GAR Building (Lykens, Pennsylvania) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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GAR Building
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | 626-628 N. Second St., Lykens, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | 0.5 acres (0.20 ha) |
| Built | 1850-1852 |
| NRHP reference No. | 86003453 |
| Added to NRHP | November 5, 1986 |
The GAR Building is a very old and important building in Lykens, Pennsylvania. It is located in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. This building has a long history. It has been used for many different things over the years.
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About the GAR Building
This historic building was constructed a long time ago. It was built between 1850 and 1852. The building is made of gray limestone. It has two stories and a special roof shape called a gable roof. You can also see a fancy entrance at the front.
A Building with Many Lives
The GAR Building has had many different purposes. It started out as a church. People gathered there for religious services.
Later, from 1867 to 1887, it became a private home. A family lived there for about 20 years.
After that, it was used as an armory from 1888 to 1890. An armory is a place where military weapons are stored. It also served as a training spot for soldiers.
From 1890 to 1898, the building housed a fire company. Firefighters kept their equipment there. They were ready to help the community.
In 1898, a group called the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) bought the building. They used it as their meeting place. The GAR and their Women's Auxiliary group met there until 1973. After that, the building was given to the Lykens Borough.
What Was the Grand Army of the Republic?
The Grand Army of the Republic, or GAR, was a very important group. It was an organization for soldiers who fought in the American Civil War. This war happened from 1861 to 1865. The GAR helped these veterans. They supported each other and remembered their service. Many towns had a GAR post, which was like a local club. The GAR Building in Lykens was one of these special places.
Becoming a Historic Place
The GAR Building is recognized as a very important historical site. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. This means the building is protected. It is seen as a valuable part of American history. The National Register helps to save important places for future generations.
