Lancaster County is rich in history with an array of
historical sites from cloisters to clocks. We’ve highlighted just a few in this
blog to check out during your visit. For a complete list of other historical
sites in Lancaster, visit www.discoverlancaster.com.
Ephrata Cloister, located at 632 W. Main St., Ephrata, is a
national historic landmark founded in 1732. It acted as a retreat from worldly
distractions for people who wished to have a disciplined life and prepare themselves
for Heaven. Today, guests can take tours of the Cloister grounds and get to
know its history, culture and learn about stories of its past, visiting seven original historical buildings. Tours are available and the Cloister also hosts special events and classes. For more
information, visit www.ephratacloister.org.
Robert Fulton Birthplace is located in Fulton Township,
about six miles south of Quarryville. Robert Fulton is known for his invention
of the steamboat and his art. The Pennsylvania and Museum Commission restored
and furnished the house to its original character complete with a garden.
Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum, located on Kissel Hill Road in
Lancaster, is a living history village and farm
representing the German settlers from 1740-1940. The village is home to German
artifacts and hosts many educational programs and classes. For more information, visit www.landisvalleymuseums.org.
The Rock Ford Plantation is the 18th century home
of Edward Hand and sits on 33 acres of what is now Lancaster County Central
Park. The mansion is decorated in 18th century furnishings and art.
Tours are available April 1-October 31 with special events throughout the year.
Visit www.rockfordplantation.org
for more information.
The oldest homestead in Lancaster County, the historic Hans Herr House built was in 1719 and is an original Mennonite meeting house. Now a
museum, the house collects and preserves items from European settlers. A newer
addition, a Native American longhouse, allows visitors a first-hand look at
what Native American life was like in Lancaster County. For more information
and hours, visit www.hansherr.org.
The National Watch & Clock Museum is the largest horological
museum in North America and is home to 12,000 clocks and other clock-related items
from around the world. Beyond its regular hours, the museum hosts many types of
events, including “clocktail” parties, lunch events, “Clocktoberfest” and much
more. For more information, visit https://nawcc.org/index.php/museum.
There are plenty of Inns surrounding all these amazing sites,
check out www.authenticbandb.com to
find one that fits your needs. Our innkeepers are looking forward to accommodating
you during your visit and telling you more about these great locations!