As the United States prepares to mark its 250th anniversary in 2026, communities across the country are reflecting on their historical contributions. In Adams County, where landmarks like the Battle of Gettysburg and the Gettysburg Address have long defined its place in history, a new initiative aims to spotlight a lesser-known but equally important story.
The Adams Economic Alliance will host a special presentation titled “250 Years of Industry & Innovation in Adams County” on April 17 at the Beyond the Battlefield Museum. The event will explore how local industries have shaped the region’s economy and identity over more than two centuries.
Adams County has long drawn millions of visitors annually, with heritage tourism serving as a cornerstone of the local economy. Historic sites, museums, and preserved landscapes continue to connect visitors with pivotal moments in American history, including the legacy of Abraham Lincoln and Dwight D. Eisenhower, whose former farm sits just outside Gettysburg.
The upcoming program will trace the development of industries that emerged from the region’s natural resources, workforce, and location. Among them is the brickmaking tradition of New Oxford, which supplied building materials for homes, factories, and public structures across the region. In McSherrystown, a once-thriving cigar manufacturing industry employed thousands and contributed to the county’s industrial growth.
Agriculture also played a central role, particularly within the South Mountain fruit belt, where fertile land and innovation helped establish Adams County as a national leader in apple production. That legacy continues today through orchards, farm markets, and agritourism, which remain key attractions for visitors.
Supporting industries such as paper and packaging helped local growers expand their reach, while the development of transportation networks connected Adams County to broader markets. Railways, highways, and freight routes not only enabled industrial growth but also laid the groundwork for modern tourism and business travel.
The presentation will also examine how these historical industries continue to influence the county’s present-day economy. Organizers plan to highlight ongoing efforts to support local businesses, strengthen workforce development, and invest in infrastructure to sustain long-term economic resilience.
As the nation reflects on 250 years of history, Adams County’s approach underscores a broader message: that the American story is shaped not only by defining moments and historic figures, but also by the industries and innovations that sustain communities over time.
Source: Adams County Economic Alliance