WHILE INSPIRATION IS NOT PARTICULAR TO PLACE, some places are, by nature, inspiring. Mt. Gretna seems to be one of those places.
Like a step back in time, Mount Gretna has managed to maintain the graciousnessof an earlier era.
Home to the original and still-active Pennsylvania Chautauqua, the community buildings stand as they did 100 years ago. The Hall of Philosophy and the Literary and Scientific Building are in near-original neo-classic greek-temple style, complete with pillars and porches.
The Gretna Playhouse and the Tabernacle, both circa 1890's, are massive displays of craftmanship. The circular timber-frames have no central posts—every seat has a great view. They have inspired generations of actors, musicians, lecturers, artists and writers.
Welcome to 501 Sixth Street
Three hundred steps from the Tabernacle, eight hundred steps from the Playhouse, 501 Sixth Street is a true "Gretna Cottage," full of charm and almost a century of character.
The cottage's best feature might be the porch— wrapping from the 5th street drive-up entrance to the 6th street front door. A close rival is the original claw-foot bathtub ... and then there's the wonderful views down 5th and 6th streets. Tour the cottage. . .