Duffy built his home near where the Great Shamokin Path crossed Larrys Creek. This path became an important road in the settlement of the West Branch Susquehanna Valley. Early pioneers trekked up the road as they continued to move ever westward. Duffy opened an inn that soon became an important stopping point for the pioneers. Duffy was unable to enjoy his prominence for very long. Late one evening, a pack of wolves attacked him along the Great Shamokin Path, and while he fended them off and returned home, he was weakened by the cold and the effort of defending himself. He came down with a severe and fatal cold.