Living Between York's History and Its Vibrant Present

From historic preservation to community spirit, Jerri Worley embodies the evolving charm of downtown living

BY HANNAH BEARD I MARKETING & MERCHANT ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

At 81 years young, Jerri Worley is a living testament to the vibrant and evolving spirit of Downtown York. Sitting in her sunlit apartment overlooking Continental Square, Jerri shared with us the rich tapestry of her life, deeply intertwined with the history and community of York.

Jerri moved into her current apartment eight years ago, one of the first residents to embrace living in Continental Square. "It used to be a government building," she reminisces, "and before that, it housed the Bear’s Department Store." Jerri, like many Yorkers, thinks back fondly on Bear’s, one of three major department stores in York City for decades, and a destination for holiday shopping.

Before moving to Continental Square, Jerri lived in various parts of York and even grew up in the city. Jerri's connection to York runs deep, having grown up in the city until the seventh grade before moving to Jacobus. After a career as a clinical social worker, Jerri has settled back into city life, where she enjoys the walkability, the theaters like the Appell Center, and the convenience of having everything within one square block. "What’s not to like?" she asks with a smile.

"If you have any interest in architecture, this is a destination," Jerri proudly states. "You can always tell when someone is from out of town because they're looking up." Jerri chooses walking as her main means of transportation and finds herself still pausing to admire the architecture she has not yet discovered.

Jerri's passion for preservation extends beyond her home. She played a significant role in the restoration of the trolley station, a project that held deep personal meaning for her. "Bill Dyze restored it once, and I knew about it because of him," she recalls. "I restore it now as a way to honor him." With the help of Ausherman Painting and Sherman Williams, who provided the paint and a color specialist, the station was brought back to life. Jerri takes pride in changing the wreath on it seasonally, adding her personal touch to the community.

"Downtown was a lot quieter eight years ago," Jerri reflects. "There were fewer businesses, fewer people. But it's come a long way." She's watched the area transform into a bustling hub of creativity and commerce, with metal sculptures and local artists contributing to the town's unique charm. "York is so talented," she says with admiration. "We need to shout it to the world.”

Jerri's love for the arts led her to become friends with local artists like Brenda Wintermyer and Peter Danko, just to name a few. Her appreciation for York's culinary scene is just as enthusiastic. From the convenience of Prince Street Café to the seafood at Rockfish and the Italian dishes at Iron Horse, Jerri tries to visit all the restaurants and coffee shops downtown. About Iron Horse, "They treat me like I’m their grandmother," she laughs. "They help me get my groceries out of the car. They threw me a birthday party last year. It’s like family."

Public transportation is another aspect of downtown life that Jerri values, particularly the free bus services for seniors. As for recruiting her friends to dwell in the city like her, "I tell everybody to come downtown!”

Every week, Jerri makes a point to visit Central Market for groceries and enjoys the Cherry Lane Box Lunch Revue in the summer. Despite her lively schedule, Jerri finds time for spiritual practices. A follower of the teachings of Buddha, she meditates each morning in her chair, facing the south side of the city as the sun rises. "It brings me peace."

Jerri’s life is a beautiful blend of the past and present, of community and solitude. She embodies the spirit of Downtown York-- evolving, gracious, and deeply connected to the people and places around her. As we concluded our afternoon, it was clear that for Jerri Worley, dwelling in Downtown York is not just about where she lives but how she lives.