YORK, Pa. — A historic landmark in downtown York is under new ownership.
The Federal Building, which served as the city's first post office following its construction in 1895, has been sold to John and Denise Gilliland, who plan to turn it into a hospitality or entertainment venue, according to a press release from True Commercial Real Estate, which brokered the transaction.
Situated at the corner of West Philadelphia and Beaver streets in the heart of downtown York, the Federal Building has also served as a Masonic lodge and a youth center during its 129-year existence.
The Gilliands bought the building as a "passion project," True Commercial Real Estate said.
"They've been enamored by the beauty and distinct architecture since the first time they walked through the property," the real estate company said of the Gillilands, who have a background in real estate development, food and hospitality.
The new owners are currently seeking a tenant or an operating partner "to help realize their vision of making this building a destination for hospitality, entertainment or both," True Commercial Real Estate said.
The Federal Building served as York's post office until 1911, when it was replaced by a larger, more modern venue. It was bought by several Masonic organizations in 1917, and remained under Masonic ownership until the 1970s, when it was sold to the York Rescue Mission for use as the Lighthouse Youth Center.
Most recently, the building was purchased by Royal Square Development and Construction prior to its sale to the Gillilands, according to True Commercial Real Estate.
The Federal Building and neighboring Gethsemane Hall are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
