history of the property
The Sanctuary acreage was originally settled in the 1840s by German settlers. Since then, it has been used for farming, orchards, a Horticulturist’s growing operation for hosta plants, a Christmas tree farm, a hunter’s retreat, and a family home for foster children.
Mineral springs have provided pristine water to the property for decades, with multiple old functional spring houses still standing around the property. The springs provide pure delicious cleansing well water to all the residents of the land.
The surrounding area, like much of Western Maryland and West Virginia, was extracted for its coal and lumber for decades. Most of the coal mining activity has ceased in the area, however the timber companies are still quite active.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT:
We acknowledge that Roots to Sky Sanctuary is housed on sacred Shawandassee Tula and Massawomeck land.
Shawandassee Tula land was stewarded by members of the Shawnee tribe, while Massawomeck land was stewarded by members of the Massawomeck tribe, part of the Iroquois Nation.
We recognize the elders of the past, present and emerging.
We are heart-based humans of different origins humbly uniting to decolonize our relationship to land.