Rothrock Week Ceremony
Schedule
Wed, 22 Apr, 2026 at 02:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
1 W Market St, Lewistown, PA, United States, Pennsylvania 17044 | Lewistown, PA
Advertisement
A Legacy Rooted in Conservation: Honoring Dr. Joseph Rothrock During Rothrock WeekThe public is invited to attend a special ceremony honoring Dr. Joseph T. Rothrock—widely regarded as the Father of Forestry in Pennsylvania—at 2 p.m., April 22 at the Rothrock Monument in McVeytown.
The event, hosted by the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau, takes place during Rothrock Week (April 19–25), observed annually during the last full week of April, and coincides with Earth Day, making it a fitting time to recognize Rothrock’s lasting impact on conservation in the Commonwealth.
“Rothrock’s legacy is all around us—from our scenic overlooks to our forested trails,” said Jenny Landis, executive director of the visitors bureau. “By honoring Dr. Joseph Rothrock, we’re also celebrating the natural beauty that draws visitors to the Juniata River Valley and inspires people to explore it.”
To help commemorate Rothrock’s legacy, representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry will be in attendance. In 1895, Rothrock became the first commissioner of the Bureau of Forestry, helping to shape Pennsylvania’s forest conservation practices at a critical time in the state’s history.
A true Renaissance figure, Rothrock was a conservationist, botanist, physician, forester, educator, author, pioneer, and soldier. His vision and leadership laid the foundation for sustainable forestry and natural resource management in Pennsylvania, and his contributions continue to benefit generations today.
This ceremony serves as both a tribute and an opportunity to further share Rothrock’s story with residents and visitors alike. The public is welcome to attend and reflect on the importance of conservation and stewardship of our natural resources.
Advertisement
Where is it happening?
1 W Market St, Lewistown, PA, United States, Pennsylvania 17044Event Location & Nearby Stays:
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
