YoCo Twist Blog
York County is excited to celebrate the 275th anniversary of the charter signing on August 19, 2024! This milestone marks a significant moment in York County history and several events are being planned to commemorate this occasion.
Wednesday, August 14
James McClure Presents Updated 'Never to Be Forgotten' -- the Story of York County
Red Land Library, 70 Newberry Commons, Etters, 6:30-8 p.m.
Just in time for the 275th Anniversary of York County, author James McClure will share the updated edition of Never To Be Forgotten – a Year-by-Year Look at York County’s Past, highlighting the events he added from 1999-2024. This 440-page book with more than 200 pictures is published by Scott Mingus Enterprises in partnership with the York County History Center and the York Daily Record/Sunday News. The original version was published 25 years ago to coincide with the 250th celebration of York County’s founding on August 19, 1999. At the time, Jim was Managing Editor of the newspaper, and his research and subsequent writing reflected the style with newspaper headings and short stories. The book was an immediate hit with people hungry to learn about the past in the easy-to-read style presented year by year. FREE, but please register here.
Saturday, August 17
Block Party on the York Revolution Plaza
WellSpan Park, 5 Brooks Robinson Plaza, 2-6 p.m.
This free, family-friendly block party will have fun and interactive activities, non-profit organizations, artisans, historic and preservation societies, and more. Be sure to stop by the Explore York booth for free activities and to pick up a complimentary commemorative sticker.
York Revolution vs. Hagerstown Boxcars
WellSpan Park, 5 Brooks Robinson Plaza, gates open 5:30 p.m., game at 6:30 p.m.
Prior to the game, the celebration will include a community parade, presentation, and assorted activities; cake and singing of Happy Birthday to York County; and special performances by the York County Honors Choirs Alumni Choir, which was originally formed for York County’s 250th birthday. The evening will conclude with a fireworks display presented by America250.
Sunday, August 18
Create a Community Mural
The Elks Lodge, 223 N. George St., 3-6 p.m.
Local muralist Ophelia Chambliss will oversee a community mural painting project and the community is invited to paint together to create something special.
Cupcakes, Candles, and Conversation
Appell Center for the Performing Arts, 50 N. George St., 4 p.m.
Take a captivating journey through time as renowned York County historian Jim McClure sits down with radio host Gary Sutton for an engaging conversation about our community’s rich 275-year history with fascinating stories, little-known facts, and pivotal moments that have shaped York County’s identity. In addition to the interview, the afternoon will feature the York County Honors Choirs Alumni Choir.
Monday, August 19
Anniversaries Celebration
York County Administration Center, 28 E. Market St., 10 a.m.
A celebration will acknowledge additional upcoming anniversaries:
- America’s 250th Anniversary (1776-2026)
- Signing of the Articles of Confederation’s 250th Anniversary (1777-2027)
Bells Across York County
Countywide, 12 noon
As part of the festivities, everyone is invited to participate in a symbolic ceremonial bell ringing at 12 noon. Bells played a crucial role in communication 275 years ago, serving as a way to convey important messages, call people to gatherings, and mark significant events. All churches, organizations, and groups with bells are encouraged to join in a synchronized bell-ringing event to fill the air with the joyful sound of bells ringing in unison across York County. Encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to participate!
All 72 municipalities across York County are encouraged to participate and find ways to acknowledge this milestone.
For more information, please visit HistoryMadeHere.com.
Watch Explore York’s social media for updates.
When sharing on social media, please include the #HistoryMadeHere hashtag!
Another fun way to celebrate the 275th milestone
Flinchbaugh’s Orchards and Farm Market is also getting into the spirit with their corn maze this year commemorating 275 years. The maze will be open August 31 through November 9.
