THE PAST

The complex seen today is the result of the formation of the Sprenger Brewery in 1852. But the story starts (as seen in the lower lobby) with an original deed dated 1774 which lists the first transaction took place on November 16, 1737 – known as the “Hamilton Plots” to the attorney that laid out the original “boro” of what was to become the City of Lancaster incorporated in 1742. There was a sequence of many transfers and buildings until John A Sprenger purchased the properties in 1851 for $5,000. By 1852, Sprenger completed the first structure, “the Sprenger Brewery” – which is now the location of the “Catacombs” & “Bridal Chamber”. Twenty years later in 1873 he built “Excelsior Hall”, as a “gathering hall for people to meet, enjoy and congregate” (and a means to sell his brew) which is now the “Grande Salon & Empire Room.” In the late 1800’s during the time of brewing industry monopolization, the Sprenger Brewery was forced to close on the King site. The property then became home to the Westenberger, Maley & Myers furniture store on November 25, 1905. They added to the frontage on King Street (shown in the early 1900’s picture above) and enclosed what was the stables and carriage house ( in the rear of the property) into a massive store and warehouse. But as economics changed, so did the success of “downtown department stores” replaced by popular shopping malls. Eventually, all the downtown Lancaster stores closed in the late 70s and early “80’s. Westernberger closed its doors in 1977. The properties went vacant for the next 38 years and became a hazard to the city. So the City of Lancaster took control to protect the Historic value. Many attempts were made to restore the grandeur of Excelsior Hall and the Sprenger Brewery. Finally in 2015, Kelly and John Dantinne purchased the properties and restored these wonderful buildings with the intention of resurrecting the concept of a 21st century “gathering hall, for all to meet, enjoy and congregate” in the grandeur of Excelsior. Their vision became a reality making Excelsior the premier event space in downtown Lancaster, PA for various events and celebrations to take place!

The Present

The extensive & inspired renovations truly capture the essence of the history of these buildings, while also possess an entrancing modern & eclectic vibe. The capacity, dimensions and grandeur of its many rooms (as well as two open air green spaces) have given this property an unsurpassed appeal as a one-of-a-kind venue. Each space was designed to be uniquely different but connected – to create a unique and sophisticated atmosphere. The Entrance and Lobby on the first floor – connects all the unique spaces with modern design features that creates the flow throughout all the spaces, inside and outside.

Of most importance and quite rare for a city venue – is Excelsior’s combination of Indoor to Outdoor spaces that offer a refreshing ambiance throughout this alluring property. The Grande Salon on the first floor – continues the heritage of the Excelsior “gathering hall” with its original tin ceiling, plaster patina walls, cast iron columns and sweeping stair case. Collectively, these features help to create a party and gathering vibe that certainly existed 125 years ago. The Terrace also connects on the first floor. This recent restructure replaced an old warehouse to be transformed into a secluded open air deck. The architectural design highlights the “structure of the early 1900’s industrial period complete with I - Beams, glass and copper rising three stories high. The space is softened with a large “green living wall" comprised of ten different varieties of succulents. Additionally, there are trellising hops that were added as a nod to the property's brewing history roots.

The Catacombs, on the lower level, is where John A. Sprenger started brewing his Lancaster beers in 1852. The original brewer's limestone vaults are intact and connect to the Garden Courtyard and Lobby with beautifully restored stone walls and modern wrap around lighting features. The Garden Courtyard on the lower level connects to the Lower Lobby and Catacombs. The garden was carefully designed to be a “green and serene” environment. The surrounding building walls are ensconced in green ivy, and a floating pergola, water fountains and lily pond complete the setting. Truly this is downtown tranquility at its finest. The Empire Room on the second floor - tops off the property. This spacious and elegant room was designed to echo the grandeur of large music halls of the 2nd French Empire era.

Excelsior Renovations: Before & Afters