First Friday at the Ellicott House: An Evening of Art, History, and Heroes
Step inside the historic 1787 Sehner-Ellicott-von Hess House for an unforgettable evening of art and history during First Friday on May 2, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m. Located at 123 North Prince Street in the heart of downtown Lancaster, this special event features vibrant artwork by acclaimed local artist Kelby Weaver and a preview of informational panels commemorating the 200th anniversary of Marquis de Lafayette’s legendary “Farewell Tour of America.” Come celebrate the legacy of America’s favorite adopted son through art, storytelling, and the spirit of preservation.
🎨 Featured Artist: Kelby Weaver
Kelby Weaver
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the expressive and imaginative work of Lancaster-based artist Kelby Weaver. Known for his emotionally rich and visually dynamic pieces, Weaver’s artwork spans everything from portraiture to abstraction, all grounded in a love for storytelling. His newest series reinterprets myths, fairytales, and fables, examining the connections between narrative, identity, and belonging. Whether you’re drawn to bold landscapes or intricate still lifes, Weaver’s art invites you to connect, reflect, and wonder.
Learn more
You can find Weaver on Instagram, and the web.
🇫🇷 Honoring a Revolutionary Hero: Lafayette200 Display
Also on exhibit will be a special preview of informational panels commemorating the upcoming Lafayette Bicentennial, organized by the Lafayette200 Planning Committee for Chester and Lancaster Counties. The display pays tribute to the Marquis de Lafayette’s Farewell Tour of America, which will be reenacted locally July 27–29, 2025.
Known as the “Nation’s Guest,” the Marquis de Lafayette was a 19-year-old French nobleman who risked everything to join the American cause during the Revolutionary War. Wounded at Brandywine and triumphant at Yorktown, Lafayette’s legacy continued long after the war—as a champion of liberty, author of France’s Declaration of Rights, and international symbol of justice and freedom. The 1824–1825 Farewell Tour was America’s way of honoring this beloved hero one final time. Click here to learn more about the planned Lafayette200 events.
Join us this First Friday (May 2, 2025) as we celebrate the intersection of art, preservation, and patriotism—welcoming not only one of Lancaster’s most vibrant artists, but also looking ahead to a milestone moment in our shared American history.
Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County
The Trust was established in 1966 to help “stem the rapid destruction of historic properties in Lancaster County.” Through the years, the Trust has been active in helping to preserve many historic properties in Lancaster County that contribute to their respective communities as unique places for people to live, work, and play.
Our equation for success has been working for over 50 years. Look around you and know that our advocacy and direct action have resulted in saving hundreds of historic structures and other sites throughout the county. The flip side is that not everything can and should be saved. The Trust continually faces this delicate balance and works closely with all parties involved to reach an equitable decision for all. Sadly, it sometimes takes an irreplaceable loss to a community before preservation moves higher on the priority list.