York County PA's History

Journey through the rich, diverse history of York County, Pennsylvania. From our early days as a colonial settlement to our pivotal role in American history, York County was at the heart of events that shaped our nation. Below, you’ll see evidence of resilience, innovation, and transformation as we spotlight key events, notable figures, and landmarks that have defined our unique region.

1605: Susquehannock Tribe Settles in the Area

The Susquehannock Tribe settles near the Susquehanna River in what will later be considered Southeast York County. Learn about the history of Indigenous people in York County at the Indian Steps Museum.

sketch of a colonial meeting

1749: York County is Established

York County is officially founded, marking a new chapter in Pennsylvania's colonial history. The county was named after the Duke of York, an early supporter of the Penn Family.

1777: Articles of Confederation and the Nation's First Thanksgiving

York hosts the Continental Congress, where the Articles of Confederation are adopted, and the first national Thanksgiving is declared. The Articles of Confederation were adopted on November 15, 1777. The reconstructed Colonial Courthouse is open for guided tours and tells the story of the Second Continental Congress as they drafted the colonies' first constitution. 

Dill's Tavern in Dillsburg, PA
Dills Tavern today in Dillsburg, PA

1794: John Dill Constructs Dills Tavern

John Dill build Dills Tavern, a key stop for travelers in York County. Today, visitors can explore Dills Tavern, the Eichelberger Distillery, and their surrounding outbuildings in Dillsburg, PA, as part of a guided experience provided by the Northern York County Historical and Preservation Society (NYCHAPS).

1800: Leonard Eichelberger Expands Dills Tavernlafayette raising a toast to York County

Leonard Eichelberger acquires and expands the tavern, adding the Eichelberger Distillery and enhancing its role as a prominent social and economic hub in the region. Set up a tasting at the Distillery through the Northern York County Historical and Preservation Society!

1842: Goodridge Buys Rail Cars for Freedom

Abolitionist William C. Goodridge purchases rail cars, using them to help enslaved individuals escape to freedom. Learn more about the bravery and determination exemplified by him at the Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad Museum.

1848: Glen Rock Carolers Begin Their Tradition

The Glen Rock Carolers start singing Christmas carols from midnight to morning, a tradition that continues to this day.

Photo of Wrightsville-Columbia Bridge by Inspired Imagez
Veterans Memorial Bridge that now connects Wrightsville with Columbia.

 

1863: The Burning of the Bridge at Wrightsville

Union forces burn Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge to prevent Confederate soldiers from taking Lancaster and turned the war to Gettysburg. The Burning of the Bridge Diorama tells the story of that fateful night.

1863: The Battle of Hanoverthe picket statue in hanover pa

The Battle of Hanover took place on June 30, 1863, in Hanover, PA, located in Southwest York County. This was part of the Gettysburg Campaign. Today, "The Picket," an impressive bronze statue of a mounted cavalryman created by Cyrus E. Dallin, commemorates the battle.

1863: Lincoln's Journey to the Gettysburg Address

President Abraham Lincoln travels through York County on the Northern Central Railway to deliver his iconic Gettysburg Address. Today, visitors can still ride the historic railway in train cars from throughout history. 

1871: First Animal Crackers Made in York County

Stauffer's Biscuit Company introduces America's first animal crackers, creating a beloved snack that remains a fan-favorite still to this day.

1898: "Madame Butterfly"

John Luther Long publishes Madame Butterfly, a story that later becomes a famed opera, adding to Hanover's literary legacy.

a sign that denotes the historical significance of the William C. Goodridge house
Historical marker outside the Goodridge House.

1900s: Underground Railroad Hideaway Revealed

Renovations at 123 East Philadelphia Street in York uncover a hand-dug hideaway under the kitchen. Successful Black businessman William C. Goodridge is believed to have hidden freedom seekers there as part of the Underground Railroad. The house now serves as the Goodridge Freedom Center and Underground Railroad Museum.

1901: Pretzel Paradise in Hanover

Snyder's of Hanover is founded, and becomes known for producing a variety of delicious snacks, especially pretzels.

exterior photo of the Warehime Myers Museum in Hanover
Warehime-Myers Mansion in Hanover, PA

1911: Warehime-Myers Mansion is Built

The Warehime-Myers Mansion begins construction as the residence of Clinton N. Myers of Hanover Shoe Company. Very little in the structure has changed over the years, giving the tour-goers a glimpse into the past.

1930s: The York Plan

The York Plan is developed as a cooperative manufacturing strategy to support WWII efforts, showcasing York's industrial ingenuity.

1940: The York Peppermint Pattie

An easy fan-favorite-- the York Peppermint Pattie was first produced in York County by Henry Kessler at his York Cone Company.

Haines Shoe House, the VRBO that's shaped like a huge shoe
Haines Shoe House

1948: Haines Shoe House is Built

The whimsical Haines Shoe House is constructed along Route 30 as a unique advertising attraction. The Shoe House has gone through many changes over the years, and now exists as a beautiful AirBNB that visitors can enjoy.

1955: Hall of Famer Debuts in York

Future MLB Hall of Famer Brooks Robinson begins his professional baseball career with the York White Roses, which will later be known as the York Revolution.

york peppermint pattie

 

2021: YoCo Local Wins Bronze

York County's Hali Flickinger earns two bronze medals at the Tokyo Olympics in the 200m butterfly and 400m individual medley.

2024: Happy 275th Birthday!

York County celebrates its 275th Birthday!

 

 

The Celebration of

York County's 275th Birthday

Learn More in Person

History in York County

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