Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

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Lancaster County
U.S. county
County of Lancaster
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Coordinates:
Country	United States
Seat	Lancaster
Area
• Total	984 sq mi (2,550 km2)
• Land	944 sq mi (2,440 km2)
• Water	40 sq mi (100 km2)
Population  (2020)
• Total	552,984
• Density	586/sq mi (226/km2)
Website	www.co.lancaster.pa.us

[[Category:{{{state}}} counties]]

Lancaster County is a county located in the south-central part of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. As of the 2020 census, the population was 552,984. Its county seat is Lancaster. The county was created on May 10, 1729, from part of Chester County and named after Lancaster in England.

History

Lancaster County has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1729. It was originally inhabited by the Susquehannock people before European settlers arrived. The county played a significant role during the American Revolutionary War, providing supplies and troops to the Continental Army. Lancaster County is also known for its Pennsylvania Dutch heritage, with a large population of Amish and Mennonite communities.

Geography

Lancaster County covers an area of 984 square miles, of which 944 square miles is land and 40 square miles is water. The county is part of the Piedmont region, characterized by rolling hills and fertile farmland. Major waterways include the Susquehanna River and the Conestoga River.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Lancaster County had a population of 552,984. The county is known for its diverse population, including a significant number of Hispanic and Latino residents. The Amish community is one of the largest in the United States, contributing to the county's unique cultural landscape.

Economy

Lancaster County's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The county is one of the leading agricultural producers in Pennsylvania, known for its dairy farms, poultry, and tobacco. The tourism industry is bolstered by attractions such as Amish Country, Dutch Wonderland, and the Strasburg Rail Road.

Education

The county is served by several public school districts, private schools, and higher education institutions. Notable colleges and universities include Franklin & Marshall College, Millersville University, and the Lancaster Theological Seminary.

Transportation

Lancaster County is well-connected by a network of highways, including U.S. Route 30, U.S. Route 222, and Pennsylvania Route 283. The county also has a public transportation system operated by the Red Rose Transit Authority and is served by the Lancaster Airport.

Points of Interest

• Lancaster Central Market
• Ephrata Cloister
• Landis Valley Museum
• Fulton Theatre
• Rock Ford Plantation

Notable People

• James Buchanan, the 15th President of the United States
• Thaddeus Stevens, a prominent abolitionist and politician
• Robert Fulton, an engineer and inventor

See Also

• List of counties in Pennsylvania
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

External Links

• Official website