2026 C. Emlen Urban Award Winners
Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County Announces 2026 C. Emlen Urban Award Recipients
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County whose mission is "To preserve and protect Lancaster County's rich historic and architectural character through education, advocacy and direct action." These annual awards recognize outstanding efforts in historic preservation and are named after noted Lancaster architect Cassius Emlen Urban.
Urban was born in Conestoga in 1863 and died in 1939 after an illustrious career. His legacy is still with us as evidenced by many local landmarks. He designed such structures as the Southern Market, the Watt & Shand Building, the Griest and Hager Buildings, Thaddeus Stevens High School and many other notable buildings in Lancaster, Reading and Hershey.
This year's recipients represent a cross-section of the county and are a testament to the relevance of historic preservation in our local communities. Danielle Keperling, Executive Director of the Historic Preservation Trust notes, "The 2026 award winners from across the county underscore the vital role preservation plays in meeting today's needs. The mission of the Trust remains as essential now as it was at our founding 60 years ago."
The recipients are presented with a certificate from the Historic Preservation Trust and receive recognition at the annual C. Emlen Urban Awards Ceremony. This year's invitation-only event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20 at the Hamilton Club of Lancaster.
Here are the 2026 C. Emlen Urban Award Recipients by category:
Adaptive Reuse
Presented to projects that reuse a historic structure, site or portion of a building for purposes other than its original intent.
This category honors the following three recipients and their associated projects:
- Andrew and Jessica Morgan for The Daily Grind in Quarryille Borough
- Allison Douglas-Snyder for the Martic Forge Ironmaster Mansion Clerk House in Martic Twp.
- Wohlsen Construction for the Clay Street Low Barrier Emergency Shelter at Otterbein United Methodist Church
Community Revitalization
Presented to projects that enhance a historic district or community and improve the quality-of-life in the neighborhood.
This category recognizes two separate projects by Wohlsen Construction:
- Lancaster Station - Platform Replacement and Improvements
- YWCA Lancaster - YForward Historic Restoration and Renovation
Haubert-Heisey
Presented to an individual who has supported the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County in an exemplary manner.
This year's recipient is Jonathan Keperling of Keperling Preservation Services.
Landmark Property Rehabilitation
Presented to the owner of any landmark historic structure that demonstrates a long-term commitment to conservation and building maintenance best practices for maintaining historic significance.
This year's recipient is Lori Murphy for the Little Haus in Lancaster City.
Leadership
Presented to individuals or organizations that have demonstrated the vision, wisdom and perseverance to incorporate historic preservation in their long-range plans.
This year's award is presented posthumously to Valentino Palumbo.
Master Craftsman
Presented for meritorious efforts to save a historic structure through master-level building skills and knowledge.
- This year's recipient is Mennonite Life for the Herr House Roof at the 1719 Museum in West Lampeter Township.
Smedley
Presented to a journalist or educator who has shown extraordinary support for historic preservation in Lancaster County.
This category honors two recipients:
- Benton Webber, President of the Manheim Township Historical Society.
- Mark Stewart for his efforts with the William Wright House in Columbia Borough.
Sustainability
Presented to the owner of any historic structure or site that demonstrates a long-term commitment to conservation and building maintenance best practices for maintaining historic significance.
This category honors two recipients:
- Vivian Abel for the Solar Energy Project at Pheasant Run Farm Bed & Breakfast in Pequea Township
- Linda Mylin Ross of Marietta, PA
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