Come Explore Lancaster’s History & Heritage
Lancaster, Pennsylvania has an interesting history dating back to the 1700’s. Educational opportunities await students and adults alike who want to learn more about the history and culture of early American life.
Amish, Mennonite, Brethren, and other religious groups sought freedom from persecution in Europe and came to this country. Many settled in what would eventually become Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. To this day, Lancaster County is still known as the Amish Country. The oldest surviving homestead in Lancaster County dates back to 1719.
During colonial times Lancaster was the largest inland city in America. Lancaster even served as the nation’s capital for one day during the Revolutionary War when British forces threatened the colonial capital of Philadelphia.
The Pennsylvania Long Rifle, later known as the Kentucky Rifle, was first produced here in Lancaster County in the early 1700’s. The Conestoga Wagon Was also first developed in Lancaster County to haul cargo eastward to Philadelphia and often in wagon trains across the Appalachian Mountains to Pittsburgh and Ohio. Prominent Lancastrians included Robert Fulton, the developer of the steamboat, Thaddeus Stevens, a prominent member of Congress during the Civil War, and and former President James Buchanan.
- Amish Attractions – Lancaster County includes the largest Amish settlement in the world. Come explore the fascinating history, faith, and culture of our Amish neighbors.
- Covered Bridges – once popular across rural America, there are still 28 covered bridges in Lancaster County, more than anywhere else.
- Factory Tours – You can enjoy some fascinating factory tours here from food manufacturers, furniture and motorcycle manufacturing, and full-size railroad engine repairs.
- Farmers Markets – Enjoy fresh baked goods, farm-fresh produce, cheese and meats, and unique gifts from a number of local farmers markets, including the oldest continually operating farmers market in the country.
- Field Trips – A number of local destinations offer unique field trip opportunities to young people.
- Historic Sites – Tour fascinating historic sites and historic homes, some dating back to the 1700’s.
- Museums – Numerous museums are located here as well as a couple children’s museums which are loved by kids.
- Railroad Attractions – Lancaster is home to intricate model train museums and an historic train museum. You can even climb aboard a train pulled by a historic steam engine or by a replica of Thomas the Tank.
- Tours – Enjoy fascinating guided tours of this peaceful, beautiful countryside. You can even take a tour aboard an Amish buggy or take a walking tour of historic downtown Lancaster.
