National Register Listing

Sheads House

a.k.a. Oak Ridge Seminary;See Also:Gettysburg Battlefield and Histo

331 Buford Ave., Gettysburg, PA
Local significance of the building:
Military; Education; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

military education architecture houses residential buildings
Philadelphia is home to the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in the United States, the Reading Terminal Market, which opened in 1893.
Pennsylvania random facts
Adams County, Pennsylvania was established on January 22, 1800, as the 42nd county in the state. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Susquehannocks and the Lenape, until European settlers began arriving in the early 18th century. The county was named after John Adams, the second President of the United States.

During the American Revolutionary War, Adams County played a significant role in the fight for independence. The Battle of Gettysburg, fought from July 1-3, 1863, was a major turning point in the Civil War and one of the most significant battles in American history. It took place in Gettysburg, a borough in Adams County, and resulted in a Union victory with over 50,000 casualties on both sides. The battlefield is now a national park and a popular tourist attraction.

Agriculture has always been a vital part of Adams County's economy. The county is known for its rich farmland and fertile soil, making it a prime area for growing apples and other fruits. In fact, Adams County is known as the "Fruit Belt" of Pennsylvania and is famous for its apple orchards and apple products, such as apple cider and apple butter. The annual Adams County Apple Harvest Festival, held in October, celebrates this agricultural heritage.

In addition to agriculture, Adams County has a diverse economy, with industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism contributing to its growth. The county seat is located in Gettysburg, which is not only home to historic landmarks but also a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Over the years, the county has experienced population growth and development while still maintaining its rural charm and historical significance.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Adams County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1736: Adams County is formed from York County and named after John Adams, the second President of the United States.
  • 1776: The Battle of Gettysburg takes place during the American Revolutionary War, marking a significant turning point in the war.
  • 1800s: The county's economy thrives with the growth of agriculture, particularly fruit cultivation, wheat farming, and dairy production.
  • 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg occurs during the American Civil War, leading to a devastating loss of life and damage to the area.
  • 1888: The Gettysburg National Military Park is established to preserve and commemorate the historic battlefield.
  • 1900s: The county experiences further growth in agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing industries.
  • 1962: The Appalachian Trail, a famous long-distance hiking trail, is completed and passes through Adams County.
  • 2008: Adams County celebrates its 250th anniversary with various events and commemorations.