The Mt. Zion Historical Park is located near Benezette in Pennsylvania’s Wild Elk Country on the site of the former Mt. Zion Church, the first Protestant church in Elk County. The church built in 1858 was destroyed by fire in 1976

In 1998, a group of individuals decided to develop a park for the purpose of recognizing and preserving the history of the area. The park began in 2006 with a monument to the church in 2006. Since that time, many additions have been made including a walkway with granite plaques honoring local veterans from War of 1812, Spanish American War, World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and the War on Terrorism (including Gulf War, Desert Storm, and Afghanistan), and peace time veterans.

As you stroll down the path you will find memorials, plaques, and benches dedicated to Boy Scouts of America Troop 35, the famous Bucktails from the Civil War known for their marksmanship, Prisoners of War, Purple Heart Recipients, the Freedom Bell, and much more. There is also a grist from the first flutter wheel gristmill in Bennett’s Valley built in 1816 by Leonard Morey of Morey Gristmill.

The park is managed and maintained by the Mt. Zion Historical Society with support from area citizens and local organizations. They can be found online at mtzionhistoricalsociety.org.

For more information on more things to do and see in Pennsylvania’s Great Outdoors region, go to VisitPAGO.com