Duncannon, Pennsylvania, Revitalizes Historic Tavern to Boost Outdoor Tourism

Duncannon, Pennsylvania, is undergoing a revitalization effort centered around the historic Clarks Ferry Tavern, aiming to capitalize on the town’s position as a key hub for outdoor recreation and tourism.

Located halfway along the Appalachian Trail and on the Susquehanna River, Duncannon is strategically positioned to benefit from Pennsylvania’s growing focus on outdoor recreation as an economic driver. The Friends of Clarks Ferry Tavern, a nonprofit organization, is leading the restoration of the 1798 tavern, with the goal of transforming it into a welcome and interpretive center. A $500,000 state grant from the Redevelopment Assistance Community Program and a subsequent $500,000 federal grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission have fueled the project.

Originally a ferry site in the 1760s and later a tavern opened by John Clark around 1789, the building served as a crucial stopover for pioneers traveling west. “With an ever-increasing number of pioneers heading west, the Clark family found an economic niche helping to fill the transportation and hospitality needs of these migrating people,” noted author Victor Hart in “Crossing with the Clarks.” Today, the tavern’s restoration aims to provide exhibits on local history, tourism information, and office space for the Duncannon Appalachian Trail Community Advisory Committee. The town also boasts the Doyle Hotel, offering accommodations and dining to Appalachian Trail hikers, demonstrating the existing hospitality infrastructure. Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation industry currently generates $19 billion in economic output and supports over 168,000 jobs statewide, according to the state government.

Ryan Kirkhoff, with the Friends group, emphasized the tavern’s role as a gateway to Perry County and its close collaboration with the community trail committee. Duncannon’s designation as an Appalachian Trail Community is celebrated annually with a town festival. This investment in Duncannon’s infrastructure reflects a broader trend of communities leveraging natural assets for economic growth, as highlighted by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

Officials anticipate the restored tavern will be fully operational in the coming months, further enhancing Duncannon’s appeal to both outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.