Community members gathered at the Historic Rock Chapel in York Springs on Sunday to celebrate the legacy of America’s founding presidents and honor the upcoming 250th anniversary of the nation’s birth. Hosted by the Gettysburg Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), the “February Heroes” event paid tribute to Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, as well as The Four Chaplains (four U.S. Army chaplains who died in 1943 when their ship was torpedoed by a German submarine) and the patriots who fought for independence.
Rock Chapel, the oldest Methodist Church west of the Susquehanna River, provided a fitting backdrop for the free event, which featured an afternoon of patriotic music, historic reenactments, and storytelling designed to bring history to life.
Attendees enjoyed a variety of engaging activities, including performances by costumed reenactors who shared stories of early American history. A period-clad soldier provided a live rifle demonstration outside the chapel, offering guests the opportunity to take photos and experience a piece of Revolutionary-era military life.
To conclude the program, guests were treated to a taste of history with a Jubilee cookie, a favorite sweet of George Washington.
The Gettysburg Chapter of DAR, a women’s service organization dedicated to historic preservation, education, and patriotism, organized the event to foster community engagement and appreciation for American heritage. The chapter, whose members trace their lineage to Revolutionary War patriots, actively works to educate the public on the nation’s founding principles and the sacrifices made to secure independence.
For those interested in learning more about DAR membership, inquiries can be directed to gettysburgdar@gmail.com.
Amy Thomas, Contributing Editor, is responsible for community outreach, including our social media presence. She, her husband, and her two children reside in Adams County. Amy also works in occupational therapy and volunteers with local organizations.