Stevens & Smith Historical Site

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The Possibilities: A Steady Stream Of Visitors

The new educational and interpretive complex will also generate interest outside the local region. Because of its emphasis on civil rights, equality and freedom, it is likely to draw visitors from around the country – and even the world. More than eight million people visit Lancaster County each year, and a recent survey by the Pennsylvania Dutch Convention & Visitors Bureau revealed that an impressive 52 percent of potential heritage visitors to Lancaster County would be “very likely” to visit a facility that explores civil rights and the U.S. Constitution. An independent estimate indicates that the historic precinct would attract between 75,000 and 80,000 visitors each year. The economic benefits from such a steady stream of visitors would touch both city businesses and residents, and also help enhance Lancaster’s reputation as an important historic location.

The Stevens Smith Historic Site will give our community a sense of pride that we had such a great man living among us, and will be another downtown destination that will bring animation to the streets and economic benefits to local people.

- Judy Ware, Lancaster community volunteer

Closer to Equality — Capital Campaign

We have successfully completed Phase I of our campaign to restore historic buildings once containing the home, law office and businesses belonging to Thaddeus Stevens and Lydia Hamilton Smith and to create rough museum space to house the main interpretive and educational complex. We are now embarking on Phase II of that effort which will complete the interiors and create exhibits and programming to honor the lasting legacy of these two American heroes and inspire people to carry on their work. Please join us by giving a gift. View the Friends of the Closer to Equality Capital Campaign.

A Place in History: The Story of Thaddeus Stevens and Lydia Hamilton Smith

Watch video now (33 minutes)

Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County‎

Office:
123 North Prince Street
Lancaster, PA 17603

phone: 717.291.5861
fax: 717.291.2251
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