Celebrating 100 Years of Mount Gretna: A Century of History and Charm

 

If you have ever driven through the winding, tree-lined roads that lead into Mount Gretna, you know exactly what I mean when I say it feels like stepping into another world. There is a specific magic there, a mixture of pine-scented air, the sound of screen doors lightly clicking shut, and a sense of peace that is hard to find anywhere else.

This year, 2026, is an incredibly special time for this little "paradise for visitors." While Mount Gretna has been a destination for generations, we are officially celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Mount Gretna Borough. Established on October 7, 1926, the borough is hitting its centennial milestone, and it couldn't happen at a better time. As we look forward to the America 250 celebrations across the nation, our local gem is standing tall as a testament to Pennsylvania’s rich history and enduring community spirit.

A Century of Official History (and Even More Memories)

While the Borough officially turns 100 this October, the soul of Mount Gretna goes back much further. Long before the official incorporation in 1926, this area was discovered in 1883 along the Cornwall and Lebanon Railroad. It quickly became a site for the Pennsylvania National Guard’s annual encampments starting in 1885, making the military a foundational part of its early identity.

However, most of us know and love Gretna for its connection to the Chautauqua movement. Founded in 1892, the Pennsylvania Chautauqua was built on the pillars of learning, recreation, and reflection. The idea was simple but profound: create a space where people could escape the grind of daily life to nourish their minds and spirits.

Capturing the essence of the historic gingerbread-style cottages that define the Mount Gretna landscape.

Walking through the narrow streets today, you can still feel that intention. The distinctive architecture of the summer cottages, with their intricate woodwork and wide porches, tells a story of a century spent prioritizing community and culture over the hustle and bustle of the modern world.

The Heart of the Community: Art, Theatre, and the Lake

You can’t talk about Mount Gretna without mentioning the cultural landmarks that have made it famous. Whether you are a lifelong resident of Lancaster or Lebanon County, or you are looking to move to our beautiful area, these are the "must-experience" spots that define the Gretna lifestyle.

The Gretna Playhouse

The Gretna Playhouse is more than just a theatre; it is a living piece of history. As one of the oldest summer stock theatres in the country, it has hosted countless performances under its iconic roof. There is something truly special about watching a live play while the evening breeze rustles the trees just outside the open sides of the Playhouse. It’s an immersive experience that links us back to the entertainment of a century ago.

The Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show

For over 50 years, the Art Show has been the highlight of the summer. What started as a small gathering of local artists has blossomed into a premier event that draws talent from all over the country. If you’ve ever walked the paths during the show, iced tea in hand, browsing handcrafted jewelry and stunning paintings, you know why people travel from hours away just to be here. It’s a celebration of creativity that fits perfectly within the Chautauqua tradition.

The Lake and the Tabernacle

Then, of course, there is the Lake. It is the quintessential summer spot, a place for families to swim, kids to jump off the docks, and everyone to soak in the sun. Nearby, the Tabernacle serves as the spiritual and communal hub, hosting everything from church services to lectures and concerts. These spaces are the "third places" where neighbors become friends and visitors become regulars.

Mount Gretna and America 250

As we celebrate the Borough’s 100th year, it is impossible not to look at the bigger picture. In 2026, the United States is celebrating its 250th anniversary. Mount Gretna’s centennial dovetails perfectly with this national milestone.

A peaceful afternoon at the Mount Gretna Lake, a tradition that has spanned generations of Pennsylvania families.

In a world that often feels like it's moving too fast, Mount Gretna represents the best of our history. It is a place that has worked hard to preserve its character. When we celebrate "America 250," we are celebrating the communities that make up the fabric of our nation. Mount Gretna, with its deep roots in the military, education, and the arts, is a shining example of the American spirit, resilient, creative, and deeply connected to the land.

A Real Estate Perspective: Why We Love Mount Gretna

As a REALTOR® with over 20 years of experience in the Lancaster and Lebanon County markets, I have had the privilege of helping many families find their perfect home in and around this area. I often tell my clients that buying a home in Mount Gretna isn't just about the property; it’s about the lifestyle.

The real estate market here is unique. We have everything from year-round residences to historic summer cottages that have been passed down through families for decades. Because the Borough is so well-preserved, these homes hold a special kind of value. They are "legacy homes."

If you are curious about the current market or thinking about finding your own slice of paradise here, you can check out my buying and selling tips or take a look at my active listings. I’ve spent two decades navigating the nuances of our local market, and I can tell you that there is nothing quite like a Gretna cottage.

How to Celebrate the Centennial

The Borough Council and the Mount Gretna Historical Society have been working hard to make 2026 a year to remember. Here are a few things to look forward to:

• The Summer Kickoff (May 23, 2026): A community-wide event to start the season with a bang.
• Historical Presentations: Throughout the year, there will be informational signs and presentations by the historical society detailing the journey from a railroad stop to an incorporated borough.
• The October Commemoration: The official 100th-anniversary celebration will take place in October, marking the actual date of incorporation.

The historic Mount Gretna Tabernacle, a center for community gatherings and cultural events since the late 19th century.

Whether you come for the ice cream at the Jigger Shop (a tradition in itself!) or a quiet hike through the Governor Dick trails, I encourage you to take a moment this year to appreciate the history around you.

Looking Forward to the Next 100 Years

As we celebrate this centennial, we aren't just looking at the past; we are looking toward the future. Mount Gretna remains a "paradise for visitors" because the people who live here and visit here care deeply about its preservation. It is a community that values the arts, respects nature, and cherishes its neighbors.

I am so grateful to have been a part of this community’s story through my work in real estate over the last 20+ years. Seeing the joy on a buyer’s face when they get the keys to a Gretna home is one of the highlights of my job.

If you’d like to learn more about the local area or need help with your real estate journey, please feel free to contact me or visit joyceherr.com. I would love to share more about why this corner of Pennsylvania is so incredibly special.

Happy 100th Birthday, Mount Gretna! Here’s to a century of charm and many more years of making memories under the pines.

Wishing you all a wonderful season of celebration,

Joyce Herr CEO - REALTOR®