All good stories have a strong beginning, an interesting middle and a strong ending. The Old Presbyterian Church had a strong beginning, a crazy – batty? middle and now as the Old Presbyterian Cultural Arts Center, a very fitting end.

Or maybe another beginning . . .

That’s how I ended a post back on June 18, 2012. The Old Presbyterian Church in Lancaster had just opened as the Old Presbyterian Cultural Arts Center. That post shared the history of this beautiful church, including the visit from one of General Sherman’s regiments during his march through the South, and the bats that left more than just a little bit of guano in the attic.

This post is about that another beginning . . . In 2019 ground broke for new additions – a lobby and green room with kitchenette. Last week those additions were revealed during a ribbon-cutting and open house. Lancaster native Jimmy Wilhide of Charlotte-based Mosley Architects designed the additions, keeping the integrity of the historical church intact, while creating a beautiful and functioning performance space. John Craig, President of the Lancaster County Society for Historical Preservation, used the word ‘recast’ during the ceremonies. Lancaster’s Cultural Arts Center is a classic example of how old buildings can be recast with new life.

Hubby and I have enjoyed so many concerts in the Cultural Arts Center over the last 8 years and we can’t wait to attend more in the years to come.

And now for a little tour . . .

Old Presbyterian Church to see photos of the inside with its original fixtures, and to read the interesting history of this beautiful building.

To learn more about the Cultural Arts Center, to keep up with scheduled events, or to schedule an event – it’s open for weddings and other private gatherings!