History abounds at Historic Shady Lane. One year after George Washington took his first oath of office, the Hake family built a distillery above a spring-fed stream, which was essential for brewing whiskey and other spirits. That distillery was built on what would become Historic Shady Lane over 220 years later.  In 1825, the Hake family constructed a large stone farmhouse for their family. The estate passed through many hands, but none were arguably as great as its owner from 1905 to 1948.

Over one hundred years ago, Frederick Small, a Yale graduate, York industrialist, and the developer of York's Elmwood commmunity, purchased the estate grounds and farmland. Mr. Small owned a mansion in York City and used the estate for his summer home where his family could entertain their vast network of friends.

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In 1948, after Mr. Small had passed, his estate sold to a family from the Emigsville area who owned it until 2003. The estate at that time was used as a nature preserve and a private residence. Since then, the estate has been preserved through The Farm and Natural Land Trust and its new owners, the Kohr's, have been quietly restoring the buildings and grounds.

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They began with the 1825 farmhouse, which became the busy center of activity for their four sons. After several years, the 1770 distillery was fully refurbished to become a private residence. And now the Brownstone Cottage built in 1911 by Frederick Small for his spinster sister, serves as the Cottage for one of our wedding day suites. 

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Each year, the Kohr family opens the estate to over 70 couples to host their weddings, and they also welcome small parties, showers and corporate events. 

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Today, the estate is enjoying a new era. From family to family and into its third century, Historic Shady Lane welcomes you and your partner, family, and friends to create your own history.

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Photo © Amanda Naylor