Historic Ephrata Cloister, 632 W. Main St., Ephrata, and the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) will celebrate the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's 342nd birthday on Charter Day, Sunday, March 12, by offering free admission from noon to 4 p.m. This special day marks the granting of the charter for Pennsylvania to William Penn in 1681. In 1732, German immigrant Conrad Beissel established the Ephrata Cloister along the banks of the Cocalico Creek in Lancaster County. This unique religious community epitomized William Penn's "Holy Experiment" as an example of religious tolerance, creative expression, and intellectual freedom.

The original buildings of Historic Ephrata Cloister hold many objects made and used at the community in the 1700s, and experienced interpreters will help visitors to explore the rich history of Ephrata at their own pace during this program. Visitors are encouraged to start their visit in the Visitor Center with a short video that will help set the stage for their exploration.

Ephrata Cloister is known as the home of the first documented female music composers in North America, and the Ephrata Cloister Chorus will highlight some of these women's hymns during performances at 2 and 3 p.m. in the 1743 Meetinghouse. Visitors may also stop by the museum store, which offers a locally made handcrafted items, books, ceramics and more.