Lancaster County, located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, has a rich and diverse history. The area was initially inhabited by the Susquehannock tribe before European settlers, primarily from the Palatinate region of Germany, arrived in the early 18th century. The county was officially formed on May 10, 1729, from part of Chester County and named after Lancashire in England. Its fertile soil made it a lucrative area for agriculture, shaping its early economy, and it remains known for its thriving farming community, particularly the Amish and Mennonites who continue to live much as their ancestors did, eschewing modern conveniences and maintaining a focus on community and tradition.

The city of Lancaster, the county seat, was chartered in 1742 and served as the U.S. capital for one day during the American Revolution when the Continental Congress fled from Philadelphia. Lancaster County was also a key player in the Industrial Revolution, hosting numerous mills and factories. The county’s location made it a significant transportation hub, particularly for the railroad industry, and today, sites like the Strasburg Rail Road and the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania bear witness to that important facet of its past.

Present-day Lancaster County is a blend of the historic and the contemporary. It’s still home to America’s oldest Amish settlement, where visitors can step back in time to witness a slower pace of life, but it’s also a vibrant cultural center, known for its arts scene, eclectic shops, microbreweries, and a range of dining options. It’s this juxtaposition of past and present that makes Lancaster County a unique and engaging destination for residents and visitors alike.