New Holland

When settlers arrived in 1728, New Holland was once known as “Saeue Schwam,” which translates to Hog Swamp, a nod to its low-lying wetlands. However, as this rural Lancaster County borough underwent suburbanization, the landscape transformed from a chestnut and oak forest to a fertile expanse of farmland, laying the foundation for a thriving agricultural community.

Like its name, New Holland is reminiscent of a traditional European town. It boasts a layout centered around Main Street, where businesses and homes seamlessly intermingle, creating a cozy, small-town ambiance. The New Holland Area Historical Society, housed in the historic Kauffman’s Hardware building, is devoted to preserving the village’s history and relics.

Vast farmlands encircle the community, and Pennsylvania Route 23 is the primary thoroughfare linking residents to the nearby Downtown Lancaster, just 14 miles away from a vibrant cultural scene.

Diverse architectural styles dot New Holland’s neighborhoods, showcasing historic American-Four Square and Victorian homes adorned with inviting wrap-around porches. While ranch-style houses offer panoramic views of the serene countryside and rustling cornfields. Modernized traditional homes and brick Colonials are nestled within subdivisions, contrasting the town’s agrarian roots. Prices in New Holland range from $330,000 for a three-bedroom to $450,000 for a historic house with up to six-bedrooms.

The Eastern Lancaster County School District, with an overall B rating according to Niche, serves the community. New Holland Elementary School welcomes the youngest learners, while Garden Spot Middle School engages students with after-school sports like football and field hockey. Garden Spot High School carries forward this extracurricular focus through its Technology Student Association and Performing Arts program.

Embracing the arts, The New Holland Summer Arts Association orchestrates creative events at New Holland Park, from craft shows to live musical performances of folk, country and rock. The park itself acts as a central gathering space, offering a wooden sea-themed playscape, tennis courts and a public swimming pool. Groff Park will be getting a butterfly garden courtesy of the association, which provides peaceful walking trails amidst lush greenery. You can also explore the New Holland Band Museum within the Eastern Lancaster County Library, showcasing an extensive collection of instruments and memorabilia since the band’s inception in 1829.

Strolling along Main Street reveals charming shops, from clock stores, barbers and galleries, embodying New Holland’s inviting character. Tannery Antiques allures locals with eclectic garden items, while Lucky Dog Thrift offers a peek into vintage fashion. For everyday essentials, head to Grocery Outlet or Garden Spot Farm Market, offering fresh off-the-farm produce, eggs and florals.

Start your morning with a cup of coffee at New Holland Coffee Company, a bright, modern café with a wide selection of drinks and breakfast pastries. Grab the family and get a table at Yoder’s Restaurant, a buffet-style eatery serving classic Pennsylvania Dutch home cooking. Or allow your tastebuds to travel to Palermo Pizza & Italian Restaurant, a casual local spot with authentic pasta, pizza and subs. For a sweet treat, Lickity Split is an old-fashioned ice cream and sandwich shop scooping up creamy cones and milkshakes and weekly lunch specials.

You won’t want to miss out on the New Holland Farmers Fair, celebrating the village’s agricultural legacy. Established in 1927, the fair showcases livestock shows, rides, local vendors and food paying homage to New Holland’s farming heritage.

Written By

Pao Cordero