It's Just Lancaster
It's Just Lancaster. I've heard that phrase too many times to count. I've said it myself a time or two. "There's no place to shop here." Well, it is just Lancaster. "There are no good restaurants here." Well it is just Lancaster. "There is nothing to do here"....well....it is just Lancaster.
I am beginning to rethink those remarks. I have been a little short-sighted. Today was a volunteer day at the Mithoff. First of all we're not talking volunteering at the petting zoo, or taking donations in downtown Lancaster. No, we are talking the dirtiest, nastiest worst form of volunteering anyone could possible dream up. Stripping plaster and then sweeping it up. And not just any plaster, 200 year old plaster. Smelly, heavy, gross plaster. With boards and nails and who knows what else mixed in with it. Sound awful? It is.
What on Earth would possess these people to do this work? It's Easter weekend! It's a nice day outside. I can only conclude that it is for love of this town, and for love of this old building. When Brad and I got this crazy idea about 10 years ago, we thought we were alone. Who else would care about an old hotel? I am amazed at the number of people who, not only care, but want to help. I've been contacted by ancestors of the owners, I've been given artifacts to display in the hotel. And people are volunteering to work. They want to have a part in this footprint of history. They want to see Lancaster thrive again, see it become vibrant with an active downtown. I was impressed and humbled by the people giving their time and energy to this project today, and I am definitely gaining a new respect for this town. There are great new restaurants in town, and Destination Downtown is thinking up creative ways to bring people into downtown. It seems like there is always a new event taking place. Things are really starting to happen in this town. It's just Lancaster...right?
 |
What on Earth would possess these people to do this work? It's Easter weekend! It's a nice day outside. I can only conclude that it is for love of this town, and for love of this old building. When Brad and I got this crazy idea about 10 years ago, we thought we were alone. Who else would care about an old hotel? I am amazed at the number of people who, not only care, but want to help. I've been contacted by ancestors of the owners, I've been given artifacts to display in the hotel. And people are volunteering to work. They want to have a part in this footprint of history. They want to see Lancaster thrive again, see it become vibrant with an active downtown. I was impressed and humbled by the people giving their time and energy to this project today, and I am definitely gaining a new respect for this town. There are great new restaurants in town, and Destination Downtown is thinking up creative ways to bring people into downtown. It seems like there is always a new event taking place. Things are really starting to happen in this town. It's just Lancaster...right?
 |
| Jon Hale (Class of 81!) getting a little dirty with the rest of the volunteers!! |
 |
| Maiher Demolition has loaned us the use of their truck for hauling debris. |
 |
| I told everyone it would have to look a whole lot worse before it would look any better. |
For all of you who have a passion for these old buildings like my husband and I do, you can also do your part in preserving two of the great homes we have in our historic district right now! The Georgian is my absolute favorite, and one that needs constant maintenance and attention. And don't forget the Sherman House. If you haven't been through these historic treasures lately, make it a point. We are also looking for new members to join us at the Fairfield Heritage Association. As we breathe new life into downtown, I can only hope we can breathe new life into our historical society as well. There are more historic buildings like the Mithoff that are in jeopardy. Becoming a member means you become aware, and awareness leads to a community that can fight back against the demolition of historic structures in our community. One of our most incredible features in Lancaster is our historic downtown. Become a member of FHA today, and become a part of a community that cares about its historic district.
