Lancaster residents have long recognized Central Market as one of the City’s great places.  The historic market recently received national recognition from the American Planning Association (APA) as one of 10 Great Public Spaces in America.  In an October announcement, the APA noted that “This historic market with its rich architectural details is the crown jewel of downtown Lancaster.” 

Central Market’s history dates back to 1730 when Andrew Hamilton laid out the original town plan for Lancaster.  Hamilton designated a lot adjacent to the town square as a public marketplace in perpetuity, making our historic Central Market the oldest continuously operating public marketplace in the United States.  Central Market’s long operating history combined with its architectural design, provides our historic Market local, regional and national significance.

The APA designation complements another national recognition announced earlier this year when Lancaster received designation as a 2009 Preserve America Community.  This designation recognizes the City’s continuing commitment to preserving and utilizing our cultural and natural resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the public.