An Open Letter to the East Petersburg Borough Council
An Open Letter to the East Petersburg Borough Council
Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County
January 10, 2025
Dear Members of the East Petersburg Borough Council,
We extend our heartfelt thanks for your decision to deny the demolition permit for the historic circa 1903 barn located at 5890 Main Street. Your careful consideration and commitment to preserving the rich architectural and cultural heritage of East Petersburg are commendable.
This barn, a testament to East Petersburg’s history and character, represents more than just a structure—it is a piece of our shared past. Your decision not only ensures the continued existence of this important building but also sets a powerful example of how communities can balance progress with preservation. We commend your thoughtful adherence to the borough’s zoning ordinance and the thorough review process that led to this outcome.
We are especially grateful for the insights shared by the East Petersburg Historical Society, particularly their emphasis on the barn’s structural soundness and its significance to the historic streetscape. Adaptive reuse and restoration offer countless opportunities to breathe new life into structures like this, preserving their integrity while serving modern needs.
Your leadership underscores the importance of preserving Lancaster County’s historical identity, and we encourage other townships and boroughs across the region to follow East Petersburg’s example. Protecting historic structures enriches our neighborhoods, fosters a sense of community, and ensures that future generations can experience and learn from our shared history.
Thank you for your vision and dedication to historic preservation. Together, we can continue to honor Lancaster County’s storied past while building a promising future.
With gratitude,
Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County
For more information, read the East Petersburg Borough Council denies demolition of barn listed on historic survey LNP article.