A feature from our surrounding historical societies.
Heebner & Sons Agricultural Works on S. Broad St. was once a thriving industry as well as a landmark at the center of town. The company was founded by David Heebner and later managed by his sons William and Isaac. Built in 1874, the building was located next to the railroad, and it featured a domed clock tower. For decades the business was a leader in the production of agricultural equipment, shipping its products worldwide.
After WWI, the demand for horse-powered and steam-powered agricultural equipment fell off, and the Heebner plant was idled. The company officially closed its doors in 1925. It was briefly used as an automobile dealership by William Heebner’s son, Robert, but for nearly 15 years, the building sat empty. It was described in The Reporter as “close to a public eyesore.”
(Credit: Lansdale Historical Society)In 1944, the building was purchased by the Lansdale Wreckage and Salvage Co., with plans to demolish the building and sell the building materials. The following year, T. D. Keyser bought the land on which the Ag Works had stood as an investment. The feeling in the community at the time was that the land might be developed as a block of stores or much-needed parking space for the downtown area.
The site is now owned by Mr. Tire Auto Service Center.
Join us on Tuesday, Nov. 12 for our community program Preserving Historic Downtown Lansdale. We will discuss current initiatives for historic preservation in the Borough of Lansdale. The program will begin at 7pm at Borough Hall. No admission charge.
