Gettysburg, PA

Welcome to the official website of the Borough Government of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

Gettysburg was founded in 1786 and named after Samuel Gettys, an early settler and tavern owner. The confluence of six major roads of the period caused it to be attractive to travelers and settlers alike.  Although known primarily for its proximity to the battlefield, the Borough of 7490 residents is also known for its institutions of higher learning.  The Lutheran Theological Seminary was founded in 1826 and Gettysburg College was established in 1832. Harrisburg Area Community College also has a campus just outside of  Gettysburg.

Centrally located in Southern Pennsylvania, Gettysburg is 52 miles from Baltimore, 90 miles from Washington, DC, and 102 miles from Philadelphia. The main thoroughfare is US Route 30 (The Lincoln Highway) which was the first trans-continental highway.

For three days in July of 1863, a costly battle raged between the Union and Confederate armies in and around the Borough. Over 51,000 casualties occurred during this battle. Although the Civil War continued two years following the battle at Gettysburg, the battle is viewed as the turning point of the war.