McSherrystown, PA
County: Adams
History
McSherrystown, Pennsylvania, is a small borough located within Adams County. Its history dates back to the early 19th century when John McSherry, a local landowner and businessman, laid the foundation for the town's development.
John McSherry owned several hundred acres of land in the area and decided to plot a town in 1811. He named it McSherry's Town, which eventually became McSherrystown. The first lots were auctioned off in 1812, attracting settlers who were primarily German immigrants seeking a better life in America.
The town grew steadily over the years, with the establishment of various businesses and industries. The earliest industries in McSherrystown included blacksmiths, tanneries, distilleries, and mills. The town's growth was further facilitated by the construction of the Hanover Branch Railroad in 1870, which connected McSherrystown to other nearby towns and markets.
One of McSherrystown's notable landmarks is the St. Mary's Basilica, built in 1852. The church served as a focal point for the community and attracted many German Catholics who contributed to the town's growth. Today, St. Mary's Basilica remains an important religious and cultural center in McSherrystown.
Throughout the years, McSherrystown has remained a close-knit community with a strong sense of heritage and traditions. The borough has managed to preserve its historic buildings and maintain a small-town charm.
In recent decades, McSherrystown has also faced its share of challenges. Economic shifts and changes in the manufacturing industry have led to a decline in certain businesses. However, the town continues to adapt and evolve, focusing on revitalization efforts and community development initiatives.
McSherrystown's history is closely tied to the growth and development of Adams County. Today, the borough remains a vibrant part of the county, attracting visitors with its historical charm, community-oriented values, and commitment to preserving its heritage.
Attractions
McSherrystown is a small borough in Pennsylvania with a population of around 3,000 people. While it may not have numerous attractions within its boundaries, there are several nearby places worth visiting. Here are a few attractions near McSherrystown:
Gettysburg National Military Park
Located about 7 miles west of McSherrystown, Gettysburg National Military Park is one of the most significant historical sites in the United States. This park commemorates the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War and offers a range of attractions, including battlefield tours, museums, and monuments.
The David Wills House
Situated in Gettysburg, the David Wills House was the place where Abraham Lincoln stayed the night before delivering his famous Gettysburg Address. It now serves as a museum and visitor center, delving into the history surrounding the speech and life during the Civil War era.
Gettysburg Battlefield Tours
Multiple tour companies provide guided tours of the Gettysburg Battlefield, offering a closer look at the historic sites, battlefields, and stories from the Civil War period. You can choose from bus tours, segway tours, horseback tours, and even ghost tours that highlight the area's paranormal history.
Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center
Adjacent to the battlefield, the museum and visitor center offer exhibits, films, interactive displays, and educational programs that provide an in-depth understanding of the events that occurred during the Battle of Gettysburg.
Boyd's Bears Country Store
Located in Gettysburg, Boyd's Bears County Store is a popular destination for both collectors and visitors. It offers a range of plush bears, collectibles, home décor, and gifts.
Eisenhower National Historic Site
Just a short drive from McSherrystown, the Eisenhower National Historic Site was the former home and farm of General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Visitors can explore the meticulously preserved farm, gardens, and Eisenhower's home to gain insight into his life and presidency.
Gettysburg Railroad Station Museum
Housed in the historic railway station in Gettysburg, this museum provides a glimpse into the area's railroad history, including exhibits on the Gettysburg Railroad, the famous Lincoln funeral train, and the significance of railroads during the Civil War.
While McSherrystown itself may not have many attractions, there are plenty of historical, cultural, and natural sites to explore in the nearby vicinity.
Climate
McSherrystown, Pennsylvania, experiences a humid continental climate. It is located in Adams County in the northeastern part of the state. The town is characterized by four distinct seasons, each offering different weather conditions.
Summers in McSherrystown are typically warm and moderately humid. The average high temperatures range from the mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 29°C) in June to the low 80s Fahrenheit (around 27°C) in August. July tends to be the warmest month. While summer brings some precipitation, it is generally not excessive. Thunderstorms are quite common during this season.
Autumn in McSherrystown is usually mild and pleasant, with temperatures gradually cooling down. September sees average highs in the upper 70s Fahrenheit (around 25°C), while October sees highs in the low to mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 16-18°C). As autumn progresses, nights become cooler, and colorful foliage can be observed throughout the region.
Winter in McSherrystown is cold, with average temperatures dropping below freezing. December, January, and February are the coldest months, with average highs ranging from the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (around 1-7°C). Snowfall is common during this season, with an average snowfall of around 25 inches per year. Winter storms can occasionally bring heavier snowfall and blizzard-like conditions.
Spring in McSherrystown is characterized by mild weather and increasing temperatures. March and April see average highs in the 50s Fahrenheit (around 10-15°C), with May bringing highs in the 70s Fahrenheit (around 21-26°C). The region experiences a fair amount of precipitation during spring, and occasional thunderstorms occur as well.
Overall, McSherrystown, PA, exhibits a mix of weather conditions throughout the year, from warm summers to cold winters, providing residents with the opportunity to enjoy the changing seasons.
Neighborhoods
McSherrystown is a borough located in Adams County, Pennsylvania, in the United States. It is a small community with a population of around 3,000 residents. Although it is a relatively small town, McSherrystown has a few distinct neighborhoods that contribute to its charming character.
Downtown
The heart of McSherrystown is its downtown area, which is the central hub of the community. Here, you will find a mix of businesses, shops, and restaurants. The downtown area is known for its historic buildings and small-town atmosphere.
Residential Areas
Surrounding the downtown area, you will find various residential neighborhoods in McSherrystown. These residential areas consist of a mix of single-family homes, duplexes, and townhouses. Most of the houses have well-maintained yards, giving the neighborhoods a pleasant and scenic feel.
Conewago Hill
Located on the eastern side of McSherrystown, Conewago Hill is a residential community that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is characterized by its hilly terrain, which provides an added sense of seclusion and privacy to its residents.
Hammond School Area
Situated on the southern edge of McSherrystown, the Hammond School area is named after the Hammond School, which is a historic building in the neighborhood. This area is known for its spacious single-family homes and quiet streets, making it an ideal place for families.
Abbey Terrace
Abbey Terrace is a small neighborhood located near the St. Joseph's Catholic Church and the Mount Saint Mary’s University. It primarily consists of residential homes and has a more suburban feel compared to the downtown area.
Overall, McSherrystown offers a small-town atmosphere with a close-knit community feel. The neighborhoods provide a range of housing options and amenities to accommodate different preferences and lifestyles. Regardless of which neighborhood you reside in, you will likely experience a friendly and welcoming environment in McSherrystown.