The Adams County Historical Society is honoring one of Gettysburg’s most celebrated native sons, Hall of Fame pitcher Eddie Plank, with a weekend of events marking the 150th anniversary of his birth. Known as “Gettysburg Eddie,” Plank remains a towering figure in baseball history and local heritage, celebrated both for his legendary left arm and his enduring ties to the community.
The observance centers on a series of programs at the Gettysburg Beyond the Battle Museum, where this month’s “Artifact of the Month” features memorabilia from Plank’s storied career. Highlights include a free film screening, a panel discussion with former Major League players, and a special lecture on Plank’s life by Lawrence Knorr, Ph.D., author of Gettysburg Eddie.
On August 31, Knorr will explore Plank’s journey from small-town ballfields to the pinnacle of professional baseball. His talk will trace Plank’s early years in Gettysburg, his college days at Gettysburg College, and his swift rise to the Philadelphia Athletics under legendary manager Connie Mack in 1901. Known for his pinpoint control and durability, Plank became one of the winningest left-handed pitchers in MLB history, appearing in multiple World Series and earning a place in Cooperstown in 1946. He was the first left-hander in Major League history to win 300 games and is, to this day, one of only six southpaws with 300 wins. Knorr will also share anecdotes from Plank’s career, his brief retirement, and his untimely death in 1926.
Following the lecture, attendees can join a plaque dedication ceremony at 1 p.m., commemorating Plank’s legacy in his hometown. Later that afternoon, at 3:15 p.m., Knorr will sign copies of his book alongside Eddie Plank III, the Hall of Famer’s grandson, who will be in attendance with other family members. Books will be available for purchase, and visitors are welcome to bring their own copies for signatures.
More than a century after his debut, “Gettysburg Eddie” remains a symbol of local talent, perseverance, and national impact—proof that even a small-town boy from Adams County can make baseball history.
Source: ACHS