History

An Overview

Welcome to the official website of the Borough Government of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

Gettysburg was founded in 1786 and named after Samuel Gettys, an early settler and tavern owner. The Borough was incorporated in 1806. The confluence of ten major roads of the period caused it to be attractive to travelers and settlers alike.  Although known primarily for its proximity to the battlefield, the Borough of 7620 residents is also known for its institutions of higher learning.  The Lutheran Theological Seminary was founded in 1826 and Gettysburg College was established in 1832. Harrisburg Area Community College also has a campus just outside the geographical boundary of  Gettysburg.

Centrally located in Southern Pennsylvania, Gettysburg is 52 miles from Baltimore, 90 miles from Washington, DC, and 102 miles from Philadelphia. The main thoroughfare is US Route 30 (The Lincoln Highway), which was the first trans-continental highway.

For three days in July of 1863, a costly battle raged between the Union and Confederate armies in and around the Borough. Over 51,000 casualties occurred during this battle. Although the Civil War continued two years following the battle at Gettysburg, the battle is viewed as the turning point of the war. 

The First Borough Council

Gettysburg was incorporated as a Borough under the Pennsylvania Constitution on March 10, 1806. The Borough's first election took place on May 7, 1806. The borough's first Borough Council meeting took place at the home of William McClellan on May 21, 1806. The total amount of taxes collected in 1807 was $577.811/2 - which includes the dog tax. The Treasurer would collect all taxes and would receive 21/2% of all taxes collected. The Borough's first Council and staff follows.

Gettysburg's First Council and Staff (1806)
TitleName
Burgess (Mayor)Reynolds Ramsey
President of CouncilGeorge Kerr
Member of Borough CouncilEmanuel Ziegler
Member of Borough CouncilWilliam Garvin
Member of Borough CouncilJames Dobbin
Member of Borough CouncilWalter Smith
Town Clerk and TreasurerJames Gettys

 


Click Here to learn more about Gettysburg's Town History.


Click Here to learn more about the Battle of Gettysburg.


Clear Here to learn more about the evolution of the Gettysburg Borough Flag.


Click Here to learn more about the Naval Destroyer Ship, CG64 USS Gettysburg.


 

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