A TOWN BUILT AROUND A MILL

In 1804, German-speaking families from Berks County, Pennsylvania, established the community that became Germantown. Their leader, Philip Gunckel, chose the Twin Creek Valley for a gristmill. In 1814, he laid out the town plat that still shapes downtown.

THE MAN BEHIND THE NAME

Gunckel’s name connects the town’s founding, its street plan, and The Florentine’s early ownership. The upstairs Gunckel Suite carries that name into the building’s life today.

A DOWNTOWN WORTH EXPLORING

Gunckel’s Town Plan Historic District was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. The National Park Service identifies community planning, transportation, and architecture among its areas of significance.

READ THE OLD STREETS

This May 1899 Sanborn insurance map shows downtown’s blocks, alleys, and buildings. Look for “Florentine Ho.” along Market Street. Historical maps record a moment in time; use current directions when planning your visit.

Sources: City of Germantown, “Germantown History” and “Town Tour”; National Park Service, Gunckel’s Town Plan Historic District; Library of Congress, Sanborn map collection (May 1899, sheet 2).