elkinweir is the 162-acre headquarters and educational center of Green Valleys Association. Its former owners, Everett and Grace Rodebaugh, conveyed it in 1997 to ensure the continued use of the property as a site to observe and learn from nature. Everett Rodebaugh, founder of GVA, and his wife Grace purchased the land during the Depression when it was a declining farm. They set about restoring the land by reestablishing native trees and meadows. A series of ponds was constructed in the valley. The acquisition of an entire nursery provided the beginning of formal planting around the house. This unique combination of horticultural and natural elements has transformed Welkinweir into the extraordinary sanctuary one finds today. Welkinweir has become a popular arboretum in the Delaware Valley, featuring many trails and walks, plus five rare Franklinia trees ( Franklinia alatamaha ). So popular in fact, that it was admitted to The Gardens Collaborative of Philadelphia in 1998—“America’s Most Beautiful Gardens.” Director Victoria Laubach always invests an extra effort each spring to ensure the gardens “rise” to expectation.
			Welkinweir's famous Azalea Trail in full bloom is one of the highlights of the nature filled estate.
	Learning about all things natural, Camp Welkinweir kids learn about sound in a drum circle.
			The Welkinweir house is a classic stone estate with magnificent views of ponds and beautiful landscapes.
	Christmas at Welkinweir House is a special time. The house's interior is inviting and charming all year long.
			Independent exploration of the streams and ponds throughout Welkinweir is a favorite activity for people of all ages.
	Welkinweir's interpretive habitat trail educates day hikers and visitors.
			Pennsylvania's Horseshoe Trail starts in Valley Forge Park and runs through Welkinweir.
	The tiered ponds at Welkinweir offer beautiful views all year long.