The Skippack Valley is the site of the second inland settlement of the Pennsylvania German people. Once inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans, this class will focus on the history of the original European settlers in the Skippack area. Highlighting the purchase of more than 6000 acres of land by Mathias Van Bebber in 1702, a map of the original settlers, the educational contributions of Christopher Dock, revolutionary war involvement, stage coach transportation, printing, and the trolley line, Walt Johnson will provide us with stories and details of Skippack’s past.

About the instructor: Walt Johnson

Walt Johnson attended Collegeville – Trappe High School, Ursinus College, and later achieved a master’s degree in mathematics from Ohio State University. He taught for 25 years at Indian Valley Junior High School and then 13 years at the Souderton Area High School. He was also an associate professor at Ursinus College in the education department for five years. After retiring from being a math teacher, Walt became interested in the history of the local area. He currently serves with the Skippack Historical Society as a historian and chairman of “Washington’s Encampment,” a living history event held in the village of Skippack. He enjoys spending his time doing lawn work, playing golf, giving tours at the IdenHofen Farmstead, and sharing stories of local history of the area.