Strolling through Shipoke, it’s almost hard to believe that just months ago, the narrow streets were coated with dried river muck, the sidewalks chock-a-block with piles of ruined furniture and house debris.
The quaint has now returned to what may be Harrisburg’s most charming neighborhood, which is scrubbed, rebuilt and ready again to share its beauty with outsiders.
On May 12, Shipoke will have the opportunity to show off its fresh look during the annual Home and Garden Tour hosted by Harrisburg Young Professionals.
“Shipoke was one of the hardest hit areas in the region from the flood,” said Meron Yemane, HYP president. “But we wanted everyone to know that it’s come back, that it’s still a vibrant and beautiful place to live.”
More than 20 houses will be open for viewing, ranging from the grand to the snug. And, because the neighborhood is so compact, it may be the easiest Home Tour yet to get around.
Bob Hostetter is one of the proud Shipoke residents eager to show off his home and his beloved neighborhood.
Hostetter is one of the proud Shipoke residents eager to show off his home and his beloved neighborhood.
Hostetter admits that it wasn’t easy being out his house, living with friends for four months, after 3 feet of river water inundated his first floor.
But after extensive reconstruction, his S. Front Street home now looks gorgeous. And when people ask him if the flood—his second big one in 16 years there—even caused doubts of continuing to live in the area, his answer is a swift shake of the head.
“Anytime you live near the water, you can have to take your chances that, now and then, you’re going to get wet,” he said. “I’m lucky to have a home right on the water with this view. It’s incredibly beautiful.”
The one thing that Hostetter enjoys even more than Shipoke’s beauty is its sense of community.
On many weekends, residents hold neighborhood events, such as an Easter egg hunt, a holiday parade, a clean-up and a flea market. Then there are the informal, impromptu gatherings with neighbors in parks yards, sidewalks and the playground.
“There is an extraordinary sense of comradery,” Hostetter said. “People are genuinely interested in welfare and will help if you have a problem or need.”
And many people, like Hostetter, are happy to open their homes to strangers. They want outsiders to experience Shipoke’s historic houses, charming streets and, most importantly, spirit of togetherness.
This year, in particular, they want everyone to know that Shipoke is back—and just as breathtaking as ever. The HYP Home Tour will provide a tremendous opportunity to get that message out.
“We’ve all come to know each other here,” said Hostetter. “And now we’re focused on welcoming people to our neighborhood once again.”
