3 minute read
Capturing Downtown York's Historic Architecture
Blake Gifford illustrates the buildings of York to preserve its history
BY BRENDAN SALYARDS | MANAGER, ECONOMIC INITIATIVES
Referred to by some as an architectural museum, Downtown York’s eclectic architectural style reflects nearly the full range of American architectural history. From the 18th-century timber-framed Plough Tavern, through to the post-modern styles of today, Downtown York has buildings that run the gamut of architectural styles and designs.
For Blake Gifford, an architect by trade, York is defined by its balance of various motifs. Blake, while not a York native, clearly displays his enthusiasm for York’s architectural heritage, a passion which derives from having grown up in the absence of a walkable main street community in suburban Houston, Texas.
In his youth, Blake developed an interest in detailed hand drawing as a hobby based on his interest in the Star WarsTM Cross Section books that were released in the 1990s, and other similar books of illustrations. Inspired to pursue a profession in which he could leverage this interest, Blake pursued one in architecture. His career and personal life brought him to York, Pennsylvania in 2015. While living on E. Market Street, Blake had a view outside his window of the York Water Company Building. In 2021, he began posting his drawings on Instagram and his website.
As a member of the Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB) and the York County History Center’s Building and Grounds Committee, Blake is committed to ensuring that York’s built environment remains balanced. “Historic Preservation is immensely important,” stated Blake. “A place with a lack of connection to its roots loses its identity. Historic Preservation provides a measurable impact for our quality of the environment. Sometimes you have to live in a lack of it to realize what you’re missing.”
Blake has just published a 3D model and rendered images that provide a glimpse into the past by allowing individuals to view the designs of York’s City Market which stood on the corner of South Duke and East Princess streets from 1878 until 1963. Blake has an upcoming show at the Grotto during York Arts Week, from August to September.
If you’re interested in learning more about York’s architectural history, you’re in luck. Blake has been informally providing walking tours of Downtown York for the past year. This year, he plans to formally launch a tour booking page on his website, where you’ll also find several of his prints are available for purchase. If there’s a building in Downtown York that you would like to see drawn, Blake is available for commission. Be sure to keep an eye out for more forthcoming work from Blake, as he shines a spotlight on Downtown York and its rich history.
Blake’s Favorite Buildings:
THE FLUHRER BUILDING (17 West Market Street), was built in 1911 and was originally home to Fluhrer’s Jewelry Store and was designed by the firm of John A. Dempwolf.
YORK TELEPHONE & TELEGRAPH COMPANY (31 South Beaver Street), built in 1931, this building was also designed by Dempwolf’s firm and is a fantastic example of the Art Deco Style.
