If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a property rich in history and brimming with character, now is your chance! Hess Auction Group is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire the former Postlewaite’s Tavern—one of Lancaster County’s most significant historical sites. Situated on over 75 scenic acres along the Conestoga River, this exceptional estate at 1243 Long Lane, Millersville, PA, offers a glimpse into early American history. Mark your calendar for Monday, March 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM, when this remarkable property will be auctioned. Don’t miss your opportunity to own a piece of early American heritage.
A Historic Landmark
On June 9, 1729, just days after Lancaster County was officially founded on May 29, eight magistrates—including county founders John Wright, Tobias Hendricks, and Samuel Blunston—gathered at Postlewaite’s Tavern to establish the names and boundaries of Lancaster County’s townships. This pivotal meeting laid the foundation for the county’s governance and organization.
Two months later, on August 5, 1729, the magistrates reconvened at the tavern to confirm their decisions. That same day, history was made again when Lancaster County’s first court was held within these very walls, with John Wright presiding as magistrate. Court continued to be held at Postlewaite’s Tavern throughout 1729 and 1730, with additional sessions in November 1729, February 1730, May 1730, and August 1730.
Innkeeper John Postlethwaite had hoped the land near his tavern would be chosen as the county seat due to its prime location along a major road leading to the west and the Susquehanna River. Though Lancaster ultimately became the county seat, the significance of Postlewaite’s Tavern in shaping the region’s early government remains undeniable.
The Property
Now a private home, this estate is set amid rolling farmland and wooded landscapes, seamlessly blending history with modern agricultural and recreational potential. The property includes:
- A two-story 1723 farmhouse showcasing period charm
- A limestone bank barn with dual drive-in bays
- A vintage chicken house and additional outbuildings
- Significant river frontage along the Conestoga River
Inside the perfectly preserved farmhouse, you’ll find:
- A spacious main floor with a formal living room, two kitchens, a dining room, a cozy family room with a fireplace, a powder room, a full bathroom, a large office, and a laundry room
- A winding open staircase leading to five bedrooms on the second floor
- A large walk-up attic on the third floor, perfect for storage or future renovations
- An unfinished basement housing the property’s mechanical systems
Endless Possibilities
This estate presents limitless opportunities for its future owner. Whether you envision it as a private residence, a historic bed-and-breakfast, a venue for events, or a preserved landmark for history enthusiasts, this property preserved by the Lancaster Farmland Trust offers unmatched potential. The combination of tillable farmland, wooded acreage, and riverfrontage also makes this property ideal for agriculture, outdoor recreation, or conservation.
-
1875 map of Conestoga Township, Lancaster County, PAPrice range: $27.99 through $29.99
Mark Your Calendar!
This exceptional piece of Lancaster County’s history will be auctioned on Monday, March 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM by Hess Auction Group. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to acquire a landmark that played a crucial role in the county’s early development.
For more information, visit Hess Auction Group’s website or contact them directly. Be sure to save the date and prepare to bid on a truly extraordinary property! Click here to view the auction listing.
Auction Details:
📍 Location: Postlewaite’s Tavern, Lancaster County, PA
📅 Auction Date: Monday, March 17, 2025
⏰ Time: 1:00 PM
🏡 Hosted by: Hess Auction Group
Own a legacy. Secure a future. Bid on history.
Never Miss a New Post!
Never miss a new article by signing up for email updates below. Be sure to follow Uncharted Lancaster on Facebook or Instagram for exclusive content.
-
1864 Map of Conestoga Township, Lancaster County, PAPrice range: $24.99 through $25.99
Resources
- Lancaster Township Re-telling Our History
- How Columbia and Millersville nearly became the county seat for Lancaster
- Hess Auction: Millersville 75 Acre Farm
- The “Postlethwaite’s Tavern In Conestoga Gains Notoriety” Story
Discover more from Uncharted Lancaster
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Thanks for sharing this Adam! Amazing how this property has survived time and development. What a treasure. Wonder if Jack Brubaker knows about this? Is just around the corner from him.
This home is the home of my 7th great grandparents. I wish that I had known earlier that it was up for auction
Sharon, my grandmother was a Postlethwaite that lived in Jefferson County and I have inherited a framed picture of a drawing of the tavern similar but not the same as the one at the top of this post. I believe there was a sizable number of Postlethwaite’s living in western PA but I live in Hershey and would be interested in sharing any information. Do you know who purchased the Tavern?