The Fenstermacher House - Ashland, PA.

03/03/2026

Big momentum for historic preservation in Ashland! 🏛️✨

A PHMC Planning Grant application has officially been submitted for the historic Fenstermacher House on Centre Street — an important step toward protecting and planning for the future of this architectural treasure.

At the same time, we are currently awaiting results from the Preservation Pennsylvania At-Risk nomination. Being considered at the state level helps shine a spotlight on the importance of preserving this historic landmark and strengthening our downtown corridor.

Progress is happening — and every step forward matters.

Stay tuned for updates as we continue working to protect Ashland’s history and build its future!

02/14/2026

Great News for Ashland!

The Fenstermacher–Eastlake Building has received a Determination of Eligibility for listing in the National Register of Historic Places from the Pennsylvania State Historic Preservation Office.

This determination recognizes the building’s architectural and historical significance and adds to the growing documentation of Ashland’s historic resources.

Historic preservation plays an important role in community revitalization, neighborhood stability, and maintaining the character that makes Ashland unique. Recognizing and documenting these assets helps position our town for thoughtful long-term planning and reinvestment.

Preserving our past helps shape a stronger future for Ashland. 🏛️

02/13/2026

📌 Project Update

We’ve officially entered the 7-day countdown while awaiting a Determination of Eligibility (DOE) from Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission PHMC.

Each milestone moves us one step closer to protecting Ashland’s historic resources and unlocking future funding opportunities.

02/13/2026

✅ 2026 PA At Risk Nomination Submitted!

We’re proud to share that a nomination has officially been submitted to Preservation Pennsylvania At Risk program.

If selected, this designation can bring:
✔️ Increased recognition and publicity
✔️ Advocacy support
✔️ Media exposure
✔️ Valuable networking opportunities

All important steps toward protecting and revitalizing Ashland’s historic resources.

More to come as we move forward! 💛🏛️

02/01/2026

Preservationists Honored

This historic newspaper clipping documents a time when the Fenstermacher Building was formally recognized for its preservation and architectural significance.

In 1981, the building received the Best Preserved Building award, presented with involvement from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the Schuylkill Preservation Alliance.

Long before today’s conversations, this building was already valued as an important part of Ashland’s historic commercial fabric. Preservation here isn’t a new idea—it’s a legacy worth continuing.

Newspaper clipping courtesy of Adam Bernodin III, Ashland.

01/22/2026

Did you know?
Being identified as “at risk” does not mean a historic property is beyond saving. In many cases, it highlights an opportunity to plan responsibly, seek technical guidance, and pursue preservation funding.

We’re sharing this resource from Preservation Pennsylvania to help explain how the historic preservation process works as we continue learning and planning for the long-term stewardship of historic homes like the Fenstermacher House.

📣 2026 PA AT RISK NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN!

Each year, Pennsylvania At Risk draws attention to endangered historic properties across the Commonwealth, raising awareness, rallying support, and helping spark creative solutions to save these places.

If you know a place at risk – whether threatened by demolition, neglect, or changing development pressures – we encourage you to submit it. Your nomination helps ensure Pennsylvania’s irreplaceable stories are not lost.

👉 Submit your nominations by February 9, 2026: https://preservationpa.com/pa-at-risk/

01/22/2026

A Proud Chapter in the Fenstermacher House’s History

This historic newspaper clipping documents a time when the building at Centre Street in Ashland was recognized for excellence in preservation. The structure received a Schuylkill Preservation Alliance Award as one of the best-preserved buildings in the county, reflecting its architectural significance and careful stewardship.

Moments like this remind us that the Fenstermacher House has long been valued as an important part of Ashland’s built heritage. As the preservation process moves forward today, this recognition serves as both inspiration and responsibility — honoring past care while planning for its future.

Historic preservation is a continuum, and this building’s story is still being written.

Verbatim text from original newspaper clipping:

“Award winner.

The James Klock building at 515 Centre Street, Ashland, received a Schuylkill Preservation Alliance Award for the best preserved building in the county. The alliance described the structure as Italianette design. Occupants are the Klock Interior Design firm and Diana’s Beauty Shop. Helping in the selection was Michael O’Malley of the State Bureau of Preservation. (Alliance photo)”

This historic newspaper clipping has been lightly enhanced for clarity. Text is transcribed verbatim from the original.

01/20/2026

What Does “Historic Eligibility” Mean?

After submitting the Determination of Eligibility for the Fenstermacher House, we wanted to share a brief explanation of what this step involves.

A Determination of Eligibility is part of the historic preservation process used to evaluate whether a property meets established criteria for historic significance. This review looks at factors such as age, architectural integrity, historical context, and the role a building played in the community’s development.

Eligibility does not mean that restoration work begins immediately, nor does it guarantee funding. Instead, it helps establish whether a property may qualify for historic preservation programs and grants and guides how future work should be approached.

Waiting for this determination ensures that any future preservation efforts respect the historic character of the Fenstermacher House and follow best practices.

Updates will be shared as the review process continues.

01/19/2026

Determination of Eligibility Submitted!
Preservation work often begins long before construction starts.

On January 17, 2026, the Determination of Eligibility for the Fenstermacher House has officially been submitted for review as part of the historic preservation process. This stem helps determine whether the property meets criteria for listing and eligibility for historic preservation grant programs.

While we await the review, no physical restoration work will begin. This ensures that future preservation efforts follow best practices and respect the historic integrity of the home.

Updates will be shared as the process moves forward.

01/19/2026

The Fenstermacher House – Ashland, PA is a privately owned historic residence located on Centre Street in Ashland, Pennsylvania. Built in the late 19th century, the home reflects the architectural character and cultural history of Ashland during a period of growth and development.

This page documents the ongoing preservation and restoration of the Fenstermacher House, with a focus on historic integrity, education, and heritage tourism. Restoration efforts are guided by best practices in historic preservation and supported through private investment, community interest, and historic preservation grant programs.

The Fenstermacher House is intended to serve as a contributing historic resource that celebrates Ashland’s past while supporting its future.