Lancaster County is known as the “Garden Spot” because of its rich and fertile farmland. Local food traditions have been influenced by these natural resources as well as by Lancaster’s diverse communities like the German-speaking immigrants who arrived in the 18th century. In this Collections Up Close program, we’ll explore recipes, diaries, photographs, and business records to gain a deeper appreciation for the county’s delicious history.

In Collections Up Close tours, LancasterHistory staff and visiting experts highlight documents, photos, and artifacts from LancasterHistory’s vast collections. In a conversational setting, participants will hear the stories of these objects and what they reveal to us about the history of Lancaster County and its place in American history.

Seasonal Foods in the Garden Spot, a Collections Up Close tour, takes place on Saturday, October 21 at 2pm at LancasterHistory. Tickets are $10/LancasterHistory Members and $15/Non-Members. Tickets can be purchased or reserved online or by calling (717) 392-4633. Capacity is limited, so advance registration is strongly recommended.