The market house, an 1888 Romanesque Revival brick structure designed by local Architect John A. Dempwolf, long has stood out as one of York’s premier examples of Architecture. Architect Frank Dittenhafer is passing the legacy of serving on its board to Architectural Designer Harper Brockway.
After 15 years of dedicated service, Architect and Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects President Frank Dittenhafer, FAIA, LEED AP, will step down (due to mandatory term limits) from the York Central Market board this summer.
In his stead, M&D Architectural Designer Harper Brockway, an advocate for the market's rich history and community impact, will join the board.
Dittenhafer has been an integral part of the York Central Market board. As the longest-serving current member, he has witnessed the market’s challenges and successes. Dittenhafer has played a significant role in the revitalization and restoration of the market, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. He has helped to ensure its continued relevance to the York community.
A longtime passion
Dittenhafer’s passion for Central Market stems from his early days as an Architecture student at Penn State University. He always regarded Central Market, designed by renowned local Architect John A. Dempwolf, as his favorite building in York, considering it the heart of the community. Even during the market's more challenging times, Dittenhafer stood firm in his belief that it should be preserved and celebrated.
His dedication and vision have been instrumental in shaping the market into the venue it is today.
During his tenure on the board, Dittenhafer has brought a unique perspective to the market house. He has successfully balanced modern ideas and approaches while maintaining respect for the historical significance of the building. When the sale of Central Market was considered in the early 2000s, Dittenhafer's unwavering commitment helped preserve this cultural gem.
“I was a new board member when things were not necessarily going so well,” Dittenhafer recalls.
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His contributions to updating the building and the market’s operations have ensured that it could continue to serve as a place for the community to gather, connect, and enjoy local products.
Shortly after he joined the board, it enlisted The Food Trust from Philadelphia to conduct an assessment of the market. It took an in-depth look at operations, the vendor mix, and the building. With a list of key suggestions for improvement, Dittenhafer and the board set a course toward a stronger, more viable future.
“That started conversations about upgrading in a more strategic, planned, and cohesive way that supported the market and engaged the community,” he says.
During his time on the board, Dittenhafer has overseen numerous renovations, repairs, and exciting new insertions to the Central Market building.
Architectural Designer Harper Brockway
A new generation
Stepping into Dittenhafer’s shoes on the board will be Brockway, who has a fervor for Central Market's history. Brockway’s connection to the market began as a student at Penn State, where her final senior thesis examined Pennsylvania markets with a specific focus on Central Market. Her research and understanding of markets, combined with her love of York, make her an excellent addition to the board.
“Central Market has a great impact on the community and has a long history of doing that,” Brockway says.
Her role on the board will involve contributing to the oversight and development of the market. Her experience working with Dittenhafer on a package of required repairs has provided her with a solid foundation for understanding the market's needs. Brockway's proximity to the market ― a five-minute walk from her office ― and her dedication to creating a positive impact on the community will make her an invaluable asset to the board.
Brockway envisions Central Market remaining true to its roots while evolving to meet the needs of the modern community. She believes in the market's potential as an experiential space where people can come together, share meals, and build connections. She also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a diverse range of vendors who offer a variety of locally sourced products to cater to various tastes and preferences.
“I think I’ll be there as long as I can have an impact,” Brockway says. “It’s a great group to be a part of.”
While Brockway will bring a fresh perspective to the board, Dittenhafer plans to remain available should the need arise for more experienced insight. Together with the other board members and the Central Market community, Brockway will offer new ideas, excitement, and expertise to guide the market into a thriving future.
Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects took on the Architecture, Interior Design, & Overall Project Management for the new Bedford Elementary School, and the outcome is impactful.