Bucher Thal Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Bucher Thal Historic District
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | Weaver Rd., East Cocalico Township, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | 29 acres (12 ha) |
| Architect | Multiple |
| Architectural style | Georgian, Federal |
| NRHP reference No. | 87002207 |
| Added to NRHP | December 31, 1987 |
The Bucher Thal Historic District, also called Bucher Valley, is a really old and important area in East Cocalico Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. It's like a time capsule showing how people lived long ago. This district includes 12 main buildings and one structure that tell a story of the past. These buildings were mostly built between 1760 and 1900.
This special district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. This means it's recognized as a place worth protecting because of its history.
Contents
What is a Historic District?
A historic district is a group of buildings, structures, or other objects that are important together. They are important because of their history, architecture, or culture. Think of it like a neighborhood that has kept its old look and feel. These places help us understand how people lived and worked in the past. Protecting them means we can learn from them for many years to come.
Exploring Bucher Thal's History
Bucher Thal is a small, rural area. It shows what a farming community in Pennsylvania looked like centuries ago. The buildings here give us clues about the people who lived there. They also show how architecture changed over time.
Old Buildings You Can Find
The Bucher Thal Historic District has several interesting old buildings. Each one has its own story:
- Bear's Mill (around 1815): This was likely a grist mill. Mills were very important in early communities. They ground grain into flour for bread and other foods.
- Jacob Keller House (around 1785, updated around 1900): This house shows how homes changed over time. It started as an older style and was later updated.
- Keller Barn (1892): Barns were essential for farmers. They stored crops, hay, and housed animals. This barn is a good example of late 19th-century farm buildings.
- Lutz House or Brookside Farm (around 1774, updated around 1900): Another home that saw changes over the years. It shows how families adapted their living spaces.
- Eberly-Lutz House (around 1760): This is one of the oldest buildings in the district. It gives us a peek into very early American architecture.
- Lutz Barn (1873): Like the Keller Barn, this structure highlights the importance of farming in the area's history.
Architectural Styles You Can See
The buildings in Bucher Thal show two main architectural styles:
- Georgian style: This style was popular in the 18th century. Georgian buildings often have a very balanced and symmetrical look. They usually have a central front door with windows placed evenly on both sides.
- Federal style: This style came after Georgian, in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Federal buildings are also symmetrical but might have more decorative details. These details often include fanlights above doors or delicate carvings.
By looking at these buildings, you can see how architectural trends changed over time in rural Pennsylvania.
Why is Bucher Thal Important?
The Bucher Thal Historic District is important because it helps us understand the past. It shows us how early American communities were built and how people lived. By preserving places like this, we keep history alive. It allows future generations to see and learn about the lives of those who came before them. It's a great example of how old buildings can teach us about our heritage.
