Chambersburg, PA 17240 - A Charming Historic City

Chambersburg is a borough and county seat of Franklin County in Pennsylvania. Its a charming historic city with plenty of things to do, from attending concerts at the Capitol Theatre to enjoying a day at Caledonia State Park.

The community of Chambersburg was first settled by a Scots-Irish immigrant named Benjamin Chambers in 1730, who established a saw and grist mill at the confluence of Falling Spring Creek and Conococheague Creek. Four years later, a representative of the Penn family gave him a "Blunston license" for 400 acres (160 ha), encouraging settlement in the area.

In 1748, a local militia was formed to protect the residents of the new town against Indian raids. Chambers became colonel of the militia and he constructed a private stone fort.

After the American Revolution, Chambersburg developed as a transportation and trading hub at the intersection of Forbes Road and the Great Wagon Road. It was plated in 1764 and the following year, it became the county seat of Franklin County.

The town is a popular tourist destination for its historical significance and the many historical sites it has to offer. The Franklin County Historical Society has an extensive collection of artifacts from the town's early days as a frontier town.

Other important historic sights include the Chambersburg Heritage Center, Chambersburg Courthouse and the John Brown House. The Franklin County Visitors Bureau is also a good place to start exploring the history of Chambersburg.

Explore the Chambersburg Downtown District

The downtown area of Chambersburg is one of the most appealing parts of the city, featuring a wide range of shops and restaurants. There is also a vibrant arts scene, with numerous theaters and museums in the area.

Discover the North Square Farmers Market

The weekly North Square Farmer's Market has a wide variety of locally grown fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and other produce. The market is open Saturdays and Sundays from 8 am to 2 pm, and is a fun place for families.

Check out the historic 800-seat Capitol Theatre

Located in downtown Chambersburg, the Capitol Theatre is a popular theater for live performances and film screenings. The historic theater has been in operation since 1927 and still maintains the original design of the building.

Visit the John Brown House

Abolitionist John Brown stayed in the town's Ritner Boarding House while he was planning his infamous 1859 raid on the federal arsenal in Harpers Ferry, Virginia. After his death, the house was restored and is now owned and operated by the Franklin County Historical Society.

See a Chambersburg Train at Norlo Park

The Norlo Park is a public park in the heart of downtown Chambersburg and features a historic train. The Cumberland Valley Chapter of the National Railroad Historical Society operates the train, which travels through the town on weekends and select dates during other seasons.

Enjoy a day of swimming at the Chambersburg Municipal Swimming Pool

A recreational swimming pool, this facility offers visitors a 50 yard lap pool for laps and a section with a 100 foot slide for general play.