The Knauss Homestead

Home
United States
Emmaus, PA
The Knauss Homestead

The Knauss Homestead was built in 1777 by Heinrich Knauss for his father, Moravian settler and founder of Emmaus, Sebastian Knauss.

On the National Register of Historic Places, it’s where the Lehigh Valley can gather and share their love of history. The Knauss Homestead was built in 1777 by Henry Knauss, son of Sebastian Henrich Knauss in Emmaus PA on land donated by Sebastian Heinrich Knauss.

10/30/2025

At the heart of every great community are the people who lend their hands and hearts to something greater than themselves.

If you’re looking for a way to give back, connect with others, and celebrate local heritage, we’d love to have you join our volunteer family!

🔗 Sign up and learn more at knausshomestead.org.

10/25/2025

Experience private dining like never before!

Each gathering here is surrounded by historic charm, warm ambiance, and the natural elegance of the grounds. Whether it’s a celebration, rehearsal dinner, or quiet evening with loved ones, the Knauss Homestead invites connection, conversation, and quiet beauty. 🌹

Visit knausshomestead.org to book your private dining experience.

10/23/2025

Our barn has come a long way!

Asbestos shingles removed, the roof repaired and reinforced, stonework repointed, new drainage installed, and every window and door carefully refabricated to reflect the craftsmanship of 1777.

Now, we’re focused on completing the interior, adding electrical work, flooring, and support beams to make the space ready for art shows, classes, and celebrations.

Your support helps us bring our historic barn to life as a true space for community and connection. ❤️

Help us reach our $250,000 goal at knausshomestead.org/donations/join.

10/21/2025

What is a Wheelwright? 🛠️

A wheelwright is a skilled artisan who crafted and repaired wooden wheels and wheeled vehicles.

The wheelwright trade was indispensable during the 18th century. Before the advent of automobiles, crafting entire mobile units was crucial for transporting goods, people, and produce. This required precision and skill, as they had to withstand the rigors of unpaved roads and the weight of the load.

The Knauss family relied on this trade to support their livelihoods and contribute to the community's growth.

🔗 Learn more at knausshomestead.org

10/18/2025

Step back in time and bring your creative vision to life at the Knauss Homestead!

Our period rooms, natural light, and scenic backdrops make the perfect setting for photo and video shoots that capture timeless charm.

📸 Rent the Homestead for your next shoot at knausshomestead.org/contact

10/16/2025

The Knauss Homestead has always been more than a place; it’s where warmth, work, and community came together.

As we enter the final phase of our barn restoration, completing the electrical work, flooring, and support beams, it will make the space fully ready for art shows, classes, and celebrations.

Every gift helps us bring the barn to its full potential — a true gathering place for history, learning, and connection.

❤️ Help us reach our $250,000 goal and be part of preserving the heart of Emmaus.

🔗 Donate or learn more at knausshomestead.org/donations/join

10/14/2025

Built in 1777, the Knauss Homestead has witnessed over 240 years of Emmaus history. From its early days as the home of the Knauss family, who helped shape the foundations of our community, to the beautifully preserved landmark it is today, the homestead tells a story of time, tradition, and care.

The Knauss Homestead is a living connection between past and present, and continues to welcome visitors, events, and memories for generations to come.

Visit our website at knausshomestead.org to learn more.

10/13/2025

Celebrate life’s special moments surrounded by the beautiful grounds of the historic Knauss Homestead!

From showers and brunches to photography sessions, micro-weddings, and anniversary celebrations, our private event bookings offer the perfect setting to make your memories unforgettable. ❤️

Inquire online at knausshomestead.org

10/10/2025

Did you know the 1777 Knauss Homestead is one of the earliest homes in Emmaus? By joining our membership, you’re helping preserve the house, the grounds, and the stories of the people who built our town, while getting exclusive access to special events, genealogy resources, and premium historical content.

Membership levels start at just $25, $50, or $75, or you can make a custom donation. Every gift helps us continue caring for the property, including moving closer to completing the barn restoration!

🔗 Learn more at knausshomestead.org/membership

10/07/2025

This 18th-century antique woodworking bench is a tangible connection to the Knauss family’s trade as wheelwrights (wagon makers). This profession shaped Emmaus’s earliest years, with Sebastian and John Heinrich Knauss apprenticing under master craftsman Henry Antes, who also introduced them to the Moravian Church.

The bench itself is a remarkable piece of craftsmanship. Weighing nearly 200 pounds, it features handmade wooden screws, a leg vise, a tail vise, and bench dogs.

Its angled “Moravian-style” legs offered stability, and its 8-foot length could handle boards up to 9.5 feet long.

Though well-used, the bench remains fully functional and carries tool marks that tell the story of generations of work. Recently purchased from an antique store in Lancaster County, it continues our vision to interpret and preserve the working lives of the Knauss family in 1777.

10/04/2025

Built in 1777, the Knauss Homestead stands as a beautifully preserved piece of local history, offering a one-of-a-kind setting for your micro wedding.

Our elegant barn and intimate grounds blend historic charm with timeless beauty, creating the perfect backdrop for your new beginning. ❤️💍

Celebrate your love story where history lives on.
Inquire at knausshomestead.org

07/24/2025

Founded in 1890, the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution National Headquarters (DAR) is dedicated to promoting Historic Preservation, Education, and Patriotism across the United States.

Learn how they preserve local heritage and honor those who came before us, all while celebrating community and tradition at the Knauss Homestead.

Peach Festival | Saturday, July 26 | 12–4PM
Free tickets available at peachfest25.eventbrite.com

Address

152 E. Main Street (rear)
Emmaus, PA
18049

Telephone

+16104338626

Website

http://www.knausshomestead.org/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when The Knauss Homestead posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to The Knauss Homestead:

Shortcuts

Want your practice to be the top-listed Clinic in Emmaus?