The Cumberland County Historical Society (CCHS), founded in 1874, is dedicated to collecting, preserving, interpreting, and promoting the rich history of Cumberland County, PA. In order to carry out its mission, the Society maintains a library, archives, museum, and lecture hall on North Pitt Street, a museum shop in the recently renovated High Street building in downtown Carlisle and the Two Mile House in South Middleton Township.
HISTORY ON HIGH SHOP
Located inside the unique History on High Shop in downtown Carlisle, the Cumberland Valley Visitors Center has everything you need to plan your trip to Cumberland Valley, PA. Stop by for valuable visitor information including directions, suggestions and recommendations from trained and friendly staff. We can provide brochures on arts and entertainment, area attractions, dining and lodging, outdoor recreation, and shopping. Open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. (33 West High Street, Carlisle, PA).
THE TWO MILE HOUSE
This magnificent Federal limestone residence was built in 1820 whenWalnut Bottom Road served as a busy thoroughfare for travelers, farmers, and merchants plying their trade. From 1826 to 1857 it served as The James Given Tavern where many a weary traveler stopped to quench their thirst, spend the night and enjoy the tavern’s simple fare. CCHS was bequeathed the property by Mrs. Mary Wheeler King in 1992 and has been the proud steward of the mansion, preserving and maintaining it ever since.
Two Mile House, so-named because of its distance from Carlisle’s town square, contains 12 rooms, 10 with fireplaces featuring Doric-style pilasters and a central panel with oval medallion. The first floor’s central passage, dominated by an open staircase, is flanked by double parlors and the kitchen boasts an enormous cooking fireplace.
The mansion including its five acres of landscaped property is on the National Register of Historic Places.