October 18: An Evening at Lancaster Theological Seminary’s Dietz Refectory

Raise a Glass to Preservation!

If you know me, you know I’m a big believer in preserving the stories, places, and architecture that make Lancaster County so special. That’s why Uncharted Lancaster is proud to sponsor an upcoming event with the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County inside one of the city’s remarkable historic spaces: the Dietz Refectory at Lancaster Theological Seminary.

On Saturday, October 18, 2025, I’ll be there in person, raising a glass with friends old and new. And here’s the best part—your first drink is on Uncharted Lancaster. Because let’s be honest, no great story ever started with a salad.

A Seminary with a Story

Lancaster Theological Seminary has been shaping lives for two centuries. Founded in 1825 by the German Reformed Church, the school started humbly in Carlisle with just one professor, five students, and a library of 200 books. After stops in York and Mercersburg—where the Seminary became known for the bold and influential Mercersburg Theology, which championed sacraments and tradition over revivalist trends—it finally set down permanent roots in Lancaster in 1871.

Over the decades, the Seminary evolved alongside the churches it served. In 1934, it joined the Evangelical and Reformed Church, and by 1957, it was part of the newly formed United Church of Christ. Today, Lancaster Theological Seminary stands as a bicentennial institution, celebrating 200 years of preparing ministers, thinkers, and leaders while embracing an open, inclusive, and ecumenical vision.

A Tudor Revival Treasure

It was during a period of confidence and growth that the Seminary built the Dietz Refectory in 1916. Designed in the Tudor Revival style, the hall still stuns visitors with its soaring timber trusses, glowing stained glass, and original dining tables. The true showstoppers, though, are the two massive fireplaces faced with handcrafted Mercer tiles. Inspired by Pennsylvania German stove plates, each tile tells its own story—transforming the fireplaces into works of art.

Even the stained glass holds a tale. The medallions and deep green panes came from Belgian greenhouses shattered during World War I. Salvaged and reimagined, they give the room an atmosphere that is both historic and hauntingly beautiful. In every detail, the Refectory reflects the Seminary’s mix of reverence for history and creative vision for the future.

An Evening to Remember

This special night is all about mingling, exploring, and savoring the best of Lancaster’s history and hospitality. Here’s what you can expect:

• Heavy hors d’oeuvres from Cracked Pepper Catering.
• Your first round of drinks courtesy of Uncharted Lancaster.
• A chance to admire the two extraordinary Mercer fireplaces.
• A behind-the-scenes look at Seminary spaces that are rarely open to the public.

It’s the kind of event that feels part cocktail party, part history adventure—perfect for anyone who loves architecture, stories, and good company.

Event Details

📍 Location: Dietz Refectory, Lancaster Theological Seminary, 555 West James Street, Lancaster, PA 17603
📅 Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
⏰ Time: 5:30 – 8:30 pm
🎟️ Click here to reserve your spot.

Opportunities like this don’t come around often. I’d love for you to join me in celebrating Lancaster’s history and supporting the Trust’s vital preservation work. Raise a glass, savor the stories, and let’s make it a night to remember.

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