Ephrata Borough is located in the northeastern section of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The Borough is the outgrowth of the famed religious community, the Cloisters, founded in the early 1700's by the German mystic Conrad Beissel. When the Cloister community declined in the early 1800's, the village grew as a regional center of commerce. During this time of growth, two resort hotels were built, the Mountain Springs and the Mount Vernon House. The village also became known as a key stop for the Reading and Columbia Railroads.
This rapidly growing village was incorporated on August 22, 1891. The population at the time was about 2,200 people. Six newly elected councilmen organized this new enterprise called Ephrata Borough with a Council/Mayor form of government.
Ephrata's many historic buildings continue to add a special charm and character to the community and serve as an important reminder of the Borough's history. T he community's first bank, Ephrata National Bank, still serves residents today. The Mountain Springs is currently being developed as a hotel complex, and the Railroad Station has been preserved and serves as a community meeting house.
In addition to the historic beauty of the community, there is an abundance of recreation and public service facilities, a recreation center, two movie theaters, a playhouse, a community pool and many parks provide varied sources of entertainment. The Borough also offers both public and private school choices to provide quality education for future generations. Health care services are available at the Ephrata Community Hospital.
Ephrata Borough offers a wide variety of "traditional" municipal services, including a fine police department, code enforcement, and parks and recreation. It also provides sewer and electric utilities and operate the water system of the Ephrata Area Joint Authority. The Borough is committed to offering dependable, low-cost service to the community.
Economic Development plays a vital role in the future success of the Borough. The Borough recently completed a revitalization project in the downtown area to enhance pedestrian safety and improve aesthetics. Their goal is to develop a healthy and prosperous community for today and for the future. The Borough plans to strengthen the economy by utilizing the commercial properties, attracting specialty retailers and revitalizing the historic buildings. Developing these assets will provide a pleasant community in which to live, work and play for many generations to come.
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