Board names Benjamin Neely new president/CEO

The York County History Center Board of Directors approved the appointment of Benjamin Neely as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer. The board made the decision during its June 18 meeting, following the recommendation of the search committee that has been evaluating candidates since March.

Read the full announcement here.

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Spirits of the Past

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Spirits of the Past

Enjoy an unforgettable night at the History Center with our historic mixology program! This beloved program series, Spirits of the Past, we combine history and mixology by focusing on a theme or historic period each program. Each program we also highlight any York connections to the cocktails, and alcohol. Spirits of the Past began in 2022 and has served 20 historic cocktails to date for attendees. Attendees have taken part in making the Mary Pickford, Irish Coffee, and Cherry Bounce Sours to just name a few. Our program sessions include at least one alcoholic beverage with guided instruction, light refreshments and of course the history of the beverage. Tickets are $35 for nonmembers and $25 for members.

Event Featured Image Public Programs (8)

Our 2025 Schedule

March 21

Join us as we celebrate Women’s History with a focus on female bartenders, their cocktails and more!

Our cocktails were the Hanky Panky and the Cosmopolitan.

August 22

We return back to the prohibition era for another session of Spirits of the Past! Cocktail selection and registration are coming soon.

October 24

Join us as we find a spooky twist to cocktails!

Reserve your seat today!

Fri, Aug 22 at 7:00pm

Spirits of the Past

Prohibition Era Cocktails
Drink your way through the history of prohibition with 1 batched cocktail and 1 cocktail class attendees will make. Cocktail selection will be shared soon. This program is for individuals 21 and older. Tickets go on sale in July.
Event Details

  • Spirits Of The Past June 2024
    Attendees make their own mint juleps at the Colonial Complex using fresh mint from the Colonial garden
  • Spirits Of The Past Safe
    Group of attendees learning about the significance of Jameson Whiskey in the Irish Maid.
  • Spirits Of The Past – December
    Eggnog and Sorrel cocktail were enjoyed by all.
  • Spirits Of The Past Pouring
    Christine pours guest’s whisky for cocktail.
  • Spirits Of The Past Audience
    Attendees listen to Valerie speak about Milk Punch.
  • Spirits Of The Past Group
    Selfie time, attendees shared this photo with us on social media from our Sips of Summer session.
  • Spirits Of The Past September 2024
    Valerie highlights the batched drink of the evening Roman Punch.
  • Spirits Of The Past Sharing
    Attendees enjoying their freshly made cocktail.