Hanover, PA — The Hanover Area Historical Society (HAHS) is proud to announce the purchase of the former Bank of Hanover building, 25 Carlisle Street, marking a significant milestone in its mission to preserve, protect and promote the rich history of the Hanover community. The historic 1906 building will become the Society’s new history museum and headquarters, creating a permanent home where residents and visitors can explore Hanover’s unique past.
The acquisition was made possible by a donation from Terrence and Monna Hormel, who recognized the importance of preserving this iconic piece of Hanover’s history. Their vision and extraordinary generosity have ensured that one of the community’s most recognizable historic landmarks will continue to serve the public for generations to come. An additional pledge of support for the community campaign has been received from the J. William Warehime Foundation.
“We are absolutely thrilled to secure a permanent home for Hanover’s rich history right in the heart of downtown,” said Terri Altland, Executive Director of the Hanover Area Historical Society. “The former Bank of Hanover building is a piece of history in its own right. By transforming this landmark into a modern, accessible museum, we are not just preserving our past—we are investing heavily in Hanover’s future.”
The Historical Society is pleased to be working in partnership with Jordan Ilyes of Tailored Real Estate, who has acquired the adjoining property at 33 Carlisle Street. Under this collaborative effort, that portion of the property will be transformed into a vibrant mixed-use space featuring commercial businesses and residential units, complimenting the museum while contributing to the continued revitalization of downtown Hanover. As part of his redevelopment plans, Ilyes also intends to reopen the property parking lot for public use, restoring a valuable downtown parking resource for residents, visitors, and local businesses.
Together, the two projects represent a thoughtful balance of historic preservation and community development, ensuring that the property remains an active and meaningful part of Hanover’s future.
Planning for the museum is already underway, with HAHS and Ilyes beginning work on the buildings this summer and a community fundraising campaign for the museum to follow. Additional details about the project, opportunities to support, and the anticipated opening will be shared as plans progress.
The Historical Society extends its sincere appreciation to Ryan Myers of Bennett Williams Commerical for coordinating the joint sale of the property.
For more information about the project or to learn how you can support the Hanover Area Historical Society, please visit www.hanoverpahistory.org.
About the Hanover Area Historical Society
Founded to preserve, protect and promote the historical story of the greater Hanover area, the Hanover Area Historical Society oversees several local landmarks, including the 1783 Neas House and the Warehime-Myers Mansion. Through its museums, library and archives located within the Guthrie Memorial Library and educational programs, HAHS connects generations by preserving the stories, artifacts, and architecture that define Hanover’s unique identity.
About Tailored Real Estate, LLC
Specializing in the revitalization of historic buildings throughout York and Adams Counties, Tailored Real Estate transforms forgotten structures into vibrant homes and thriving commercial spaces. Our work breathes new energy into communities, creating not only places to live and work, but also opportunities for local growth and meaningful connection.