Historic Rock Ford is set to host its first ever Pennsylvania long rifle event on Friday, Nov. 13, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rock Ford, 881 Rockford Road, Lancaster, near Lancaster County Central Park.

Co-presented by Rock Ford and the Kentucky Rifle Association (KRA), the event will feature displays of Pennsylvania long rifles, rifle-making demonstrations, rifle identification and food concessions.

"We're bringing in some collectors who are going to show off their collections," said Christina McSherry, executive director of Historic Rock Ford. "We have one of the best collections of Pennsylvania long rifles, so this event's a really good fit for us."

The KRA is dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Kentucky rifle, known locally as the Pennsylvania long rifle. Lancaster County was one of the top producers of the long rifle during the Revolutionary War. The historic Martin Meylin gun shop, located near the intersection of Eshelman Mill and Long Rifle Road in Willow Street, is less than 3 miles away from Rock Ford.

"It was important because the rifles were so good; they were more accurate than other muskets at the time, particularly the British muskets," McSherry explained. "These rifles became pretty critically important during the American Revolution, and long rifle makers of Lancaster were actively producing rifles for the Continental Army."

There is an admission fee to the event, which is reduced for Rock Ford Foundation members, as well as KRA members. Tickets can be purchased by visiting http://www.historicrockford.org/special-events/pennsylvania-long-rifle-event. Walk-up tickets will also be sold.

Admission to the event includes self-guided tours of the General Edward Hand Mansion and the John J. Snyder, Jr. Gallery of Early Lancaster County Decorative Arts, including the "absolute" last chance to see the "Lancaster's Revolutionaries" 2026 focus exhibit.

If you own a Revolutionary-era musket, experts at the event can help you identify it. No guns that use cartridges or are post-1830 will be permitted at the event. Attendees will also have an opportunity to purchase some of the displayed rifles.

"We really thought this event might be a good fit," McSherry said. "It's a way to expand on our existing collection, engage with the long rifle community and people interested in learning more about them."

During the event, the Rock Ford barn's concession stand will be open.

Also that week, Rock Ford will host its annual fall fundraising dinner on Thursday, Nov. 12, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Pepper Theo Cafe, 555 W. James St., Lancaster.

Each course of the meal will offer "a modern interpretation of 18th-century flavors, accompanied by stories that connect the evening to the people and history of Rock Ford," according to the Rock Ford website.

Local actor and vocalist Joshua William Green will provide his musical talents and humor throughout the night.

"The theme of the night is storytelling," McSherry explained. "(Green) will be singing some songs and telling some stories, along with some remarks by myself and our curator."

Tickets to the dinner must be purchased online at the aforementioned Rock Ford website by Monday, Nov. 2.

"This is one of our annual fundraisers," McSherry said. "All of the funds from the ticketing go directly to supporting Historic Rock Ford, everything we do and the educational programs we hold."