The story begins back in 1753 when, John Shenk, a Swiss Mennonite farmer began distilling whiskey. Whiskey, being high
in carbohydrates, was used as a medicine, a food supplement and also as a means for purifying water. As a result, it became
a very valuable item for trade as the currency of that time was very unstable.
The home-farm operation was passed down through various members of the Shenk family until it was acquired by my Great Grandfather, Abraham "Abe" Bomberger, (picture on left) a Pennsylvania Dutchman, who purchased the property prior to
1860 from Shenk's great-granddaughter (a family member). After Abraham died the business was carried on by his two sons, my Grandfather Horst, and his brother Samuel Bomberger until prohibition forced its closure in 1919.
Pennco Distillers, Inc. PA acquired the property and made whiskey until 1978, when the distillery was sold to Michters.
In June 1980, the distillery was designated a National Historic Landmark by the Department of Interior and, at that time, was the oldest distiller site still operating in the U.S. Now it is no longer a National Historic Landmark.
So, the rest of the story is explained in the following newspaper clippings, etc.

Michter's triple fold tourist brochure, inside, 1st page.

Michter's triple fold tourist brochure, inside, 3rd page.

Another Michter's (1980) tourist brochure back & front page.

Liquor lure... News clipping below is a continuation of the one above. Trespassers prowl and authorities find no trace of owner.
Owner's of Michter's left one night and agreement reached on taxes.
Tarnished landmark.
Spirited bidding...
Tax plan for Michter's.
Big-scale distilling unfeasible.


My father Paul A. Bomberger and his brother, Leon, were born and brought up in the old homestead next to the Distillery, which was torn down many years ago. It is sad to see the end of this National Historic Landmark.

So this is the end of the story…Yvonne Bomberger Fowler