National Register Listing

Zion Reformed Church

S. Main and W. Liberty Sts., Chambersburg, PA
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Religion

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

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.

The Pennsylvania State University, commonly known as Penn State, was established in 1855 and is one of the largest universities in the United States.
Pennsylvania random facts
Franklin County, Pennsylvania, has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1784. The county is named after Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Shawnee and the Seneca.

In the 18th century, European settlers began to arrive, mainly of German, Scottish-Irish, and English descent. The county became an important frontier region, playing a role in the French and Indian War and the American Revolutionary War. Fort Loudoun, constructed in 1756, served as a strategic location during these conflicts.

During the 19th century, Franklin County continued to grow as a significant agricultural and industrial center. The region was known for its fertile farmland and agricultural productivity. The Cumberland Valley Railroad, completed in the mid-1800s, greatly improved transportation and boosted economic development.

The county also played a crucial role during the American Civil War. The Battle of Gettysburg, one of the most significant battles of the war, took place in nearby Adams County. Franklin County served as a vital supply center during the conflict, supplying troops and resources to both Union and Confederate forces.

Today, Franklin County is a diverse and thriving community. It boasts a mix of rural charm and modern amenities, with agriculture and manufacturing being important sectors of the economy. The region also offers numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, parks, and historical sites, making it a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Franklin County, Pennsylvania.

  • January 2, 1784: Franklin County was established in Pennsylvania.
  • 1784 - 1860: Franklin County saw significant growth and development as settlers migrated to the area.
  • 1861 - 1865: Franklin County contributed soldiers to the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1868: The Franklin County Historical Society was founded to preserve and promote the county's history.
  • 1872: The Franklin County Courthouse was completed in Chambersburg.
  • 1936: The historic Lincoln Highway, the first transcontinental highway, was rerouted through Franklin County.
  • 1955: The Chambersburg Heritage Center was opened to showcase the county's history.
  • 1968: The Conococheague Institute was established to preserve the cultural heritage of the region.
  • 1992: The Franklin County Visitors Center was opened to promote tourism in the area.
  • 2002: The Franklin County Old Jail Museum was opened to the public.
  • 2008: The Franklin County 9/11 Memorial was dedicated to honor the victims of the September 11 attacks.