Mechanicsburg in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Frankenberger Tavern
1801
Photographed By Andrew Ruppenstein, September 29, 2016
1. Frankenberger Tavern Marker
In 1801, George Frankenberger applied for a tavern license, stating a need for lodging on this "deserted" section of the Great Road between Harrisburg and Carlisle. This simple log structure served many drovers moving livestock. For modest fees, a guest was provided with floor space to spread his bedroll, a simple hot meal, and pasture and feed for his animals. The tavern was also home to the Frankenberger family. The tavern sold alcoholic beverages, for consumption in the public room or for take-out. In early America, alcohol was considered a necessity for good health. The tavern helped attract farmers and villagers to the area, and in 1828, the local village was incorporated as the Borough of Mechanicsburg.
George Frankenberger sold the tavern around 1810. Over the years, it became a clapboard covered home, with a third story and additions to the rear. While being demolished to build Frankeberger Place, the old log structure was uncovered. The owners donated it to the Mechanicsburg Museum Association, who moved it, then restored and furnished it.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce
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Location. 40° 12.872′ N, 77° 0.245′ W. Marker is in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, in Cumberland County. Marker is on East Main Street west of North Walnut Street, on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 217 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg PA 17055, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Union Church (approx. 0.2 miles away); Simpson Ferry Road (approx. 0.2 miles away); Occupation of Mechanicsburg (approx. 0.2 miles away); Cumberland Valley Railroad (approx. ¼ mile away); Irving Female College (approx. ¼ mile away); Colestock Home for Old People (approx. 0.6 miles away); Civil War Memorial (approx. 0.6 miles away); Mechanicsburg Cemetery Civil War Memorial Plaza (approx. 0.6 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Mechanicsburg.
Also see . . .
1. Frankeberger Tavern holds ghostly legend, Mechanicsburg history (The Sentinel, Oct. 20, 2013). If there’s a lesson to be learned from the tale of the ghostly drover, it’s this: never brag about having a wad of cash to patrons of a rustic roadside tavern.... (Submitted on October 19, 2016.)
2. Frankenberger Tavern, Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County (MyPennsylvania Blog, 2015). Includes numerous interior photos. (Submitted on October 19, 2016.)
Photographed By Andrew Ruppenstein, September 29, 2016
2. Frankenberger Tavern and Marker - Wide View
Photographed By Andrew Ruppenstein, September 29, 2016
3. Frankenberger Tavern and Marker - Wide View
Credits. This page was last revised on October 19, 2016. It was originally submitted on October 19, 2016, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California. This page has been viewed 510 times since then and 89 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on October 19, 2016, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California.
