Architecture
Uncover Ephrata’s Rich History with October 12 Architectural Tour
Join the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County on October 12, 2024, for a journey through the architectural wonders of Ephrata. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique way to spend your Saturday, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into the buildings that have shaped the town’s character over…
Read MoreLancaster Architecture 1719-1927: Queen Anne
Because Lancaster was founded nearly 300 years ago, it is often called a colonial town. However, less than ten percent of the city’s buildings that existed in 1800 now survive. Today, in both city and county, the overall visual character is one of contrast, with the numerous eclectic styles from the long Victorian period, lasting…
Read MoreC. Emlen Urban: Southern Market Center on South Queen Street
For more than 45 years, the prolific C. Emlen Urban created many of the historic landmarks that are fundamental to the beloved character of Lancaster City. In this post, we will examine Urban’s 1888 Southern Market Center located at 100 South Queen Street. Southern Market Emlen Urban’s first major commission was the Southern Market structure.…
Read MoreLancaster County Architectural Styles: Federal
Federal circa 1790 – 1830 The term “Federal” came into popular use in the United States after the Constitution was adopted in 1789, as an expression of pride in the new nation. In architecture, it was applied to what might be called the first American style, which typified the desire for change toward a new…
Read MoreHidden Treasures: Windsor Forge Mansion
The beautiful mansion house and several outbuildings are all that remains of the colonial iron plantation known as Windsor Forges. Windsor’s two forges were located on the eastern branch of the Conestoga south of Churchtown. In 1732, John Jenkins received a land grant of 400 acres from the Penn Family. In 1742, this was sold…
Read MoreC. Emlen Urban: Unitarian Universalist Church on West Chestnut Street
For more than 45 years, the prolific C. Emlen Urban created many of the historic landmarks that are fundamental to the beloved character of Lancaster City. In this post, we will examine Urban’s 1908 West Chestnut Street church. Unitarian Universalist Church The Unitarian Universalist Church, located at the corner of Chestnut and Pine Streets, is…
Read MoreLancaster Architecture 1719-1927: Victorian Romanesque Revival
Because Lancaster was founded nearly 300 years ago, it is often called a colonial town. However, less than ten percent of the city’s buildings that existed in 1800 now survive. Today, in both city and county, the overall visual character is one of contrast, with the numerous eclectic styles from the long Victorian period, lasting…
Read MoreC. Emlen Urban: John Reynolds Middle School on West Walnut Street
For more than 45 years, the prolific Urban created many of the historic landmarks that are fundamental to the beloved character of Lancaster City. In this post, we will examine Urban’s 1929 West Walnut Street structure. The John Reynolds Middle School, located at 605 West Walnut Street, may be the last complete building C. Emlen…
Read MoreLancaster County Architectural Styles: Germanic
Germanic circa 1710 – 1770 The house known as the Herr House was built by Christian Herr in 1719 as a home for his aging parents, Hans and Elizabeth, but also as a Mennonite meetinghouse. The home was erected on a hill, in a style that could be traced back to the Roman occupation of…
Read MoreWho was C. Emlen Urban?
For more than 45 years, the prolific Urban created many of the historic landmarks that are fundamental to the beloved character of Lancaster City. This naturally begs the question, who was C. Emlen Urban? Many Lancastrians are unaware of the life-long work of celebrated local architect C. Emlen Urban. His deft eye for design transformed…
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