Soldiers Field
From Military Grounds to Living Landscape
A Brief History
Soldiers Field is a historic open-space preservation project of the Pennsylvania Chautauqua in Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania. Once used as military training grounds in the late 1800s, the landscape is now being thoughtfully restored as a community green space that honors both its historical significance and natural beauty.
Acquisition & Vision
As the role of the land changed, an opportunity emerged to preserve and reimagine Soldiers Field for future generations. The Pennsylvania Chautauqua acquired the property with a vision to protect its open space while transforming it into a natural, accessible landscape for the community.
The goal was not simply to maintain the land, but to thoughtfully restore it—balancing history, ecology, and community use.
Restoration & Development
Today, Soldiers Field is being carefully restored as a sustainable natural landscape.
The work focuses on:
Improving ecological health through native plantings
Creating walking paths and accessible green space
Managing stormwater and restoring natural drainage patterns
Preserving open space while enhancing usability for the community
This effort reflects a long-term commitment to stewardship—ensuring that the land continues to serve the community in a way that is both environmentally responsible and historically respectful.
Project Updates
Stay informed on the progress of Soldiers Field: