The Olde Lincoln House has a rich history
In the early 19th century, around 1809-1812, John Reist laid out the first buildings in the town of New Ephrata. The second building that was constructed was a tavern with a wide stone foundation. New Ephrata was a very prosperous town, but with the coming of the railroad a dispute arose between New Ephrata and Ephrata. When the railroad went through Ephrata, New Ephrata was renamed Lincoln after the then-President (sometime around 1860). In the late 1960’s the town of Lincoln was annexed into the Ephrata borough, however many local residents still refer to this area as Lincoln. In 1861, Lincoln passed through New Ephrata via railroad into the city of Lancaster. For only 18 minutes he slowed and gave a speech to the citizens of Lancaster on his way to the inauguration. Over the years many small additions have been added to the original structure. The tin ceiling and walls in the bar area were added in the 1800’s. The main section of the bar is original to that era, but the copper trough around the base of the bar that was for the convenience of customers who chewed tobacco is now missing. The original bar back is now in our hallway as well as the original stone from his speech, and many other pictures from the early years. The Olde Lincoln House has had many names, most of which were after the current owner: Miller’s Hotel, Fair’s Hotel and Spangler’s Hotel. Prior to 1967, the Lincoln House was a residence for the former owner, served patrons their favorite cocktails, had a limited menu, and rented rooms on the second floor. Today, The Olde Lincoln House no longer offers board, but it remains a favorite place to eat for residents and visitors alike. As well as host gatherings and parties in our upstairs rooms. So to conclude, was Lincoln ever here at the Olde Lincoln House? Well we do not know, as there is no documented proof saying he was. We like to think there is a great chance he stopped in for a moment on his way and our beloved building serves as a treasured reminder of his life. After all every tavern deserves a little history, a little mystery and good story!
