Today, Lancaster is known for its charm, farmland, and strong community. But few people realize it was once one of the most important inland cities in the entire country.

In the early 1700s, this region was so far from government centers that crime and disorder became serious problems. That led to the creation of Lancaster County in 1729. From the start, Lancaster was designed to be a center for commerce, law, and opportunity.

Rich farmland and natural resources helped the area grow quickly. Farmers, craftsmen, and merchants built a strong local economy.

By 1760, Lancaster was thriving - filled with diverse cultures, businesses, and faith communities.

Between 1760 and the early 1800s, it became the largest inland city in America, even larger than most inland cities in England at the time.

Transportation fueled that rise. Turnpikes, canals, and railroads connected Lancaster to Philadelphia, Baltimore, and beyond. 

Goods and people moved through the city daily, turning it into a major trade hub. Industries followed, from iron furnaces and silk mills to cigar factories and breweries.

By the late 1800s, Lancaster was a full-fledged commercial powerhouse. 

Downtown was packed with banks, stores, theaters, and markets. Residents could find nearly everything they needed within a few blocks.

Now today it’s the county we all know and love. 

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Looking for something fun to do on a winter evening? Trivia lovers and wing fans will want to mark their calendars for January 28.

Ephrata-Reading Elks Lodge #115 is hosting a Trivia & Wings Night from 5 PM to 8 PM, offering a laid-back night of food, friendly competition, and community fun.

Doors open at 5 PM, giving guests time to grab food and settle in before trivia kicks off at 6 PM. Wings and other food will be available throughout the evening, making it easy to turn this into a full night out.

Teams and individual players will have a chance to test their knowledge across a variety of trivia categories while competing for a first-place prize.

Whether you’re a serious trivia buff or just in it for the laughs, this event is designed to be welcoming and easy to jump into.

The event is open to the community, with organizers emphasizing that everyone is welcome.

For more information, you can call 717-738-0920.

If you’re looking for a simple way to get out of the house, enjoy some wings, and challenge your brain, Trivia & Wings Night could be the perfect midweek plan.

One of Lancaster County’s most beloved family attractions is getting ready to welcome visitors back for the season.

The Choo Choo Barn, located in Strasburg, officially reopens on Tuesday, January 27, marking the start of another year of trains, tiny towns, and detailed miniature scenes that have made it a local favorite for generations.

Known for its massive indoor model railroad display, the Choo Choo Barn features dozens of trains weaving through hand-built landscapes, farms, villages, amusement parks, and historic landmarks. 

The attraction covers more than 1,700 square feet and includes hundreds of moving parts, making every visit a little different from the last.

Opening day kicks off the 2026 season, making this a perfect option for families looking for indoor activities during cold winter weekends.

Whether you’re visiting with young kids, hosting out-of-town guests, or just feeling nostalgic, the Choo Choo Barn offers something that appeals to every age.

The display is updated regularly, with new details and seasonal touches added throughout the year.

Many locals make it a tradition to stop by multiple times to see what’s new.

Located along Route 741 in Strasburg, the Choo Choo Barn is also close to the Strasburg Rail Road and other popular attractions, making it easy to turn your visit into a full day out.

If you’re already thinking ahead to early February plans, opening day on January 27 is your signal that the train season in Lancaster County is officially back.

January is prime comfort-food season, and Luca continues to be one of Lancaster’s best tables right now. Known for house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and a cozy, rustic vibe, it’s an easy pick for date night or a lingering dinner with friends. 

The rotating pasta dishes are always a highlight, and the Italian-leaning wine and cocktail list makes it easy to settle in for the night. 

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends - but if you can snag a bar seat, it’s well worth it.