Issuu

THE YORK

STORY: Then. Now. Next.

Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center: Preserving the Past, Building the Future

Listicle: 5 Ways to Step Back in Time in Downtown York

York Architecture Illustrated: The Art of Preserving York

Downtown York Fall 2026

THE YORK STORY: Then. Now. Next. The history of Downtown York - where a rich past meets a vibrant present.

CONTENTS 05

My Downtown Discover what David Melugin loves about Downtown York

Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center

Preserving the Past, Building the Future The new Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center celebrates the people and stories that shaped York while inspiring generations to come.

Historic York From Pullman to Possibility More than a century after York’s automobile ambitions stalled, the former Pullman site is ready for a new chapter.

Listicle 5 Ways to Step Back in Time in Downtown York Your guide to experiencing history first-hand through entertainment, events, and shopping.

BLOOM Business Empowerment Center The Art of Preserving York With hand-drafted illustrations and meticulous research, Blake Gifford’s York Architecture Illustrated reveals the history behind the buildings we pass every day.

York County Trail Towns

DOWNTOWN DISH

A Trail Through Time Discover Downtown York’s history through a walking tour.

Events

What's happening around Downtown York Downtown York Fall 2026

Credits

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The opinions expressed in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

144 Roosevelt Ave., Suite 100, York, PA 17401 info@downtownyorkpa.com DowntownYorkPa.com @DowntownYorkPa Advertising Sterling Dunlap | SDunlap@yceapa.org

This publication is produced in partnership with Tetra Creative Studio (tetracreative.studio). Copyright © 2026 Downtown Inc. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the specific written permission of Downtown Inc. View the digital versions of Downtown York magazine online at bit.ly/DYMagazine

FALL 2026

A PUBLICATION OF THE YORK COUNTY ECONOMIC ALLIANCE

Local businesses and organizations embracing sustainability in YoCo

GROWING GREENER

Building a Sustainable Future with KBS Waste Solutions

Shipley Energy: Powering the Future Through Choice

Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association Protects Clean Water for All

Interested in learning more about what York County has to offer? Start your journey with the digital versions of YoCo Connect magazine online at Issuu.com/YoCoConnect

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Whether you're targeting tourists, event planners, or the media—we help you get noticed. Join today and tap into York County’s thriving visitor economy.

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Downtown York Fall 2026

MY DOWNTOWN with David Melugin, General Manager | The Yorktowne Hotel

General Manager of The Q As Yorktowne Hotel, what is the

reaction you hear most often from first-time guests? The comment I hear most often is how pleasantly surprised visitors are with everything the city has to offer. They're impressed not only by the beauty of the restored Yorktowne Hotel, but also by the charm, cleanliness, and history of Downtown York.

The York County History Center and satellite Agricultural & Industrial Museum. They are beautifully curated, engaging, and interactive, and every visit teaches me something new. One of my favorite discoveries was learning the origin of the phrase, "I'll be there with bells on."

To you, what does the “perfect day in Downtown York” look like? The day would involve great coffee, good company, a walk through the city, shopping, visiting local attractions, and an outstanding dinner. The evening would end on the Graham Rooftop Lounge atop the 100-year-old Yorktowne Hotel, taking in the panoramic views of the city.

Yorktowne was recently Q The welcomed into Historic Hotels

What's one thing you wish more visitors knew about Downtown York? I wish more people realized just how easy Downtown York is to visit. With three centrally located parking garages that offer complimentary weekend parking, it's incredibly convenient to spend the day exploring the city. Whether it's history, shopping, live theater, music, sports, architecture, breweries, ﬁne dining, local markets, churches, museums, or outdoor recreation, Downtown York has something for everyone. Whatever your interests, there's an experience here waiting to be discovered.

What is a hidden gem you've discovered in Downtown?

of America—an honor reserved for some of the country's most significant historic properties. What does that recognition mean to you and your team?

Being welcomed into Historic Hotels of America is both an incredible honor and a tremendous responsibility. Our team is proud to serve as the caretakers of one of York's most treasured landmarks. We are deeply grateful to the York County Economic Alliance and the entire York community, whose vision and dedication restored this remarkable hotel to its original grandeur. It's a privilege to share that history with guests from across the country.

do you think makes Q What the Yorktowne worthy of the

national recognition, and how does Downtown York contribute to the guest experience? The Yorktowne earned this recognition because its restoration carefully preserved the character and historical significance that have deﬁned the hotel for more than a century. That commitment extends beyond the building itself. Downtown York's architecture, cultural institutions, local businesses, and vibrant streets create an authentic destination where guests don't just stay in history; they experience it.

does having a nationally Q What recognized historic hotel mean for Downtown York's future as a destination?

Recognition by Historic Hotels of America reinforces Downtown York's reputation as a destination where history is preserved, celebrated, and experienced. It shines a national spotlight on our city and helps attract visitors who value authenticity, heritage, and community. More importantly, it ensures that these stories and the places that tell them will continue to inspire future generations. 5

Preserving the Past, Building the Future The new Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center celebrates the people and stories that shaped York while inspiring generations to come. By Bronley Martin | Urban Revitalization Manager

York has welcomed an important new cultural destination that is as much about the future as it is the past. The newly opened Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center offers visitors an immersive experience that celebrates the rich history, resilience, and contributions of York County’s African American community while creating a welcoming space for dialogue, education, and community connection. Officially opened in May 2026 as Crispus Attucks York celebrated its 95th anniversary, the center represents decades of vision and years of planning. More than a museum, it serves as an extension of the organization's longstanding mission to empower individuals, strengthen families, and build a stronger community through education, workforce development, and cultural preservation. “Crispus Attucks has always been about showing the community that nothing is impossible if we are persistent, disciplined, and focused on bettering ourselves and our community, and this center continues to tell that story,“ shares Crispus Attucks CEO Robert “Bobby” Simpson.

Downtown York Fall 2026

Founded in 1931, Crispus Attucks York has evolved from a neighborhood community center into one of York County's most influential nonprofit organizations. Throughout its history, it has provided educational opportunities, employment services, youth programming, senior services, and countless initiatives designed to improve quality of life. The History & Culture Center expands that legacy by ensuring the stories of York's Black community are preserved and shared for generations to come. Visitors quickly discover that this is not a traditional museum where history simply sits behind glass. Instead, the center invites guests to engage with exhibits that explore the triumphs, challenges, and everyday experiences that have shaped York's African American community. Through multimedia presentations, artifacts, personal stories, and educational displays, the center examines topics ranging from slavery and segregation to entrepreneurship, civil rights, artistic achievement, community leadership, and cultural traditions. “We cannot just focus on the bad things that have happened in the past; we need to show how this community has come together and lifted itself up,” explains Mr. Simpson. The exhibits encourage visitors not only to learn about history, but to reflect on how it continues to shape the present.

" We need to show how this community has come together and lifted itself up." Robert "Bobby" Simpson, Crispus Attucks CEO

The building itself is an attraction. Designed by Downtown York-based Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects as South-Central Pennsylvania's first multi-story cross-laminated timber structure, the contemporary facility combines striking architecture with warm gathering spaces that encourage conversation and collaboration. Visitors can explore gallery spaces, interactive exhibits, community areas, a peaceful Unity Courtyard, and a rooftop observation deck offering a unique perspective of the surrounding neighborhood. Every element was intentionally designed to make people feel welcome, regardless of their background or familiarity with York's history. Programming extends well beyond the exhibits. Throughout the year, the History & Culture Center hosts educational programs, lectures, cultural events, school field trips, performances, and community conversations designed to engage visitors of all ages.

Downtown York Fall 2026

The center also serves as a venue for meetings and special events, reinforcing its role as a gathering place where people can come together to learn from one another and celebrate the diversity that strengthens York. Perhaps what makes the center most noteworthy is its broader purpose. While it preserves the history of York's African American community, its mission reaches beyond historical interpretation. The organization describes the center as a place where history informs the present and inspires the future; a space that promotes understanding, encourages meaningful conversations about race and equity, and fosters multicultural harmony throughout the region. Pointing to a wall of portrait photos of community members, Mr. Simpson says, “You see faces here from past and present, and of people of every race and background, that all had a hand in making this center possible, because it takes everyone working together to get the job done.” As York continues to invest in its future, the Crispus Attucks York History & Culture Center reminds us that understanding our shared history is essential to building stronger communities. It is a destination that educates, inspires, and invites every visitor to become part of York's continuing story.

45 E. Boundary Ave. | cayhcc.org | 8

Downtown York Fall 2026

Business Manager James Kline (Center) with employees and two early Pullman Models (photo courtesy of the York County History Center)

From Pullman to Possibility More than a century after York’s automobile ambitions stalled, the former Pullman site is ready for a new chapter. By Brendan Salyards Manager, Economic Initiatives & Analysis

The history of the York Automobile Company (Pullman Company), manufacturer of the Pullman automobile, is a tale of “what might have been” for York—a missed opportunity to rival Detroit’s major automobile manufacturers. While the Motor City remains firmly in Michigan, the story of “the Pullman” has left its mark on the streetscape at N. George and W. North Streets. This history has recently become more visible following the demolition of the buildings at 244-256 N. George Street by Royal Square Development & Construction, funded by the York County Land Bank Authority to prepare the site for future redevelopment.

The York Automobile Company was unrelated to the luxury railway carriage manufacturer but sought to evoke the same prestige associated with the Pullman name. Albert P. Broomall designed the first Pullman in 1903, a novel six-wheeled car driven by its middle wheels. The name referenced the six-wheel passenger coaches of the era. However, as William H. Shank, P.E., notes in his company history, the unusual design sometimes left the steering wheels off the ground, significantly reducing the vehicle’s performance. Despite the first model’s limited success, Broomall continued his work, partnering with the York Carriage Company, which operated at W. North and N. George Streets.

Its showroom at 238 N. George Street still bears advertising that has become more visible. The company’s second model was marketed as the “York.” In 1906, Broomall and automotive enthusiast James Kline founded the York Motor Car Company, which soon returned to the Pullman name. After reorganizing in 1909, new management oversaw a period of growth, with Pullman automobiles earning a reputation for quality and reliability. Models won endurance races as far away as Siberia, while employment reached 700. A Pullman sold for an average of $2,500—equivalent to roughly $86,000 in purchasing power today.

Downtown York Fall 2026

Original six-wheel Pullman automobile on the Gettysburg Battlefield (photo courtesy of the York County History Center)

THE FUTURE OF THE SITE A second reorganization in 1915 followed the rise of Ford’s inexpensive and reliable Model T. Efforts to secure government contracts during World War I failed, and Pullman’s attempt to compete with a series of “Junior” models proved unsuccessful. Under General Manager Hans Hayden, production outpaced sales, leaving hundreds of unsold cars in warehouses across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. The company declared bankruptcy in 1916, and the final Pullman automobiles were produced in 1917, ending the company’s brief era. SOURCES: Shank, William H. (1970) History of the York Pullman Automobile 1903-1917. The Historical Society of York County Sheets, G.R. (2002) York County: To the Setting of the Sun: An Illustrated History. Sun Valley, CA: American Historical Press.

Today, the York Automobile Company site is poised for a new chapter. The Pullman may not have made York the Motor City, but its legacy reflects the ambition, ingenuity, and craftsmanship that define the community. More than a century later, the corner of N. George and W. North Streets offers a new opportunity to ask, “What might be?” That question inspired Downtown Inc’s Imagine the Possibilities campaign. Rather than simply speculating, York residents, business owners, visitors, and downtown enthusiasts were invited to share their vision for this prominent gateway site. Ideas ranged from restaurants and residential development to arts, entertainment, public spaces, and unexpected concepts. Downtown Inc selected standout submissions for this issue—not as predictions, but as a snapshot of what York imagines for its future. The Pullman story reminds us that York has never been short on big ideas. More than a century later, the invitation remains the same: Imagine the possibilities. What will York build next? Renderings provided by Royal Square, created using the assistance of AI.

5 Ways to Step Back in Time in Downtown York YOUR GUIDE TO EXPERIENCING HISTORY FIRST-HAND THROUGH ENTERTAINMENT, EVENTS, AND SHOPPING.

1. Fall Oyster Festival The Oyster Festival began in 1974 as a community open house celebrating the 10th anniversary of the restoration of the Horatio Gates House and Golden Plough Tavern. After a successful first event, organizers repeated it in 1975, adding oysters to the menu. The oysters were inspired by shells discovered in the Golden Plough Tavern yard during its 1964 restoration, many dating back more than 200 years, connecting the festival to the site’s colonial history. The 52nd Annual Fall Oyster Festival is back on October 18, from 11 am-4 pm at the Colonial Complex, with the biggest and most diverse land-and-sea menu yet! From fall comfort foods to fresh seafood, including oysters, to sweet treats and more, there’s something to satisfy every craving. You can also shop an array of vendors and artisans. Proceeds benefit the York County History Center.

OYSTERS AND BLACK HISTORY As early as the 18th century, African Americans living near the Chesapeake Bay began working on the water, using skills learned from living near the water in Africa. By the 1820s, most registered oystermen in the colonies were African American, according to On a Bed of Oyster Shells I Stand, a book about oysters and York County’s Black community produced by Friends of Lebanon Cemetery. Through the Civil War, York’s Black citizens owned and operated some of the busiest oyster cellars and saloons in the area. The list included Stephen Davidge, who operated an oyster cellar near what is now Continental Square, and Thomas and Hamilton Gray, who owned an oyster cellar, a restaurant, and an ice cream shop. Other merchants operated oyster carts through the downtown. John Reeves was so successful, he earned enough money to buy houses for all of his children, including Helen Reeves, later Helen Reeves Thackston, the director of the preschool program at Crispus Attucks Community Center for more than 30 years.

Downtown York Fall 2026

Feral Heart Club 49 N Beaver St feralheartclub.com

2. Vintage Shopping on Beaver Street If you’re looking to add some retro flair to your personal style, look no further than the vintage boutiques along Beaver Street. Revolt Style Studio is home to a curated selection of vintage clothing, accessories, and home goods spanning several decades and styles. Across the street, discover timeless fashion for free spirits at Feral Heart Club, offering classic and eclectic vintage clothing, handmade cosmetics, and accessories you can build your whole look around. Head south on Beaver Street, and you’ll come to The Kitsch-enette, a vegan cafe/vintage shop hybrid where you can enjoy a bite and a freshly prepared beverage while browsing their shelves of retro décor, kitchenware, art, and other unique items. Last stop is Editionstyles Vintage, a romantic, coquette-inspired boutique offering vintage dresses, unique accessories, teacups, trinket boxes, and home décor.

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3. York County History Center Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of York County’s captivating history at the York County History Center, through engaging exhibits, historic sites & interactive programs. The museum, recently voted by readers of USA Today as one of the 10 best new museums in the US, offers a dynamic journey through the past and is home to the research library and archives. Beyond the museum, history extends to the nearby Colonial Complex, Agricultural and Industrial Museum, and Fire Museum. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious visitor, or simply seeking an enriching experience for the whole family, the York County History Center promises an unforgettable adventure through time. 121 N Pershing Ave | yorkhistorycenter.org

Downtown York Fall 2026

4. Timeline Arcade Who says history can’t be fun? Have a blast from the past at Timeline Arcade, home to over 300 games and counting, making it the largest retro arcade in South Central Pennsylvania and beyond. From Birthday Parties to Corporate Events, Timeline Arcade is the perfect location for you to celebrate any special occasion. The arcade also hosts their own events such as meet-and-greets, themed nights, and more. 54 W Market St | timelinearcade.org

5. The Capitol Theatre The Capitol Theatre, in the Appell Center for the Performing Arts, has a 100-year history of adapting to changing forms of entertainment while remaining an important part of the community. Originally opened in 1906 as The Theatorium, it evolved into a movie house and was later renamed the Capitol Theatre after Nathan Appell acquired and renovated it in 1926. The theatre featured a Wurlitzer pipe organ, which is still used today, and became part of York’s growing downtown entertainment district. After declining attendance led to its closure in 1977, community efforts helped save and reopen the theatre as part of the Strand-Capitol Performing Arts Center in 1980. Major renovations in the 2000s and 2018 modernized the theatre while preserving historic features such as its proscenium arch and murals. Today, the Capitol Theatre continues to host movies, concerts, comedy, educational programs, and community events, welcoming new generations of audiences. 50 N George St | appellcenter.org

Beyond the Beer: The Food, Flavors, and Hospitality of Holy Hound Taproom A local favorite for over a decade, Holy Hound’s exceptional food and drink are only part of the experience that keeps guests coming back. By Sarah O’Brien | Director, Downtown Inc Step through the doors of Holy Hound Taproom, and you'll understand why so many call it their neighborhood living room. The warm lighting, cozy atmosphere, and friendly faces behind the bar create the kind of place where regulars gather, first-time visitors instantly feel welcomed, and every visit seems to turn into one more round, one more appetizer, or one more conversation.

"We want people to feel at home," says Front of House Manager Kathy Giuffrida, who has been part of the Holy Hound family since 2013. "It's super chill, laid back, and our staff is welcoming and engaging." While Holy Hound has long earned its reputation as one of Downtown York's premier destinations for craft beer lovers, with 30 rotating taps featuring selections from Pennsylvania and around the world, the team wants guests to know there's much more waiting beyond the tap list.

"Our beer gets people in the door," Kathy says, "but we have delicious cocktails, incredible food, and something for everyone…even if you don't think you like beer." That philosophy carries straight into the kitchen, where the menu balances longtime Holy Hound favorites with creative dishes that go well beyond traditional pub fare.

One of the newest additions, the Unfigginbelievable Burger, earned such a loyal following during Burger Week that guests demanded it become a permanent menu item. Layered with goat cheese, caramelized onions, bacon, fig jam, house-made aioli, arugula, and a balsamic drizzle on ciabatta, it's a perfect example of Holy Hound's creative approach to comfort food. Then there's the ramen. Unlike a traditional broth-based bowl, Holy Hound's signature Ramen Bowl is a stir-fried dish packed with bok choy, bean sprouts, scallions, ponzu soy seasoning, and just enough sriracha to keep guests coming back. Around Downtown, it's developed something of a reputation as the meal that can cure just about anything. Beyond the fan favorites, diners will also find colorful Poke Bowls and Pad Thai, beautifully seared Teriyaki Ginger-Crusted Ahi Tuna, hearty French Onion Soup, and shareable Disco Fries that prove sometimes classic bar food deserves the spotlight, too. 16

As summer gives way to fall, Holy Hound leans into the season with rotating soups, fresh salads featuring ingredients like squash, goat cheese, pumpkin seeds, and maple pumpkin vinaigrette, plus a lineup of Oktoberfest beers, pumpkin ales, and handcrafted seasonal cocktails. This fall also brings something longtime customers have been requesting for years: beer flights.

you walk in, Holy Hound continues to prove that great hospitality is about more than what's on the menu. "It's never a dull moment downtown," Kathy says. "There's always something happening, and you meet people from every walk of life." At Holy Hound, that's exactly what makes every visit worth raising a glass to.

"We finally caved," Kathy laughs. Now guests can sample several brews at once…a perfect way to explore one of the region's most impressive beer selections. Whether you're stopping in after work, gathering with friends before a show, or simply looking for a place that feels familiar from the moment

57 W. Market St. | holyhoundtaproom.com

HISTORIC BEGINNINGS: Holy Hound Taproom has occupied the corner of North Beaver and West Market Streets for more than a decade, but the building’s history stretches back to 1828, when it first opened as a hotel. Originally known as the White Hall Hotel, it was renamed National House during the Civil War and welcomed notable guests including Charles Dickens, President Martin Van Buren, and other prominent visitors.

The Art of Preserving York With hand-drafted illustrations and meticulous research, Blake Gifford’s York Architecture Illustrated reveals the history behind the buildings we pass every day. By Marlena Schugt

York Architecture Illustrated (YAI) originally started as a creative outlet for registered architect Blake Gifford but has since grown to a trifecta of historic preservation research, education, and advocacy for sites in York County. Blake’s interest struck after graduating from Penn State University and moving to Downtown York with his now-wife, a York native. Fascinated by the historic buildings surrounding their new home, Blake found his way to the York County History Center and eventually volunteered as a tour guide for their Bonham House site.

He continued to expand his knowledge based on what he learned through the History Center to uncover the stories of neighborhoods, properties, and buildings that many of us pass each day in the City of York. The more he learned, the more his appreciation for York’s buildings and history grew. “It’s an incredibly special place,” said Blake. “It is literally a living, breathing museum of architectural history.”

With tremendous amounts of research time and even more time put into bringing these structures to life using traditional hand-drafting techniques, alongside modern technologies, Blake was ready to share what he had found. In 2022, following a career reflection during the COVID-19 pandemic, Blake launched his portfolio on Instagram with 10 hand-drafted works of art highlighting the façades of York’s buildings. “Each building that I would draw was a chance to research and learn, and the more that I pieced these bits of information together, the more that I was like, okay, this is York’s story,” shared Blake. Since then, he has drawn nearly fifty pieces featuring some of York’s most notable buildings, including the Fluhrer Building, Laurel-Rex Fire Station, the William Goodridge House, and many more. On his website, alongside each hand-drafted work of art, Blake shares his research on the structure and the story behind how it came to be. With this growing repertoire of stories, Blake has established the second facet of YAI as two-hour walking tours throughout Downtown York. One of Blake’s next projects, made possible by funding

for new technology through his 2026 City of York BLOOM Grant, is creating a virtual visual reconstruction of the Codorus Street Neighborhood. This historic neighborhood was demolished in 1960 under eminent domain just southwest of Downtown York, where the Martin Luther King Jr. Park can be found now. Projects like this reflect Blake’s broader commitment to preserving and sharing York’s history. Throughout the launch and growth of YAI, he has engaged with local organizations, such as the Friends of Lebanon Cemetery, the City of York’s Historic Architecture Review Board, and the York County History Center, to further elevate and bring awareness to York’s history. Explore Blake’s drawings or sign up for a walking tour at yorkarchillustrated.com. For more details on upcoming BLOOM Grants to see how this funding can support taking your business to the next level, visit BLOOMYork.org/Grants.

"It (York) is Literally a living, breathing museum of architectural History." - Blake Gifford 19

A Trail Through Time

Discover Downtown York’s history through a walking tour.

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York’s story stretches back nearly three centuries, and over the years, our city has played a pivotal role in some of the biggest moments in American history. From the Revolutionary War to the rise of industry and innovation, York has a story around every corner.

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WellSpan Park, home of the York Revolution, is a gathering place for baseball, entertainment, and community. But baseball’s history in York goes back much further. Long before WellSpan Park, Penn Park was home to the York Penn Parks and thousands of fans. It was there, in late August 1901, that an important chapter in York’s baseball history began. Professional baseball left York for nearly four decades after the York White Roses folded in 1969. The York Revolution brought the sport back in 2007, becoming an important part of Downtown York’s resurgence. Since then, the team has won five Atlantic League championships and brought thousands of fans into the city. Today, WellSpan Park is more than a ballpark—it’s part of York’s comeback.

2. York County History Center | 121 N. Pershing Ave. Just three years after Thomas Edison switched on electric lights in New York City, York had its own power in 1885 thanks to the Edison Electric Light Company. The city’s first generating station produced only 75 kilowatts, but as demand grew, so did its reach, eventually powering York’s streetlights and streetcars. The steam plant remained part of York’s power story for decades before closing in 1977. Nearly 40 years later, the historic site began a new chapter when it was acquired by the York County Heritage Trust in 2015 and transformed into the York County History Center’s museum and research center.

Downtown York Fall 2026

2. Colonial Complex | 157 W. Market St. The four historic sites here each tell a different story, from everyday colonial life at the 1740s Golden Plough Tavern to the Revolutionary War history of the Gates House, where General Horatio Gates lived while the Continental Congress was in York. The nearby Colonial Courthouse replica commemorates the building where Congress met from 1777 to 1778 and adopted the Articles of Confederation. Rounding out the complex is the Bobb Log House, a rare two-story log home dating to about 1812 that was moved here in 1968 after local preservationists stepped in to save it from demolition. Together, the buildings offer a fascinating glimpse of York’s past and its role in the founding story of our nation.

4. Jubal Early's March Into York | Market St. Gettysburg may be Pennsylvania’s best-known Civil War story, but the war came directly to York. In June 1863, Confederate General Jubal A. Early and about 5,000 troops occupied York, making it the largest Northern city taken by Confederate forces. Local leaders, including industrialist Arthur Briggs Farquhar, negotiated a surrender in exchange for supplies and a $100,000 ransom. Residents raised only about $28,000, but Early accepted the supplies and left without burning or looting the city. More than 160 years later, the decision remains a debated chapter of York’s history with whether the agreement saved the city or reveal divided loyalties among its residents.

5. Agricultural & Industrial Museum 217 W. Princess St. The site’s industrial story dates to 1848, when inventor Phineas Davis built one of the first coal-powered steam locomotives for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad here. The property later became home to George F. Motter & Sons, a major York manufacturer of heavy machinery that eventually expanded across much of the surrounding block.

To discover more of York’s history, visit the York County History Center (yorkhistorycenter.org). Downtown York Fall 2026

After the company closed in the 1950s, the complex changed hands several times before York County acquired it in 1990. Three years later, it reopened as the Industrial Museum of York County, preserving the stories of people, industries and inventions that helped shape York’s manufacturing history. Today, it is part of the York County History Center. 21

MARK YOUR CALENDARS Thursday, December 10 | 4:30 - 7:30pm Valencia Ballroom | 142 N. George St.

2026 Changemaker Celebration presented by Comcast and Hollywood Casino York

This awards presentation and reception honors individuals who make things happen in our community!

Events November 4 | 7:30 – 9 am Downtown Update, Keystone Kidspace, 10 Hamilton Ave

For details, visit DowntownYorkPA.com

For details, visit YCEAPA.org

November 22 | 10 – 11:30 am Hanging of the Greens, Downtown York WEEKLY: SUNDAYS IN THE CITY presented by York County History Center, Downtown York

October 12 | 11:30 am – 1 pm A Chat with our 2025 & 2026 ATHENAs, a WBCO Luncheon Series Event Out Door Country Club, 1157 Detwiler Rd. October 28 | 7:30 - 8:30 am Energy Symposium, an Economic Insights Series event presented by Glatfelter Insurance Group Wyndham Garden York, 2000 Loucks Rd.

MONTHLY: FIRST FRIDAYS | 5 – 9 pm presented by WellSpan Health, Downtown York J October 2: Halloween Pet Parade J November 6 J December 4 WeCo THIRD FRIDAYS | 5-9 pm presented by WellSpan Health, WeCo District

November 5 | 5 - 7 pm YCEA Mixer at Aldus Brewing Company 13 Center Square, Hanover November 10 | 9 – 10 am Let’s Connect: Member Orientation YCEA Board Room, 144 Roosevelt Ave. November 10 | 11:30 am – 1 pm Mentorship & Professional Growth, a WBCO Luncheon Series Event Heritage Hills Resort, 2700 Mt. Rose Ave.

Missteps happen. That’s why we’re here. Injuries & Accidents

Whatever comes your way, get convenient care to meet everybody’s needs. We’re right here in York with urgent care for the whole family. From illnesses and infections to accidents and injuries and more, our experts are close by and ready when you need us.

WellSpan.org/UrgentCare

Sick Days & More

Convenient Location

144 Roosevelt Ave. Suite 100 York, PA 17401

Downtown York Fall 2026