Lititz

Lititz is nestled in the heart land of rich farming country in Lancaster County. The earliest settlers were Swiss-German Mennonites in 1710 who fled religious persecution in Europe. They were quickly followed by the Moravians and Amish. In Lititz they built old stone mills, wooden covered bridges and log homes. Many 18th Century Lititz buildings have been wonderfully restored and can be enjoyed as you walk through town. Numerous local farms have been owned perpetually by the same families for 200 years.

Lancaster County has thrived over the years and now is home to people who speak over 26 different languages. A strong work ethic and a boundless spirit of generosity from individuals and community service organizations has maintained and strengthened the economy and ecology of Lititz.   (summary by Shop Lititz)

West Hempfield Township

This gorgeous area lies between the Susquehanna River on the west and East Hempfield Township on the east.  According to available information, West Hempfield Township was settled in 1718-1720 by an overflow of Scotch-Irish pioneers from the Donegal region, and Germans from the East Hempfield area. Since West Hempfield is traversed geologically by a limestone belt which has weathered sufficiently to produce a soil compatible with excellence in farming, it initially became a rich agricultural district with some of the finest farms in the county. A quartzite ridge cuts a wedge through the center of West Hempfield Township and had significant bearing on the historical aspects of the township during the 19th century.  Iron ore was mined in open pits in the early part of the 1800's. Furnaces processed the ore and one of the major furnaces was located along the Susquehanna River. The archaeological remains of this furnace and related buildings can be seen at the Chickies Rock County Park. The abandoned mine pits dot West Hempfield Township near the village of Ironville. The abandoned mines filled with water from springs and rainwater. Grubb Lake, named after one of the prosperous iron families, is the largest of these abandoned mine pits, and served as the source of Mountville Borough’s water supply for many years up to 1998. Today, the site is being studied for its potential use as a natural park.

West Hempfield Township is 17.2 square miles in area, which includes the Susquehanna River. The current population is nearly 15,000, and has grown most dramatically in the 1980's, slowing somewhat during the 1990's. This growth and the preservation of farmland have been major challenges. Some strides have been made to control growth and to direct it to appropriate areas in order to preserve farmland and natural areas.

East Hempfield Township

Nestled between West Hempfield Township and Manheim Township, East Hempfield Township contains delightful regions of farmland, rolling hills with beautiful views, peaceful suburban neighborhoods and bustling shopping areas.  The borough of East Petersburg, PA is geographically located with the boundaries of East Hempfield, but is it's own municipality.  Click Here to see the official township website

East Petersburg

East Petersburg Borough is located three miles northwest of Lancaster and has a population of about 4500.  It offers both new and established homes.  Most of the homes are in housing developments with the exception of the farms and farmettes that exist in this area.  All major conveniences can be realized without having to venture far from the home.  One of the highlights near the Borough is Roots Market located on Graystone Road just off Route 72 which is the major artery passing through the center of town.  The market is open year round every Tuesday from 9am to 9pm and just about everything imaginable can be found there.  It attracts tourists as well as the local people.

Manheim Township has developed from a community of farmland and a handful of small villages to one of the County's fastest growing suburban townships. The Township occupies approximately 23 square miles and is located in the center of Lancaster County, just north of the City of Lancaster. The developed areas in Manheim Township are predominantly residential, with industrial and commercial activity prevalent near the City of Lancaster, and agriculture dominating the northeastern section of Manheim Township. 

Manheim Township PA Video Tour

There are several popular communites within Manheim Township, such as:

• Grandview Heights - A charming neighborhood of classic brick homes of all sizes near Lancaster City.

• Wetherburn

• Cobblestone Court

• Valleybrook

• BelAir

Lancaster City

One of the nation's oldest and most historic cities, Lancaster boasts a thriving Central Market, tree-lined avenues, a new pro baseball stadium and several distinguished colleges.  Visit the city's home page to see all that Lancaster has to offer.

Buchanan Park Video Tour - Lancaster City PA