The Lancaster Life

As you walk around Lancaster city, you may notice historic homes with a greenish stone facade.

This stone is known as serpentine. Around the start of the 20th century, serpentine stone was mined in southern Lancaster County.

A vein of the stone can be seen on this geological map of Lancaster County from 1872.

Serpentine stone got its name because it is said to resemble the skin of a snake. Veins of serpentine are relatively rare. They exist in Japan and Australia. Lancaster County was once one of the largest sources of serpentine stone.

Today, you can see serpentine on historic homes in Lancaster city. Check out the entire block of N. Duke Street between New Street and Clay Street. There are also a few fine examples in the west end of Lancaster city, on Chestnut Street and Orange Street in particular.

If anyone has more knowledge of serpentine stone or the features of these historic Lancaster homes, please drop me a note or post some pictures.

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My name is Dean Rock. I earn my living as a realtor in Lancaster PA, but this is not a sales-oriented website. This project stems from my long-standing interest in writing, photography and historic Lancaster homes. I value the Lancaster Life because it connects me to people all over Lancaster County who share my interests and concerns. Please contribute your thoughts and photos.