On July 4, the United States of America celebrates its 250thanniversary. Franklin County will join in the pageantry of the nation and celebrate its legacy. What follows are some area highlights of that legacy.
Chambersburg forges the iron that built the region
The first iron works of Franklin County was formed by Capt. James Chambers (1743-1805), a veteran of the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783). Chambers led a unit of the Pennsylvania Regiment troops to join Gen. George Washington (1732-1799) and his army in Boston during the first part of the war. Capt. Chambers father, Col. Benjamin Chambers (1708-1788) is the namesake of the city of Chambersburg.
After retiring from military service, James Chambers returned home where he founded Loudon Forge Iron Works. As the new nation worked its way towards the industrial revolution, the iron works provided local farmers and builders with the materials they needed to help expand the region.
On Saturday, July 4, Chambersburg will be celebrating the 250th anniversary with a Veteran’s Celebration to be held at Memorial Park, which is located at 1 Washabaugh Way.
Waynesboro, named after an American hero
Waynesboro, which was originally named Waynesburg, is named after a popular American Revolutionary War hero named Gen. “Mad” Anthony Wayne (1745-1796). While the famed general who was known for his ferocity on the battlefield was born in Pennsylvania, he had never lived in the area which bears his name. John Wallace Jr. (1755-1811), had served under Gen. Wayne during the war and named the town after his beloved leader in 1779. Waynesboro was one of several townships and communities in the region named after a hero of the war of independence.
On Friday, July 3, Waynesboro will be holding its Boro Bash 250 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Grove/Bowersox parking lot on South Broad Street. There will be food trucks, historical displays, kids’ activities and even a hot dog eating contest. The event will be sponsored by Mainstreet Waynesboro, Inc.
Greencastle-Antrim welcomed a legendary figure
Greencastle was founded by Revolutionary War veteran Col. John Allison (1738-1795) in 1782. It was Allison’s life after the war that made him a significant part of Franklin County’s legacy. His leadership and vision took a frontier settlement which had bloody history of fighting with Native Americans and changed it into a thriving community that was once visited in 1792 by President George Washington. The nation’s leader stopped at McCullough’s Tavern on the Square while passing through the town.
Greencastle-Antrim will be celebrating its 59th Annual Sidewalk Days on Friday, July 10, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Saturday, July 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will take place along North and South Carlisle Streets and will feature food trucks, live entertainment and vendors.
Hugh Mercer set history a sail
Hugh Mercer (1726-1777), the founder of Mercersburg, was a doctor and soldier. On the day after Christmas in 1776, Mercer, who was a brigadier-general in the American Revolution under Gen. Washington in New York, has often been credited as the man who made the suggestion for Washington to cross the Delaware in a surprise attack at the Battle of Trenton.
Mercer would fight beside Gen. Washington and gave his life defending him. In January 1777, when he was surrounded by British troops who had mistook him for Washington, Mercer drew his sword and fought unwinnable odds rather than give up his leader and his country.
On July 11, Mercersburg will celebrate the nations anniversary with a celebration at 2 S. Main St. from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. There will be a block party featuring live music, food trucks, a chili cook off and a “super-spreader” event. The celebration will be sponsored by Colonel Murphy’s Music & Events.
History lives on in Franklin County
Franklin County’s legacy is one of American legacy. Named after the heroes who helped create the nation and many who have fought for it. From the earliest days of pioneers and colonials, through the war for Independence, the trials and successes of a growing nation, and the war that pitted neighbor against neighbor, Franklin County has grown with the nation that founded it. The 250th Anniversary is not just another milestone number, but a testament to the spirit of the men, women, and children that call the country their home.
For more information about events happening around the region visit these sites:
