Ephrata Cloister: Ephrata, PA

The Ephrata Cloister preserves the remains of a religious communal society founded in 1732 by German immigrant Conrad Beissel. The monastic society of brothers and sisters lived an austere life of work, study, and prayer. They ate one meal a day of grains, fruits, and vegetables, and encouraged celibacy. They even slept on wooden benches with wooden "pillows." Known for its a cappella singing and publishing, the society lived and worked in a cluster of striking buildings with steep-roofed medieval-style architecture. The last sister died in 1813.

Pushing William Penn's "Holy Experiment" to its Limits: Ephrata Cloister

I have never heard of this historic site in Lancaster County. The above link is from the Pennsylvania Heritage website and has more photos including some of the interior with furnishings. I haven't finished reading it yet but have it bookmarked. It is absolutely fascinating! Enjoy. xo

Home Page with Most Current Blog

Pennsylvania Stone Farmhouses in the Brandywine Valley

The 1725 John Chad House has traditional pent eaves between the stories. I've never seen this feature in person but it looks quite wonderful in this photo. 

The brick 1724 Abiah Taylor House, near West Chester, has an unusual second-floor balcony in the center of the pent roof, and restored casement windows. The 1995 frame wing at right was added by architect John Milner, a leader in the continuing farmhouse tradition. These two photos came from this fascinating article.