More than 5,000 crowded York's Central Market for revival services in 19th century

York, Pa.'s Central Market served as a type of convention center in its early days, as did other city markethouses. The spaciousness of the Central Market building - with its current enlarged food court, located where the stands at the right previous stood - might make marketing to groups seeking large assembly spaces appealing once again. Also of interest: York's western gate: One image says so much and Steps of old York City Market mark its former location and York's Penn Street Farmers Market, nearing 150 years old, seeks to replant for new customers

In the past decade, market managers have tried just about everything to revive Central Market, that iconic part of York's downtown. Their efforts appear to be paying off, as I observed in the post: Going to market a longtime York County, Pa., pastime - and will remain so longtime into future .

Here's another idea, that's admittedly not new:

York's Central Market.

Perhaps they should take a stab at playing host to assemblies, both large and small, particularly those with an agricultural flavor.

That was a key part of market strategy 125 years ago.

According to historical accounts, York school students and Gov. Henry Hoyt attended a county Horticultural and Industrial Association exhibition at South Duke Street's City Market in 1879.

And the Christian Endeavor organization rented Central Market some years later.

All the tables were removed and replaced with chairs, freeing up space for revival services.

That was enough seating for 5,000 - about the size of a full house at Sovereign Bank Stadium.

And 1,000 worshiped on their feet.

A sampling of other York market posts:

- York County farm vs. factory tension relieved in overnight raid .

- Going to market a longtime York County pastime.

- York's Central Market sells steak ... and sizzle.

- The forgotten fifth York market house.

- York Market House No. 1 - Penn Street Farmers Market.

- York Market House No. 2 - The architecturally striking City Market.

- York Market House No. 3 - The first Eastern Market.