Gettysburg Founders Day

Gettysburg Founders Day takes place Friday, August 14, 2026, at Evergreen Cemetery in Gettysburg, PA, where the Gettysburg Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution honors James Gettys and his wife Mary, the founders of Gettysburg.

The 6 p.m. wreath-laying ceremony recognizes General James Gettys for his service during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 while celebrating the local history and legacy that helped shape Gettysburg and the United States. Organizers plan the event near the Gettys family gravesite to coincide with the Lincoln Fellowship’s evening Taps program at Gettysburg National Military Park, creating a meaningful night of remembrance in Adams County.

Presented through a collaborative effort between the Gettysburg DAR Chapter, Gettysburg History, and other local organizations, the ceremony highlights the role Gettysburg’s early residents played in America’s fight for independence and the growth of the nation.

Residents, visitors, and history enthusiasts can gather in one of Gettysburg’s most historic settings to reflect on the sacrifices, leadership, and community foundations that continue shaping the region ahead of America’s 250th anniversary.