The Steinman family’s journey and Drumore Estate began with Christian Frederick Steinman’s arrival in America around 1750. From humble beginnings, they rose to prominence in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Their success is a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit and strong community involvement. Key highlights include:
- The establishment of a hardware business that became a cornerstone of the community.
- Andrew Jackson Steinman’s leadership in the newspaper industry, starting with the Lancaster Intelligencer.
- John Frederick Steinman’s creation of Drumore Estate, a majestic Georgian mansion that now serves as a premier event venue.
Today, Drumore Estate stands as a vibrant testament to the Steinman family’s enduring legacy. It seamlessly blends historical charm with breathtaking natural beauty. Its transformation into a premier wedding and event venue not only preserves the family’s heritage but also continues to enrich Lancaster County’s cultural fabric.
The Legacy of the Steinman Family
Christian Frederick Steinman, a Moravian immigrant from Dresden, Germany, made his way to the American colonies around 1750. Christian, whose lineage would eventually lead to the establishment of Drumore Estate, was the great-great grandfather of its builder. After settling in Bethlehem with his wife Anna Regina, the couple had a son, John Frederick Steinman. He would become the great grandfather of the man who would later build Drumore.
Not long after John Frederick’s birth, the family moved to Lititz, where Christian Frederick passed away in 1760. Following his death, Anna Regina remarried Johann Christian Heyne. He was a man who would shape the Steinman family’s future in significant ways.
Steinman Hardware Store
Under Johann Christian Heyne’s guidance, the family relocated to Lancaster, where he purchased the “Iron House” from John Miller on West King Street. This would later become the site of the Steinman Hardware Store, marking the foundation of what would become the formidable Steinman empire. The hardware business would evolve into a central part of the community. It laid the groundwork for the Steinmans’ rise to prominence in the region.
The distinctive Queen Anne-style architecture, still evident in the west end of Lancaster, is a testament to the Steinman family’s influence on the city. Several historic mansions, including the former Steinman Hardware Store, remain as private residences. Designed by R.S. Kennedy in 1886, the store stands out as the finest example, showcasing intricate details and architectural grandeur.
In 1777, John Frederick Steinman married Sybilla Margaretha Mayer. He was the son of Christian Frederick Steinman, They had seven children, and it was their son, John Frederick Jr., who would ultimately inherit his father’s hardware business in 1811, establishing himself as one of Lancaster’s most influential citizens.
John Frederick Jr. was a successful businessman. He was also a key figure in local development, helping to incorporate the Conestoga Navigation Company in 1825. This company played a pivotal role in constructing the Slackwater Canal. The canal stretched along the Conestoga River from Lancaster to Safe Harbor, fostering the city’s connection with both river and ocean-going traffic.
Lancaster Intelligencer
John Frederick Jr. was married twice. His first wife, Maria Gill, tragically passed away shortly after giving birth to their daughter, Mary Gill Steinman. In 1824, he remarried Mary Smith Fahnestock. Their youngest child, Andrew Jackson Steinman, would be the one to carry the Steinman legacy forward in a new direction—through the world of newspapers.
Born in 1836, Andrew Jackson Steinman was a well-educated and dynamic individual. He attended Lancaster public schools before graduating from Yale University. A staunch Democrat and active member of the Lancaster City Democratic Committee, Andrew also practiced law before stepping into the world of media.
In 1866, he became the editor and publisher of the Lancaster Intelligencer, a publication that had served the Lancaster community since 1794. Andrew remained at the helm of the paper until his death in 1917, during which time he built a legacy that would continue to thrive under his family’s leadership.
In 1882, Andrew married Caroline Morgan Hale, and together they had two sons: James Hale (born in 1886) and John Frederick (born in 1884). The brothers took over the family business in 1915, transforming it into Lancaster Newspapers, Inc. Their success expanded beyond traditional publishing, as in 1923, they began publishing the Sunday News and acquired the Lancaster New Era in 1928.
Lasting Legacy
They also explored radio and television, acquiring WGAL from 1929 to 1979, until anti-trust laws forced them to divest. James Hale married Louise McClure Tinsley in 1922 and had three daughters: Louise, Caroline, and Margaret (Peggy).
When James Hale passed away in 1962, his brother John Frederick took the reins of the family’s media empire. John Frederick, a reserved but active community member, was educated at prestigious schools, including Yeates, Hotchkiss, and Yale University.
He contributed significantly to the local community, serving on the board of Lancaster General Hospital and founding the John Frederick Steinman Fellowship. This provided funding for advanced studies in psychiatry, psychology, and social work. He was also an avid hunter, with a notable affiliation to the Groundhogs, a group he valued because of his residence in the southern end of the county.
The Steinmans’ legacy was marked by frequent and distinguished social gatherings. The Eisenhowers were among their guests, and it is said that Bobby Kennedy once spent the night at their home.
The Creation of Drumore Estate
In 1938, John Frederick Steinman had made his mark in the media world. It was during this time that he sought a peaceful retreat on a hilltop in Lancaster County. He carefully selected a site located on the second-highest peak of the county. This offered a panoramic view that extended all the way to his newspaper office in downtown Lancaster.
To bring his vision to life, Steinman enlisted renowned Philadelphia architect Robert R. McGoodwin to design a grand 16,000 square foot Georgian mansion. The design was tailored to complement the surrounding natural beauty. This ensured that the estate would serve as both a haven and a showcase of refinement.
Work began in 1939, and mature trees were transplanted onto the property to create a lasting landscape. Among the most notable features are the towering sycamores that line the long driveway, a striking element that remains a hallmark of the estate today. John Frederick Steinman envisioned Drumore Estate as a place for entertaining. He added expansive patios, balconies, porches, pools, and fountains that nestled throughout the Formal Gardens.
The estate’s dramatic wedding aisle leads brides up a set of stairs from the mansion to an entrance through the gardens. It is one of the most spectacular features of the property. The adjacent Fountain Garden offers a serene and scenic view across the Susquehanna River Valley. This provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable event.
Steinman’s affection for Drumore Estate was evident in his daily life. He lived there until his passing in 1980, and the estate remained his personal refuge, designed to reflect both his love for nature and his flair for entertaining.
Drumore Estate Today
Drumore Estate now stands as a stunning historic venue, open to the public for special events, particularly weddings. For over two decades, Bill and Karyn Regitz have dedicated themselves to making the estate a premier wedding destination in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Their meticulous attention to detail and passion for delivering unforgettable experiences have made Drumore Estate a highly sought-after location for couples seeking their dream wedding.
The estate offers a variety of amenities and spaces to accommodate weddings of all sizes:
- The property spans 70 acres of lush greenery, featuring formal gardens, fountains, and a historic Georgian mansion.
- The Grand Tent can host up to 400 guests, while the climate-controlled Carriage House and Ballroom accommodate 150 and 80 guests respectively.
- A beautiful Bridal Suite and comfortable Groom’s Lounge are provided for wedding party preparation.
- The estate offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony sites, with breathtaking views stretching across the Susquehanna River Valley.
With the help of in-house wedding planners, a culinary team, and event staff, Bill and Karyn ensure that every aspect of a wedding is handled with care. Drumore Estate provides comprehensive wedding packages, including catering, rentals, and bar services, making it an all-inclusive venue option.
The estate’s rich history, combined with its natural beauty and modern amenities, offers a perfect blend of elegance and tranquility. Its transformation into a sought-after venue for weddings and special events ensures that the Steinman family’s legacy continues to impact Lancaster County, while providing unforgettable experiences for new generations.