Aspen trees naturally grow in groves, rather than as individual trees. An aspen grove will have trees at all stages of life, from sprouting shoots to mature specimens, all connected underground by a large system of interconnected roots. While not native to Western PA (they don't like the heat of our summers) this unique grove of trees was planted by members of the Morosini Family some 60 years ago to close off the old mine access.
Please keep in mind that the house at the end of the road is NOT part of the reserve. Please do not approach the house or residents. Additionally, please do not use the access trails coming onto the mowed trails around the fields from private homes.
There are no public facilities on the reserve, however there are a few fast food restaurants within 2 miles of the location.
The Morosini Reserve has a rich history, first as a pass-through/hunting area for the regional Native Americans, then as active farmland from the early 1800s through the 1970s. It was part of the William Penn Charter, with the first warranty deed granted to a Revolutionary War soldier named Hugh Means. The McQuaide Family took possession in the late 1790s, where it remained until the 1920s. It then was known as the JJ Morosini Farm until JJ's nephew, Bill, decided that he would prefer that the land be protected rather than developed. His widow, Doris, contacted Westmoreland Conservancy and left us this beautiful land in her will. Within this 183-acre parcel there are remnants of an old stone quarry, an old coal mine, apple orchards, a pond constructed in the 1930s, OLD trees, and wonderful reminders of farm life. Enjoy the ghosts!