top of page

Footlight Ranch was designed and built in 1966 by owner John Shreve as an alternative venue to New York City dance instruction for his daughter and as a hospitality center for the region. The cantilevered roof over the outdoor stage, built by a local construction company is unique in York County and provides an excellent acoustical experience for performers.  The Ranch's early history saw days and nights filled with piano music from the Steinway Baby Grands, lent to students who learned from master teachers and pianists, some lured to Pennsylvania from New York.

In 1972, The Florida Keys Restaurant opened at Footlight Ranch.  Sit down meals were served, often with local Kralltown Elementary teachers moonlighting as servers on the weekends.  It also became known as a beautiful venue for weddings, receptions, family and high school reunions, picnics, and parties.  Also on the calendar every summer, was the Father's Day Fly-In at the properties runway located just 200 yards from the venue featuring ultra light air craft and other small planes.  The aircraft set up along the well maintained grass air strip (known as Shreveport North Airport also constructed in 1966), departing and landing throughout the weekend.  This event has always been open to the public.

Later the in-ground pool was installed.  The private membership swimming pool had a three foot shallow end that deepened to 9 feet at the other.  Sitting in front of the stage, it had covered seating for up to 200 people as well as open and grass seating areas.  Past performances at the Ranch included the 100+ year old Spring Garden Township Band which played during the Fourth of July Fly-Ins hosted by Mr. Shreve during which he honored local service people at his expense.

2022 saw updating of the buildings and the Keys Amphitheater with a fresh look while maintaining the original charm that proves timeless. The swimming pool has been filled in and covered providing area for over 300 plus guest for weddings, picnics, music entertainment and corporate outings to name a few. The airport is still in operation and is being used frequently by locals and can accommodate those who choose to fly in to an event at the Footlight Ranch.

 

  

bottom of page