1897

Keppel Candy Co. was founded by Robert F. Keppel Sr., his brother and their mother in their home kitchen, located on Locust Street in Lancaster City. The Keppel business, later known as Keppel’s Inc., grew significantly into a well-known employer and manufacturer overtime.

1913

The Keppel Building was built on the 300 Block of Queen Street in downtown Lancaster by the local renowned architect, C. Emlen Urban.

1914

The newly constructed building originally housed Jacob G. Shirk and Sons cigar manufacturing, wholesale, and warehouse operations.

1916-1987

Robert Keppel & Brother Company, Inc. purchased the building from Jacob G. Shirk and Sons. The Robert Keppel & Brother Company, Inc. went on to be the areas leading chocolatier for over 70 years.

1956

A metal chute was added to the outside of the landmark used for pumping sugar to a storage area on the roof. From there, the sugar was pulled down by gravity to several points in the plant where it was needed. Today, the sugar system is still visible on the exterior of the building.

1987-2014

Following the Keppel Candy Co. The Keppel Building has served various uses such as an artist studio, retail, and commercial space including The Candy Factory, Lancaster’s premier coworking space.

2016

The Keppel Building was purchased by Pittsburgh-based developer, Zamagias Properties. Renovation began to turn The Keppel Building to house 38 upscale apartments and commercial space. The one-bedroom or two-bedroom units for rent feature breathtaking views of Lancaster City. The 17,000 square feet located on the lower floors are reserved for commercial space, suitable for stores, a restaurant, and offices.

For more information on The Keppel Building and available listings, please visit www.hometownpms.com.