History of Lancaster

The history of Lancaster, one of the oldest inland cities in the USA, begins in the first half of the 18th century. Initially, the settlement, founded by German immigrants in 1709, was known as Hickory Town. The city was officially planned in 1730 and soon received its current name in honour of the English city of Lancaster, the birthplace of one of its influential residents, John Wright.

Key Factors of Development

Several important circumstances contributed to Lancaster's prosperity:

• Geographic Location: Situated in the heart of fertile lands, the city quickly became a vital agricultural and trading centre. Its importance as a transport hub was strengthened with the opening of the country's first paved road in 1795, which connected it to Philadelphia.
• Political Role: Lancaster played a notable role in the country's history. On 27 September 1777, during the War of Independence, it became the capital of the American colonies for one day when the Continental Congress took refuge here. Later, from 1799 to 1812, the city held the status of the capital of the state of Pennsylvania.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

From the very beginning, the city's cultural and economic character was quite distinctive:

• Craftsmanship: The city became famous as a manufacturing centre. During the Revolutionary War, it was an essential supplier of ammunition for the army. It was here that the famous Pennsylvania rifle was developed, and the legendary "Conestoga" covered wagons were created.
• Cultural Heritage: The population was primarily formed by the so-called "Pennsylvania Dutch" (from the German "Deutsch"), who brought their traditions to agriculture, crafts, and daily life. Their influence, along with the proximity to the oldest Amish settlements, formed a unique cultural landscape in the region that is still felt today.

Key Dates in the History of Lancaster

• 1709 — The first European settlers, primarily German immigrants, arrive in the area then known as Hickory Town.
• 10 May 1729 — The settlement becomes the administrative centre of the newly formed Lancaster County.
• 1730 — The city is officially planned and renamed Lancaster in honour of the English city from which one of the founders, John Wright, hailed.
• 1742 — Lancaster receives borough status.
• 1777, 27 September — Lancaster becomes the capital of the American colonies for one day as the Continental Congress takes refuge here from British troops.
• 1795 — The Philadelphia-Lancaster Turnpike, the first paved road in the USA, opens, strengthening its status as a major transport hub.
• 1799–1812 — Lancaster serves as the capital of the state of Pennsylvania.
• 1818, 10 March — Lancaster officially receives the status of a chartered city.
• 1851 — The current Lancaster County Prison, known as "Lancaster Castle", is built.
• 1856 — Lancaster native James Buchanan is elected the 15th President of the USA.
• 1924 — The city receives third-class city status in accordance with Pennsylvania state law.
• 2000 — Lancaster receives the prestigious "All-America City" award, noting the community's success in solving local issues.

Cultural and Industrial Milestones of Lancaster

Beyond its role in political history, Lancaster is known as a centre of innovation, education, and cultural heritage. Key milestones in its development demonstrate how the city became not only an industrial giant of its time but also a guardian of unique traditions and architectural treasures.

• 1787 — Franklin College is founded, named after Benjamin Franklin. Later, merging with Marshall College, it became the prestigious Franklin and Marshall College, one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the USA.
• 1852 — Fulton Hall opens, named after steamboat inventor Robert Fulton, a Lancaster native. Today, this building is known as the Fulton Opera House and is considered one of the oldest continuously operating theatres in the country.
• 1889 — The current Central Market building is constructed, although the market itself has existed on this site since the 1730s. It is the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in the United States and an important centre of social life.
• 1892 — The Hamilton Watch Company is founded in Lancaster. Its Broadway Limited pocket watches quickly gained a reputation as the "Watch of Railroad Accuracy", helping to standardise time and improve safety on US railways.
• Mid-20th Century — Lancaster County becomes a popular tourist destination due to interest in the culture and lifestyle of the Amish and Mennonite communities. This unique type of tourism introduces visitors to the traditional way of life, crafts, and agriculture of "Amish Country".
• 2001 — The historic centre of Lancaster is recognised as one of the largest National Historic Districts in the USA. This marked a significant milestone in efforts to preserve the city's rich architectural heritage, spanning styles from the colonial era to the Victorian period.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architecture of Lancaster represents a unique chronicle of American urban planning, where austere colonial structures and lavish Victorian facades intertwine harmoniously. The city is famous for the extensive use of red brick, which gives its streets a warm and recognisable colour. The historic city centre has preserved its original layout, radiating from the central Penn Square, laid out as early as 1730.

Colonial Period and Federal Style (18th – Early 19th Century)

The earliest surviving buildings in the city date back to the era when the USA was just gaining independence. This period is characterised by restraint, symmetry, and functionality.

• Georgian Style and Federal Style: Dominated residential and public construction. Buildings are distinguished by strict lines, brickwork, and classical proportions. A striking example is the Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity, whose spire, inspired by the works of Christopher Wren, is one of the dominants of the city skyline.

Victorian Era and Industrial Flourishing (Mid – Late 19th Century)

With the growth of industry, the city experienced a construction boom that brought diversity and decorativeness to its appearance. It was during this time that the famous neighbourhoods with dense row-house construction were formed.

• Italianate Style: Became extremely popular for commercial buildings and urban mansions. Characteristic features include wide cornices with brackets and tall arched windows. A magnificent example is the Fulton Opera House building.
• Second Empire and Queen Anne: These styles added mansard roofs, turrets, and rich decor to the city, which is especially noticeable in the residential areas surrounding the centre.
• Gothic Revival: Manifested in church architecture and monuments. The Soldiers and Sailors Monument on Penn Square is executed in this majestic style.

Eclecticism and Early 20th Century

At the turn of the century, architects turned to monumental forms of the past to emphasise the significance of public institutions.

• Romanesque Revival: The most iconic building of this trend is the Central Market. Its massive brick walls, arched openings, and terracotta roof create a sense of reliability and antiquity.
• Beaux-Arts: The influence of the French school is noticeable in the railway station building and some administrative structures, distinguished by pomp and classical decor.

Adaptation and Modernity

In the 20th and 21st centuries, Lancaster chose the path of carefully preserving its heritage. Instead of the mass demolition of old buildings, the practice of adaptive reuse flourishes here. Former industrial giants, such as old tobacco warehouses and cork factories (for example, the Cork Factory complex), have been converted into stylish hotels, lofts, and art spaces, preserving the industrial spirit of the city in a modern context.

Notable Figures Associated with Lancaster

• James Buchanan (1791–1868) — The 15th President of the USA, whose political career preceded the Civil War. He lived in Lancaster for over 50 years, and his former estate, Wheatland, is today one of the city's main historical attractions.
• Thaddeus Stevens (1792–1868) — An influential congressman, lawyer, and one of the leaders of the Radical Republicans during the Civil War and Reconstruction. He was a fierce fighter for the abolition of slavery and for civil rights. Stevens lived and practised law in Lancaster, where he was buried.
• Robert Fulton (1765–1815) — An engineer and inventor credited with creating the first commercially successful steamboat. Fulton was born in Lancaster County, and his early years spent here influenced his interest in mechanics.
• Charles Demuth (1883–1935) — A prominent American modernist painter and one of the founders of Precisionism. He was born and lived most of his life in Lancaster, and many of his works were inspired by the architecture and landscapes of his hometown.
• Richard "Dick" Winters (1918–2011) — A US Army officer who gained fame during World War II as the commander of "Easy" Company of the 101st Airborne Division. His story formed the basis of the book and mini-series "Band of Brothers". Winters moved to Lancaster as a child and graduated from school here.
• Jonathan Groff (born 1985) — A contemporary American actor and singer. He received wide acclaim for his roles on Broadway, including in the musicals "Hamilton" and "Spring Awakening", as well as for voicing the character Kristoff in the Disney animated film "Frozen". Groff was born and raised in Lancaster.