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Eicher Arts Center

Our Purpose

The Eicher Arts Center is a non-profit organization charged with overall administration of the historical Eicher House and Indian Museum facilities. Creating an appreciation of these fascinating buildings and history the Eicher Arts Center fosters the community and public to participate in a variety of activities through intellectual and artistic contributions of individuals.

Cherish The Past

During the year 1724, Conrad Beissel, a charismatic religious leader and later founder of the Ephrata Cloister, born in Eberbach, Germany in 1691, was credited with baptizing Daniel Eicher, his wife, three daughters and a son. In 1733, Anna and Maria Eicher left home to become the first two “Sisters” to assume the solitary life. They lived in a cabin built for them in 1733 by members of the Brotherhood, across the Cocalico Creek from the Ephrata Cloister, now housing the Eicher Indian Museum Shop.  In 1734, Daniel Eicher acquired a 100-acre patent from William Penn and built his house, now the Eicher House, next to his two daughter’s cabin.

Current Facility Usage

The Eicher House and grounds are available for private parties, business meetings, wedding receptions and public gatherings. The Eicher’s Sisters’ Cabin currently houses the Eicher Indian Museum Shop featuring many historic artifacts and specializes in handcrafted authentic native American Indian jewelry.

Locating or Contacting Us

The Eicher Arts Center is located on Cocalico Street in Ephrata Grater Park, adjacent to the American Legion and the Ephrata Playhouse in the Park on the banks of the Cocalico Creek. For reservations and information, please call (717) 738-3084.