Get ready to dive into an evening of history, art, and adventure at the beautiful 1787 Sehner-Ellicott-von Hess House in downtown Lancaster. Join me on Friday, May 3, 2023, from 5 to 8 p.m. for a unique First Friday open house hosted by the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County and featuring Addvent Lancaster.
I’ll be running a special Mini-Adventure throughout downtown Lancaster, perfect for locals and visitors alike looking to discover our city’s hidden gems. With fantastic prizes, including a choice of a 1.25″ soft enamel pin, a 3″ embroidered patch, or a 1.18″ metal replica Spanish Doubloon, this adventure is sure to add an extra thrill to your evening! Click here to get a head start on the First Friday Mini-Adventure!
Addvent Lancaster’s First Friday Exhibition & Poster Sale
Addvent Lancaster is thrilled to showcase the Art of Adventure with an exclusive exhibition featuring all of our collaborating artists. This event is a perfect spot for art lovers to purchase unique posters, art prints, cards, and a variety of new products, all while enjoying the creative pulse of Lancaster.
Evening Entertainment and Fundraiser
The evening doesn’t end with art. Stay and enjoy refreshments, including Italian wine and cocktails served by the “Keystone Italian Project.” This delightful offering is part of a fundraiser for their annual L’Italia Festival in Lititz, PA. Immerse yourself in the cultural vibrancy of Lancaster with live performances set in the picturesque garden of the Ellicott House.
Continue the Experience
If your schedule won’t allow you to join us on Friday, worry not. Addvent Lancaster extends the artistic celebration into the weekend during Lancaster’s Spring Art Walk. Visit us on Saturday and Sunday to continue exploring the exhibition, available as long as supplies last.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to engage with Lancaster’s rich history and vibrant cultural scene in one of the city’s most historic buildings. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or adventure seeker, this First Friday promises something special for everyone. I hope to see you there!
Adventure Awaits!
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Brief History of the Sehner-Ellicott-von Hess House
The building was the home of Andrew Ellicott, the first U.S. Surveyor General who famously helped map the western territories and the District of Columbia. It was in this house that Ellicott, commissioned by U.S. President Thomas Jefferson, taught Meriwether Lewis surveying techniques for the Lewis & Clark Expedition of western territories. Ellicott occupied the house from 1801 until he died in 1813.
The home is a beautiful example of early American architecture, built by Gottlieb Sehner and beautifully renovated by the Louise Steinman von Hess Foundation from 1978 to 1981. The Sehner family also helped to build Lancaster’s Masonic Hall in 1795 and the Fulton Opera House in 1852. Click here for a more detailed history of the house.
Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County
The Trust was established in 1966 to help “stem the rapid destruction of historic properties in Lancaster County.” Through the years, the Trust has been active in preserving many historic properties in Lancaster County that contribute to their respective communities as unique places for people to live, work, and play.
Their equation for success has been working for over 50 years. Look around you and know that our advocacy and direct action have resulted in saving hundreds of historic structures and other sites throughout the county. The flip side is that not everything can and should be saved. The Trust continually faces this delicate balance and works closely with all parties involved to reach an equitable decision for all. Sadly, it sometimes takes an irreplaceable loss to a community before preservation moves higher on the priority list.
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1864 Map of the City of Lancaster, Pennsylvania$21.99 – $25.99
Follow the Trust on Facebook for more architectural information and history from all over Lancaster County. Learn more at their website, or better yet, consider becoming a member of the Trust today.
Where to Go
The Sehner-Ellicott-von Hess House is located in the heart of Gallery Row in downtown Lancaster at 123 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA.
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