Protection of historic buildings and sites in Lancaster County will be the focus of area supporters of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County who gather for the organization’s 45th annual meeting on Wednesday, November 9, at the Lancaster Country Club.
“While 2011 has been a challenging year for all non-profits, we will be celebrating our successes in protecting important historic structures that help define who we are in Lancaster County,” said Steve Dietrich, president of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County. “Much of what we have done during the year so far is provide expert input on why historical landmarks should be protected. This has been done in partnership with the Lancaster County Planning Commission, municipalities and developers. We have raised awareness of why historic preservation is important to economic development through education and outreach programs.”
Dietrich also noted that the 27 properties in the Preservation Trust’s easement program are monitored to ensure that their historic architectural integrity is not compromised. This is an on-going program with the monitoring occurring annually.
A highlight of the annual meeting will be the presentation of historic preservation awards recognizing exemplary achievements in construction, revitalization and volunteerism.
The Lancaster Country Club (circa 1913 in its present location) is itself an example of Lancaster County architecture that is being protected. The club was founded in 1900, but moved to its location on New Holland Pike after outgrowing its original Manheim Township facility at 643 Juliette Avenue across from Lancaster Catholic High School.
The cost for the dinner and program is $65 for members and $75 for non-members. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with plans to end at 9 p.m.
About the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County
Founded in 1966 to “stem the rapid destruction of historic properties in Lancaster County,” the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County’s mission is to preserve and protect Lancaster County’s rich historic and architectural character through education, advocacy and direct action. The trust has been directly involved in preserving more than three dozen important Lancaster County landmarks and has provided advice, assistance and guidance in the protection of others. The trust is a member-supported, 501(c)3 non-profit organization located in the historic Sehner-Ellicott-von Hess House (circa 1787) at 123 North Prince Street in downtown Lancaster. Visit www.hptrust.org for additional information.