History of Hunterstown Historical Society

 

  The Hunterstown Historical Society was formed from a group called “The Friends of Hunterstown”.  Frank Thomas Jr. (a native and lifelong resident of Hunterstown) along with Roger and Laurie Harding, discussed forming a group interested in preserving the history in the area and encourage the preservation of this small, but significant village.

  The first meeting was held in July 2004 and was attended by 155 people.  It was held in conjunction with Adams County Historical Society.  Russ Swoody, Director of ACHS and Tim Smith, historian spoke at this meeting.  The “Friends of Hunterstown” was formed.

  Through the efforts of this group the first historic walk took place in July 2005. Over 350 people responded to the publicized walk which extended from The Great Conewago Presbyterian Church and Cemetery down through the village with a tour and refreshments at the Tate Farm.  The walk then continued to the area of the battle on the Leo Keller Farm. This tour was led by Troy Harman battlefield guide and historian.  This property was known as the “Felty Farm” at the time of the battle.  The barn was still standing at that time.  Re-enactors portrayed how Brig. General George Armstrong Custer’s men occupied the barn during the battle that occurred late in the afternoon on July 2, 1863.

  An anonymous gift of $250.00 was given as seed money for land preservation.

  This all led to establishing the Hunterstown Historical Society.  The first meeting was held February 22nd 2006 at the Great Conewago Chapel with 25 persons present.

The Felty Barn before it was dismantled

Felty Barn before dismantlingLast Public School in Hunterstown

The Last Public School House in Hunterstown

(building still standing)

Adams County, Pennsylvania

Hunterstown Historical Society

P.O. Box 3052

Gettysburg, PA 17325

Phone: 717-338-0126

E-mail: mail@hunterstown-hhs.org

Web: www.hunterstown-hhs.org