08/29/2026
2026 has been a big year for the 20 West Main building, with Mainspring announcing just a few weeks ago that Historic Preservation Easements have officially been placed! This piece of Ephrata's History is here to stay, and we're stoked that we get to be a part of it.
But... we also acknowledge that there's a ton of history that pre-dates G&G, and we'd love to share a little bit of that history with you now!
Constructed in 1883 by well-known and highly esteemed citizen, Jacob Longenecker, the brick building at 20 West Main appears much the same now as it did then. Starting his life very poor, Jacob Longenecker learned frugal and industrial habits that helped him acquire great wealth later in life. He was one of the largest landholders in Ephrata township, owning, in addition to other property, three large farms. All of which were in an excellent state of cultivation. Mr. Longenecker retired from farming at age 57, and at age 74, he constructed and took residence in the 20 West Main building along with his wife, Salome.
In 1889, the 20 West Main building was deeded to Jacob & Salome’s daughter, Emma Rupp, and the property remained in the hands of the Rupp family until 1978. Through the years, the building served as a combination residence and professional offices. It was home to Dr. and Mrs. John Baum for a total of ten years, spanning from 1910 to 1920. And in 1920 it was occupied by Dr. James W. and Sallie (Rupp) Keath.
In 1978, the building was purchased by Hummer Development, Inc. and was almost immediately sold to Charles and Joanne Good, who opened “Le Bath & Art Gallery" in 1979. This business closed in 1988, and the real estate was sold at public auction to Ronald and Joan Bernhardt. The couple reopened “Le Bath,” but the business closed permanently just a few years later. In 1995 the building was purchased by Timothy and Hilda Sheldon who own “Sheldon’s Gallery & Frame Shop.” They are currently located in the building next to us, at 18 West main! And on Thursday, November 15, 2018, Griddle & Grind opened its doors to the public for the very first time.
Today we're also excited to announce that the 20 West Main building is adding another tenant to its list...
Coming mid-October, Turtle Hill Candle Company is taking over the second floor of 20 West Main to offer downtown Ephrata a unique retail experience with their very own gift shop! Stay tuned for more information and updates as we walk the journey to grand opening!
And the rest... the rest is history!