Chambersburg Historic District facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Chambersburg Historic District
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83 S. Main St., Chambersburg Historic District, October 2010
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | US 11 and US 30, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | 232 acres (94 ha) |
| Built | 1734 |
| Architectural style | Mid 19th Century Revival, Italianate, Georgian |
| NRHP reference No. | 82003789 |
| Added to NRHP | August 26, 1982 |
The Chambersburg Historic District is a special area in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. It's like a protected neighborhood because of its important history. This district is found in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. It centers around the Memorial Fountain and Square.
This historic district has 159 important buildings. These buildings are in the main shopping area. They are also in the homes nearby. Many buildings show off beautiful old styles. These include Georgian and Italianate designs.
Contents
What is a Historic District?
A historic district is a group of buildings. These buildings are important because of their history. They might also be special because of their architecture. Protecting these areas helps keep history alive. It lets people see how places looked long ago.
Exploring the Architecture
The Chambersburg Historic District is famous for its buildings. You can see two main styles here.
Georgian Style
Georgian architecture was popular a long time ago. It was used from the 1700s to the early 1800s. Buildings in this style often look balanced and grand. They usually have a simple, strong shape. You might see tall windows and fancy doorways.
Italianate Style
Italianate architecture became popular later. It was common in the mid-1800s. This style was inspired by Italian villas. Buildings often have low-pitched roofs. They might have wide eaves (the part of the roof that hangs over). You can also spot tall, narrow windows. Sometimes, they have decorative brackets under the eaves.
Notable Buildings to See
Many buildings in the district are very special. They tell stories of the past.
Important Places
- St. Paul United Methodist Church: Built in 1896, this church is a beautiful landmark.
- Professional Arts Building: This building is from around 1930.
- Cumberland Valley National Bank: An important building from the town's past.
- Cumberland Valley Railroad Station: This station was key for travel and trade.
- First United Brethren Church: Completed in 1899.
- Presbyterian Church of the Falling Spring: This church dates back to 1803.
- Suesserott House: Another historic home in the area.
Separately Listed Landmarks
Some buildings in the district are so important they are listed on their own.
- Franklin County Jail
- Franklin County Courthouse
- John Brown House
- Masonic Temple
- Townhouse Row
- Zion Reformed Church
National Recognition
The Chambersburg Historic District was officially recognized in 1982. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This list includes places across the United States. Being on this list means a place is important for its history or architecture. It helps protect these special sites for future generations.
