Historic Smithton Inn Celebrates 250 years of Hospitality
In June of 1763, Henry Miller II and his wife Suzanna competed construction of the Henry Miller Tavern, replacing the primitive wood structure that his father, a household member of the Ephrata Cloister, had built in the 1730s. Fast forward to 2013…the present-day owners are excited to celebrate 250 years of history, character and charm with guests and the local community. During our year-long Semiquincentennial Celebration, we invite you to learn about the people who have lived here, the architecture and evolution of the property and the wonderful community where we reside.
Community Appreciation Events
A celebration is so much sweeter when you can do it with others! That was precisely our thought when we were considering how we should celebrate the Historic Smithon’s milestone anniversary. We’ve planned a series of events throughout the year that will both involve and give back to the community we love. We hope you’ll help us celebrate by attending one or all the festivities planned!
NOTE: For all these events, parking is at the Ephrata Recreation Center, a block up from the Smithton
Thursday, February 21 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm |
Ephrata Area Chamber of Commerce -Business After Hours Benefitting Ephrata Area Social Services The Historic Smithton Inn kicks off our year-long Anniversary celebration in conjunction with our local business community. We’ve chosen special partners to help us celebrate this milestone – NEW members of the community we’d like to showcase:
- Food will be provided by Aromas del Sur, Intermezzo by Stephanie and Wahtney’s.
- Beverages will be provided by St. Boniface Craft Beers
- Chair Massages will be provided by Knead-It Massage.
- Additionally, we ask that attendees bring canned good donation(s) for Ephrata Area Social Services. Each donation will be exchanged for a chance to win a free night’s stay at the Historic Smithton Inn.
(photography by www.capturingtimephoto.co)
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Sunday, April 21 10:30 am – 2:30 pm |
Jazz Brunch and Open House Benefitting Ephrata School District’s Music Program Admission includes:
- Buffet breakfast with assorted hot and cold choices
- Coffee, Decaf, Tea and Hot Chocolate
- A tour of the Historic Smithton Inn and selected guest rooms
- Jazz performances by Ephrata students
- Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children under 10, and free for children under 3
- Also: Bring a book to donate to the Ephrata Public Library for a chance to win a free night's stay at the Historic Smithton Inn.
(photography by http://www.karlophoto.com/)
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Friday, June 21 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm |
250th Anniversary Gala Benefitting the Historic Ephrata Cloister and the Historical Society of the Cocalico Valley Black Tie or Period Dress Optional Event… Admission includes:
- Hors d’Oeuvres, Dinner and Dessert
- Beer, Wine, Soda and assorted hot beverages
- Live entertainment and dancing
- Photo Booth
- Commemorative Gift

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Sunday, August 25 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm |
Back to School Ice Cream Social Benefitting the Ephrata Area Education Foundation Great family fun on the day before school starts... Admission includes:
- Ice Cream with Make-Your-Own Sundae Bar
- Fancy Popcorn Bar
- Live Magician
- Live Mucic
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| Wednesday, September 25 |
Float in the Ephrata Parade Want to walk in the parade with us? YEAH! The more the merrier, just let us know so we can make up a special t-shirt for you.
(no charge, but we need your size!)
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Sunday, November 3 1:00 – 6:00 pm |
Historic Smithton Hootenanny! Benefitting the Ephrata Recreation Center Admission includes:
- Live Music by various folk & acoustic performers
- Tasty BBQ and other delicious food
- Bring your own non-alcoholic beverages
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Sunday, December 1 TBD
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Countdown to Christmas Clock Lighting, Caroling and Ornament Making Benefitting the Ephrata Cloister Choir Admission includes:
- Christmas Caroling
- Make your own ornaments
- Snacks, Christmas Cookies, Hot Chocolate... you know, good holiday stuff!
- A tour of the Historic Smithton Inn and selected guest rooms
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Anniversary Specials
Returning Guests Special: We love our returning guests and want to thank each and every one of you for helping us achieve the success we’ve enjoyed since purchasing the Smithton in 2009. Returning guests can purchase our commemorative Deneen Pottery coffee mugs or other commemorative items at 50% off. Applies to returning guests who book a room any time in 2013, does not apply to online purchases.