Preserve the Wenger Feed Mill in Ephrata
The Wenger Feed Mill at 27 E Main Street—a contributing building in the Ephrata Commercial Historic District—is threatened with demolition. Built as part of the Sener Brothers Lumber and Coal Yard, this brick warehouse survived the 1924 fire and continues to tell the story of Ephrata’s resilience.
The Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County urges adaptive reuse rather than demolition—for the sake of Ephrata’s history and the vitality of its downtown.
📍 Ephrata Borough Hall, 124 S State Street
If you are unable to attend, please send your concerns (sample text below) to zrineer@ephrataboro.org for the Zoning Hearing Board.
Join your voice for preservation.
Sample Email
Subject: Support for Adaptive Reuse of the Wenger Feed Mill – 27 E Main Street, Ephrata
Dear Members of the Zoning Hearing Board,
I am writing to urge the Board to oppose the demolition of the Wenger Feed Mill at 27 E Main Street and to encourage adaptive reuse of this important historic structure.
The Wenger Feed Mill is a contributing building within the Ephrata Commercial Historic District, originally part of the Sener Brothers Lumber and Coal Yard. The brick warehouse survived the 1924 fire that devastated much of the area, and it stands today as a tangible link to Ephrata’s industrial and commercial heritage.
Beyond its historical importance, adaptive reuse of historic buildings like this one offers measurable economic benefits. Preserving and repurposing existing structures attracts investment, supports small business growth, and enhances the unique character that draws residents and visitors to downtown Ephrata. Across Lancaster County, we’ve seen how thoughtfully reused historic buildings strengthen local economies, increase property values, and contribute to sustainable community development.
I urge the Board to support preservation and encourage Ephrata National Bank to pursue an adaptive reuse solution that both honors Ephrata’s past and ensures a vibrant, resilient downtown for the future.
Thank you for your consideration and for your commitment to thoughtful community planning.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address or Neighborhood, optional]
[Your Contact Information, optional]