In April 1789, the Moravian missionary John Heckewelder visited Ephrata and reported:

“the buildings are getting old and going to pieces.  It is a pity they are only of wood, which does not last.  They could be a visible monument to preserve the history of our predecessors here.”

More than two centuries have passed since Heckewelder’s visit and, fortunately, the buildings at the Ephrata Cloister remain.  In fact, people come from around the world to see the Ephrata Cloister—just last year over 21,000 people and 1,400 schoolchildren visited.  These people stayed in local hotels and patronized local businesses.  Times have changed, last year’s drastic state budget cuts deeply affected the historic sites and museums administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, including the Ephrata Cloister. That is why the time is now for members of the community at large to support and identify themselves with this National Historic Landmark by contributing to this year’s annual appeal!

In 1941, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania undertook approximately thirty years of restoration to ensure public access to this unique and important story in Pennsylvania’s history.  Seventeen years later, in 1958, the Ephrata Cloister Associates were formed to assist the Commonwealth in the preservation and interpretation of the site.  Since their beginning, the Associates have been dedicated to the ongoing care of the site’s 28 acres, nine historic buildings, two cemeteries, and over 3,000 artifacts relating to life at Ephrata.  

The Ephrata Cloister Associates, like the other friends groups, are being asked to take a larger financial role in the ongoing preservation of Pennsylvania’s historic sites and their collections.  Our goal is to raise $15,000 to address pressing maintenance needs that affect the beauty and safety of the site.  Your donation will help us preserve, protect, and maintain the beautiful landscape, striking historic buildings, artifacts, and programming that so many enjoy. 

Please help us to ensure that Ephrata Cloister continues as “a visible monument to preserve the history of our predecessors here” for future generations by contributing to our annual appeal.

For frequently asked questions about the budget crisis, the Ephrata Cloister Associates, and other ways you can help please click here. Donations can be made securely online by clicking below or by contacting the site at (717) 733-6600 for a donation card.

 

Thank you for your support,

Gloria Meiskey,

President, Ephrata Cloister Associates