Introduction to Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster is located in the south-central portion of Pennsylvania, situated near the Conestoga River in Lancaster County. The city is part of the Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The Amish community plays a major role in the county with agriculture, various cottage industries and tourism. Mennonite communities are also located in the area. The region is known for livestock, apples, grains and dairy products. The city contains a wide variety of architectural styles represented in its numerous historic buildings.
History
The town was created by English shires. William Penn played a significant role in establishing the city in 1683. Lancaster was recognized as a townstead in 1730 by the governor of Pennsylvania. The vast majority of the land during this period was the property of Andrew Hamilton. The Continental Congress held meetings in Lancaster in 1777 and it was the capital of the state of Pennsylvania from 1799 to 1813.
John Wright named the town Lancaster in tribute to Lancaster, England where he earlier resided. The town became known as the "Red Rose City" due to its connection with Lancaster, England. The area became a chartered city in the year 1818. While the Revolutionary War was taking place, Lancaster served as the capital for the colonies and was a prominent munitions location.
Transportation
The Red Rose Transit Authority offers bus service for the community. Amtrak provides transportation at the Lancaster Train Station. The town is home to the Lancaster Airport.
Historic Landmarks
- Hamilton Watch Company
- Fulton Opera House
- Rock Ford Plantation
- W.W. Griest Building
- J.P. McCaskey High School
- Wheatland
Attractions
- Elizabethtown College includes a center which focuses on the Plain communities in the United States such as the Amish
- The historic site, Ephrata Cloister features 18th century structures Franklin and Marshall College
- National Watch and Clock Museum
- Strasburg Railroad offers rides on restored passenger cars and travels through Amish country
- Plain and Fancy Farm provides an excellent tour of the Amish community
- Antiques Capital is a prominent location for antique dealers and features numerous attractions
- Bird-in-Hand Village
- Intercourse Merchants Association Group is a major business center for Amish and other residents and is very popular with tourists
- Lititz is a historic village
- Central Market
- Demuth Museum
- Lancaster Cultural History Museum
- Lancaster Museum of Art
- Fulton Theatre is a National Historic Landmark which features Broadway musicals and other productions
Activities
- Amish Buggy Rides
- Amish Village features a 1840's farm house Choo Choo Barn - Traintown U.S.A. features miniatures depicting Lancaster County and America
- Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park
- Landis Valley Museum is the biggest Dutch Living History Farm and Village in the United States
