Introduction to Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, in Franklin county, is 38 miles N of Frederick, Maryland (center to center) and 70 miles NW of Baltimore, Maryland.
Chambersburg History
The Iroquois, Lenape and Shawnee tribes of Native Americans were the original inhabitants of this region. Benjamin Chambers and his brother arrived in 1730 and founded the community of Chambersburg. He established a saw mill and a grist mill in the region which was known as "Falling Spring" at that time. To protect against the Indians, residents formed a militia in 1748, and Benjamin Chambers became its colonel. Chambersburg was officially laid out in 1764 by Colonel Chambers, and was incorporated in 1803. Chambersburg played an important role in many battles of the French and Indian War, Revolutionary War, and the American Civil War.
Chambersburg and Nearby Attractions
- Rockhill Trolley Museum
- Antietam National Battlefield
- Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
- Catoctin Wildlife Preserve & Zoo
- Caledonia State Park
Things To Do In Chambersburg
Chambersburg offers easy access to several sites of historic interest, including the Eisenhower National Historic Site, Monocacy National Battlefield, Gettysburg National Military Park, Antietam National Battlefield, and Baker Mansion. Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, where a canal was in operation from the 1820s to the 1920s, now features lockhouses, locks, and aqueducts. The towpath is presently used as a recreational trail. The Rockhill Trolley Museum displays numerous 19th and 20th century trolley cars. Visitors also have the opportunity to ride a demo railway in the museum. Among other popular destinations nearby are Catoctin Wildlife Preserve & Zoo, Wildriver Waterpark, Lincoln Caverns, and Williams Grove Amusement Park. The community also hosts annual events like the Franklin County Fair, ChambersFest, and Apple Fest.
Chambersburg Transportation
Franklin County Regional Airport is the closest major airport.
Chambersburg Higher Education
Chambersburg is home to the Wilson College. Other colleges nearby include the Mount Saint Mary's College, Penn State Mont Alto, and Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania.
