If you’re looking for information about visiting Scripture Rocks Heritage Park in Jefferson County, you’re in the right place!
Scripture Rocks Heritage Park is a 4.5-acre natural area that is home to 65 boulders engraved by Douglas M. Stahlman between 1910 and 1913, as part of his personal religious calling.
Directions | Hours | Admission Fees
Scripture Rocks Heritage Park is located at 560, 610, PA-28, Brookville, PA 15825; 1/8-mile south of I-80 exit 81.
Maintained by the Jefferson County Historical Society, Scripture Rocks Heritage Park is open from sunrise until sunset.
Admission to the park is free, but for a donation of $1.00 you can pick up a trail guide at a self-serve kiosk near the trailhead.
Not only does the trail guide show you where all of the inscribed rocks are within the park, but the inscriptions on all of the rocks have been transcribed in the book as well.
This in and of itself is extremely valuable information, as many of the rocks are hard to read after being exposed to the elements for more than 100 years.
History of Scripture Rocks
Douglas Stahlman’s journey to creating these unique rock inscriptions began with a series of personal tragedies.
Nine years before he started his carvings, while living in Valparaiso, Indiana, his wife died from complications after the birth of their second child.
Stahlman, a devout believer in “faith healing,” had dismissed the doctor caring for her.
After her death, he was declared insane, briefly incarcerated, and his children were placed in the custody of his wife’s family.
His mother secured his release from jail and brought him back to Pennsylvania, but the death of his wife and the loss of his sons haunted him for the rest of his life.
Seeking solace, Stahlman prayed for guidance and felt spiritually drawn to a wooded area just outside of Brookville.
Here, he found a large rock, which he used as a place of prayer, dedicating it as Altar Rock in March 1909 after praying on it hundreds of times between 1907 and 1908.
He began conducting open-air worship services at Altar Rock, attracting as many as seventy people.
A few years later, he built a frame, walls, and a roof around it, and this structure became his home.
While living hermit-like in his cabin on Altar Rock, Stahlman worked on his carvings and also penned a manuscript titled The Dedicated Rocks.
You can view the scanned version of this manuscript, in Stahlman’s own handwriting, on the Scripture Rocks OFFICIAL WEBSITE.
In 1915, Stahlman was declared insane by a local commission and was transferred to Dixmont State Hospital, where he spent the last 27 years of his life, passing away on August 26, 1942.
What You’ll See at Scripture Rocks Heritage Park
Today, visitors to Scripture Rocks Heritage Park can find Altar Rock near the center of the park, surrounded by the 65 engraved boulders.
These boulders display a range of inscriptions, from single words to lengthy Bible verses, reflecting Stahlman’s intense religious fervor and personal beliefs.
Interestingly, his early carvings were generally positive and hopeful, whereas his later works, including the infamous Death Rock, took on a much more pessimistic tone, mirroring his deepening despair.
The park, which was created in 2015, is not only a place of historical and religious significance but also a site of natural beauty.
It features a small prehistoric Native American rock shelter and a 1.5-mile round trip hiking trail that winds through the park.
Interpretive signage along the trail provides visitors with context and background information about Stahlman’s life and the significance of his work.
A pollinator garden and small pond near the parking area adding to the picturesque scenery.
A picnic pavilion is located adjacent to the parking area, as is a port-o-potty.
Final Thoughts
Scripture Rocks Heritage Park is a testament to the life and beliefs of Douglas M. Stahlman.
The park’s combination of historical intrigue, spiritual reflection, and natural beauty makes it a worthwhile destination for anyone looking to explore a unique chapter of local history.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a peaceful place for reflection, Scripture Rocks Heritage Park offers a unique and enriching experience.
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Find even more great spots to explore in Jefferson County and all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!
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