Pennsylvania’s communities are filled with special and meaningful historic places and spaces that add value to our lives and offer comfort and stability during these challenging times. Now more than ever, it is important to stay connected to our communities.

Today’s Spotlight: Cain Chamberlain

The next entry in PA SHPO’s #FavoritePAPlaces campaign is Cain Chamberlin, Executive Director of the Endless Mountains Heritage Region, talking about why the Marie Antoinette Scenic Overlook in Wyalusing, Bradford County is one of his favorite Pennsylvania places.

Marie Antoinette Scenic Outlook

The Marie Antoinette Scenic Overlook (Key #143131) was built in the late 1930s, likely as part of a Works Project Administration project. Across the road from a ca. 1936 restaurant/gift shop and motor court, the Overlook allowed travelers along State Route 6 (now Old SR 6) to stop and view the picturesque panorama of French Azilum. A bronze Pennsylvania Historical Commission plaque for “Asylum” was dedicated at this location in 1931 and another blue and gold PHMC marker for “Azilum” was dedicated here in 1947.

French Azilum (Key #078935) was settled in 1793 and survived until 1803 as a refugee colony for French Royalists fleeing France during the French Revolution. Exiles established the small village of “Asylum” (or Azilum), including La Grande Maison (the Great House) for Queen Marie Antoinette and her son, the heir to the throne of France. Several French nobleman visited French Azilum around the turn of the 19th century.

Share your #FavoritePAPlace

What older and historic places in your community are you looking forward to connecting with again?  Share your answer with us in the comments or email us at mail@pahistoricpreservation.com. 

Use the hashtags #FavoritePAPlace and/or #PreservationHappensHere and your entry just might be featured, too!

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