Sons of the American Revolution

PASSAR 2024 Fall BOM Meeting
2024-11-01 - 2024-11-02 | Genetti Hotel & Suites, 200 West Fourth Street, Williamsport, PA, 17701, United States
The Pennsylvania Society SAR Fall 2024 BOM meeting has been scheduled, hosted by Tiadaghton Chapter, at Williamsport, PA.

Fri Nov 1 – dinner on your own and social gathering
Sat Nov 2 – registration starts at 8:00 am

Please see registration form for complete agenda.
Registration is closed.

Harris Ferry BOM Meeting
2024-11-09 08:30 - 22:30 (America/New_York) | The Olive Tree (formerly Wertzville Diner), 743 Wertzville Rd, Enola, PA, 17025, United States
The Harris Ferry BOM Meeting scheduled at Wertzville Diner in Enola. Breakfast to start the morning, followed by agenda.
Agenda includes but not limited to:

Update on PASSAR Fall BOM meeting
Current status of upcoming Wreaths Across America
Election of 2025 chapter officers

Wreaths Across America 2024
2024-12-14 09:00 - 10:30 | Paxton Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 3500 Sharon Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17111, United States
Come honor our Patriots and servicemen at Paxton Presbyterian Church Cemetery for our 2024 Wreaths Across America program*. Dress warm and bring your friends and family!
*Qualifies as a 250th Event

Harris Ferry Chapter SAR 2025 Annual Meeting
2025-01-18 09:30 - 12:00 | The Olive Tree (formerly Wertzville Diner), 743 Wertzville Rd, Enola, PA, 17025, United States
The Harris Ferry Chapter SAR Annual Meeting has been scheduled for 10:00 AM at Wertzville Diner! Feel free to arrive a bit early. Brunch is complimentary for compatriots and honored guests. You should have or will soon receive an invitation in the mail with a return registration requested. An email reminder was also sent out after the holidays.
Agenda includes but not limited to:

Wreaths Across America 2024 Highlights
PA State Library Genealogy Presentation
2025 Chapter Officers Ceremony
Upcoming Events and Initiatives
Tombstone Preservation Presentation

Please RSVP by January 4th, 2024.
Please refer to the invitation sent in the mail or via email if you have initial questions. Contact Compatriot Lemon with further inquires.
See You There!

PASSAR 2025 Winter BOM Meeting
2025-02-01 08:00 - 16:30 | Penn Harris Hotel and Convention Center, 1150 Camp Hill Bypass, Camp Hill, PA, 17011, United States
The Pennsylvania Society SAR 2025 Winter BOM meeting has been scheduled, hosted by Washingtonburg Chapter, at Camp Hill, PA.

Fri Jan 31 – Evening Social: Registration from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Evening social from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Sat Feb 1 – BOM Meeting: Registration from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Meeting, lunch, and presentation all to follow.

Please see registration form for complete agenda as well as hotel information.
*NOTE: on the website calendar it is entered that the event date is Feb 1, since that is the actual BOM meeting. Please do not miss the evening social the day prior on Jan 31 if you wish to attend.*
Registration is closed.

Lafayette200 Lafayette Bicentennial Reception - Paid Event
2025-02-01 17:30 - 21:00 | Governor Schulze Mansion, 27 N Front St, Harrisburg, PA, 17102, United States
You are cordially invited to a Bicentennial Reception commemorating the Marquis de Lafayette’s historic visit to the new state capital in Harrisburg.
The reception will take place in historic parlors restored to their appearance when Governor Schulze hosted Lafayette on February 1, 1825. Festive hors d’oeuvre, champagne, and aperitifs will be served. Music will be available as well as tours of the McCormick Riverfront Library. Period Early American or French Attire is encouraged but not required.

Saturday, February 1, 2025
6:00pm – 9:00pm (arrive 15-30min early please)
McCormick Riverfront Library/Haldeman Haly House/Kunkel Foundation Community Room
27 N Front St, Harrisburg, PA 17102

Tickets are $75 per person, with an option to be listed in the program as Patron for an additional $50. Registration is limited to 100 participants. (Adults only, please.) Register with a credit card using the form here.
*All Lafayette 200 Events qualify as SAR 250 Events

Lafayette 200 in Harrisburg and York

Event flyer pg.1

Event flyer pg.2

Article in “The Burg.”

Lafayette200 Lafayette Returns to Harrisburg - Free Event #1
2025-02-02 12:30 - 15:00 | Harris-Cameron Mansion, 219 S Front St, Harrisburg, PA, 17104, United States
Lafayette 200 in Harrisburg and YorkA second event commemorating the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s visit to Harrisburg is being held Sunday, February 2 at the John Harris Mansion.
This event is free to the public and will begin at 1 pm.
If you are interested in attending this free event, please contact Elizabeth Zucker at 214-850-0992 to RSVP.
*All Lafayette 200 Events qualify as SAR 250 Events
Lafayette 200 in Harrisburg and York
Article in “The Burg.”

Lafayette200 Lafayette Returns to York - Free Event #2
2025-02-02 16:00 - 18:00 | Continental Square, 1 East Market Street, York, PA, 17401, United States
A second event commemorating the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s visit to Harrisburg is being held Sunday, February 2 at the Continental Square in York.
This event is free to the public and will begin at 4pm.
*All Lafayette 200 Events qualify as SAR 250 Events
Lafayette 200 in Harrisburg and York

Washington's Birthday with Harrisburg Chapter, NSDAR
2025-02-15 11:00 - 14:00 | Red Lion Hotel, 4751 Lindle Rd, Harrisburg, PA, 17111, United States
Every year the Harris Ferry Chapter SAR and Harrisburg Chapter NSDAR join together to celebrate the birthday of our first President, George Washington. It is tradition that the chapters trade off every year. This year, 2025, is the DAR’s turn to host. RSVP by Thu Feb 6.

DATE: Saturday, February 15, 2025 at the Red Lion Hotel 4751 Lindle Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17111
TIME: Registration is from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM (please arrive at least 10min early)
PROGRAM: 11:30 Brief meeting on America 250. 12:00 Lunch is served. 1:00 Presentation regarding the 200th Anniversary of Lafayette’s Visit to Harrisburg
LUNCH: Chicken Artichoke Bruschetta, Oven Roasted Potatoes, Caesar Salad, Banana Cream Cake, Rolls, Coffee, Tea, Decaf
COST: $30
RSVP: RSVP by Thu, Feb 6th at noon

Please use green RSVP button in the email sent by HSFAR SAR President Lemon OR email him directly.

*Qualifies as a 250th event

Spring NSSAR Leadership Meeting
2025-02-27 - 2025-03-01 | The Galt House Hotel, 140 N. Fourth St., Lousiville, KY, 40202, United States
National Society SAR event, scheduled for Feb. 27 – Mar. 1, 2025 at The Galt House in Kentucky, USA.
The following is copy/pasted from the SAR Event Page:
Link to E-Packet
Link to Meeting Schedule
2025 SPRING LEADERSHIP
CONFERENCE/TRUSTEES MEETING
It is my pleasure to invite you to the Spring Leadership Conference/Trustees Meeting which will be held at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, on February 27-March 1, 2025.
National committees will primarily meet on Thursday and Friday. It is the responsibility of each chairman to notify committee members of the time and place of their meeting. The schedule of meeting times and places will soon be linked to this page and on sar.org. The Trustees meet on Saturday morning where reports will be presented by national officers and committee chairmen. Please note that Kelly Moore must have your written report no later than January 31, 2025. The report form can be found on the SAR website here. Banquets are scheduled for Friday and Saturday evenings for your social pleasure.
For those interested in accommodations at the Galt House Hotel: Friday night of the SAR room block is full, and the other nights have limited availability. I recommend you contact our Group Rooms Coordinator, Emily Dudley, directly at 502-569-4525 or edudley@ajshotels.com. Keep in mind that if you need your reservation to include Friday night, you will likely pay the regular Galt House rate for that night. There are also many other hotels nearby such as The Brown, The Hyatt, Louisville Marriott, Homewood Suites, Holiday Inn Express, or Omni Louisville.
There is a Welcome Reception for Leadership attendees in the Waterford Room on the 25th Floor of the West Tower of the Galt House Hotel on February 27 from 4:00 pm-6:00 pm (EST). We need a headcount for this event, so please add it to your registration if you wish to attend.
We have one pre-meeting form for you to review and sign (which can be completed electronically). It can be turned in to Compliance Officer Scott Collins, or to Kelly Moore in person upon arrival or your earliest convenience. NOTE: if you already signed a Conflict of Interest form at the Lancaster Congress or Fall Leadership, you do not need to sign another until Congress 2025.
Conflict of Interest Form
For additional information, the office point of contact is Kelly Moore (1-502-589-1776 or 502-588-6123 or kmoore@sar.org).
Sincerely,
Mike Scroggins, Executive Director
FYI – Both members and spouses/significant others are required to pay the $40 registration fee. Be sure to click “yes” to the question, “Is this guest your spouse/significant other?”
LATE REGISTRATION begins at 12:00 AM (EST) on February 20, 2025. The registration fee will be $90 for members and spouses/significant others starting on this date.
CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICY:
Through the close of business (5:00 pm EST) on February 13, 2025: full refund.
After the close of business on February 13th through the close of business (5:00 pm EST) on February 20, 2025: a partial refund is available.
After the close of business (5:00 pm EST) on February 20, 2025: no refunds are available.
Special Diets/Allergies – When listing dietary issues or allergies, please only include details that pertain to the meals listed on the registration. If you have no dietary concerns, there is no need to enter any notes. The vegetarian/vegan/gluten free option is predetermined and limited to those who are vegetarian/vegan or may encounter allergies to a meal description. Other food options are not available.
Attendees with special diet requirements will have assigned tables in order to get your meal to you quickly and efficiently. Table assignments will be spread across several numbered tables, allowing other attendees to join those tables. Table assignments will be posted outside the doors of the Archibald Ballroom on the 3rd Floor of the West Tower before each banquet.
We will not be offering Continental Breakfast on Friday for this Leadership. Breakfast is available in Walker’s Exchange Restaurant (open 6:30am-10:30am for breakfast, reservations recommended), and Thelma’s grab-and-go in the 3rd Floor Conservatory opens at 7:00am.
The Recognition Breakfast for donors that is typically held Saturday morning has been changed to a lunch on Friday. This is by invitation only and does not appear on the online registration. Invites will be sent out by Brittany Austin. This lunch is sponsored, and you will RSVP to Brittany.
Officer/Special Guest seating – General Officers, former PGs, VPGs, and ExCom members and their guests will have assigned seats at numbered tables for the Friday night banquet. On Saturday night, General Officers and guests will be seated on a riser, and former Presidents General and guests will be seated at a head table on the floor in front of the riser. This is a safety precaution. No assigned seats for VPGs and ExCom on Saturday. Speakers and other special guests will be seated with the President General.
Packets – In an effort to reduce paper usage and printing, most of the information previously found in packets will be digital only. A link can be found at the top of this page where you can view the information and print what you need. Names tags, along with special information such as that pertaining to special diets or first-time attendees, will be in envelopes that can be picked up from Registration in the LILY ROOM, 2nd Floor, West Tower, beginning Thursday, February 27, at 10:00am.
Merchandise – Thursday, February 27, is for pre-order pickup and room setup only. No engraving or calligraphy services available for pre-orders. All pre-orders must be in the system by end of business on Tuesday, February 25. The Merchandise store setup at the Galt House will be primarily apparel only. The Merchandise Department at Headquarters will be closed for business.

Harris Ferry BOM Meeting
2025-03-01 09:00 - 10:30 | The Olive Tree (formerly Wertzville Diner), 743 Wertzville Rd, Enola, PA, 17025, United States
Evening Compatriots!

There will be a BOM meeting for the Harris Ferry Chapter SAR for Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 9:00am at the Wertzville Diner in Enola.

Please email President Lemon if you’ll be attending as we have a pretty full agenda of topics to discuss. Some topics will be minor (no more than two minutes or so each), while others may warrant some lengthy discussion (potentially ten minutes each).

We have some rather important events approaching in mid-March and April that I’d like to go over, including several grave marking ceremonies, one of which Harris Ferry has an extremely heavy hand in.

A key component of this meeting will be discussing and organizing some committees and chairs to said committees, so attendance is vital, especially if you’d like a chance to help out with those!

I encourage you to attend! Order some breakfast and participate in some discussions as we kick off 2025. Expect to wrap up around 10:30-11:00 (so a 90 minute-ish meeting including breakfast).

Again, please let me know if you’ll be attending. This will help me gauge our attendance for the restaurant staff. Thank you all so much!

Marker Dedication at Wenrich's Cemetery with Harrisburg Chapter, NSDAR
2025-03-15 13:30 - 14:30 | Wenrich’s Cemetery, 6490 Linglestown Road, Harrisburg, PA, 17112, United States
The Harrisburg Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution is holding a dedication ceremony for nine Revolutionary War Patriots who are receiving DAR markers at Wenrich’s Cemetery in Linglestown. The Chapter has graciously invited the Harris Ferry Chapter SAR to attend.
Start time is 2:00 PM, please arrive at least 15 minutes early.
*Qualifies as a 250th event
DAR Wenrich Cemetery Marker Dedication – Invitation

CANCELLED: Cemetery Cleanup at Stroh's Cemetery with Harrisburg Chapter, NSDAR
2025-03-28 | Stroh’s Cemetery, 401 Fishing Creek Valley Rd, Harrisburg, PA, 17112, United States
The Harrisburg Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution is holding a cemetery cleanup at Stroh’s Cemetery in Lower Paxton on March 28th, with the intention of a marker dedication ceremony for two Patriots at later date (April 12th). The Chapter has graciously invited the Harris Ferry Chapter SAR to attend. Start time is TBD, please arrive at least 15 minutes early.
Please bring yard tools like rakes, weed eaters, containers of gasoline, gloves, eye and ear protection, etc.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you wish to attend the cleanup, you MUST contact President Lemon. The cemetery is on property that requires authorization for legal and safety reasons (ie. in the event you’re injured). Your name and phone number will be given to the DAR to communicate with the appropriate parties.
The Harris Ferry Chapter SAR has a significant link to this cemetery, as Past President and Compatriot Oscar H. Stroh is buried here. Mr. Stroh was instrumental in compiling, detailing, and publishing countless records on Dauphin Country Revolutionary War Patriots. It will be suggested at an upcoming BOM meeting that we raise funds for a Compatriot Grave Marker to be purchased and installed; more details to follow. If the BOM approves this idea, we will conduct our own Compatriot Grave Marking Ceremony for Oscar H. Stroh alongside the DAR’s Patriot Grave Marking Ceremony. Again, more details to follow.
Stroh’s Cemetery is located on the Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area, 401 Fishing Creek Valley Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17112

Marker Dedication at Stroh's Cemetery with Harrisburg, NSDAR
2025-04-12 14:00 - 15:00 | Stroh’s Cemetery, 401 Fishing Creek Valley Rd, Harrisburg, PA, 17112, United States
The Harrisburg Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution is holding a marker dedication ceremony for two Pennsylvania Revolutionary War Patriots at Stroh’s Cemetery in Lower Paxton. The Chapter has graciously invited the Harris Ferry Chapter SAR to attend.
Start time is 2:00 PM, please arrive at least 15 minutes early
401 Fishing Creek Valley Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17112
The Harris Ferry Chapter SAR has a significant link to this cemetery, as Past President and Compatriot Oscar H. Stroh is buried here. Mr. Stroh was instrumental in compiling, detailing, and publishing countless records on Dauphin Country Revolutionary War Patriots.
Following the DAR’s ceremony, Harris Ferry will conduct its own Patriot and Compatriot Grave Marking Ceremony for Patriots George Stroh, Christian Stucky, and Compatriot Oscar H. Stroh. The ceremony will be slightly condensed, since the DAR will have handled the majority of the rituals.
Stroh’s Cemetery is located on the Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area, 401 Fishing Creek Valley Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17112
*Qualifies as a 250th event
DAR – Stroh Cemetery Marker Dedication – Invitation
HFSAR – Stroh Cemetery Marker Dedication – Invitation

250th Anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord - NSSAR & MASSAR Event
2025-04-18 - 2025-04-21 | PA
As part of the 250th Anniversary of the America and the Decade of the American Revolution, the National Society SAR, Massachusetts Society SAR and New England District SAR have organized several events and activities:
Apr 18-21 – 250th Celebration of the Battles of Lexington and Concord (Massachusetts)

National Society SAR event
Registration and pricing for the event is now closed
Color Guard and 250th Anniversary Medal Opportunities
MASSAR 250 page
Event Flyer
Information Session PowerPoint
Special rate at Boston Marriott Burlington ends Mar 28 and can be accessed at the following link

Harris Ferry Chapter SAR President Lemon is attending.

Marker Dedication at Buck Cemetery with Harrisburg Hunters' and Anglers' Association
2025-04-26 10:00 - 11:00 | Harrisburg Hunters’ and Anglers’ Association, 6611 Hunters Run Rd, Harrisburg, PA, 17111, United States
Buck Cemetery is located on the grounds of the Harrisburg Hunters’ and Anglers’ Association. Many years ago, the Harris Ferry Chapter SAR dedicated the cemetery in honor of Patriot John Buck. Now, in 2025, the two groups would like to revisit the cemetery’s status and ensure an SAR Patriot Grave Marker is present.

Start time is 10:00 AM, please arrive at least 15 minutes early.
6611 Hunters Run Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111
If raining: the event will be held inside at the clubhouse. If still held outside, dress appropriately for the weather.
*Qualifies as a 250th Event
HFSAR Buck Cemetery Marker Dedication – Invitation
More information on the cemetery can be found on the website of the HHAA here: https://www.harrisburghunters.org/cemetary
Find A Grave for Buck Cemetery

PASSAR 2025 Spring BOM Meeting
2025-05-03 | Double Tree by Hilton Washington/Meadow Lands Casino Area, 340 Racetrack Road, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
The Pennsylvania Society SAR 2025 Spring BOM meeting has been scheduled, hosted by George Washington Chapter, at Washington, PA.

Fri May 2 – Evening Social: Registration from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Evening social from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Sat May 3 – BOM Meeting: Registration from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Meeting, lunch, dinner, and more all to follow.

Please see registration form for complete agenda as well as hotel information.
*NOTE: on the website calendar it is entered that the event date is May 3, since that is the actual BOM meeting. Please do not miss the evening social the day prior on May 2 if you wish to attend.*
Registration is closed.

Harris Ferry BOM Meeting
2025-05-17 09:00 - 11:00 | The Olive Tree (formerly Wertzville Diner), 743 Wertzville Rd, Enola, PA, 17025, United States
Howdy Gents!

We are scheduling a BOM meeting for 9am on Saturday May 17th at Wertzville Diner (743 Wertzville Road , Enola, PA).

A few fun things to review: recent grave markings, my personal trip to the 250th in Boston, new C.A.R. Society, and more. Nothing major, small slideshow.

A few important things to address: recap the recent PASSAR meeting, discuss upcoming 250th events, set a date for this year’s cemetery cleanup project, vote on next two Patriot grave markings (this could be YOUR ancestor) and more.

For those on the other side of the river: yes, I would like to schedule meetings there. No one likes crossing 83 bridge I get it (remember I’m originally from Annville!). I figured we’d try to split our meetings 50/50 since we have membership on both sides. July-ish meeting to be in Middletown I hope.

You’ll be hearing from me again after the meeting, as I will have the most recent chapter newsletter to send out (released the 15th), as well as the updated Calendar of Events (a day or so after this meeting). As always, both of these will be available instantly on our website if you don’t want to wait for the email.

I really hope to see some of you at these BOM meetings. While they may be a bit droll at times, it would be nice to see some more camaraderie and gauge opinions and potential volunteers for things. And by all means, if time, location, or venue is an issue let us know. If Middletown (for example) is a more preferred meeting location then let’s make it happen.

I appreciate all your time, hope to see you next Saturday!

Memorial Day 2025
2025-05-26 | PA
While there is no event scheduled, it is encouraged to visit a cemetery and place a few flags for our veterans. If you do place any flags, please report how many and where to the Flag Committee Chair Lemon.

C.A.R. Open House w/ Harrisburg Chapter, NSDAR
2025-06-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Henderson House, 17 E Main St, Hummelstown, PA, 17036, United States
An open house for those interested in enrolling new youth members in the new John Harris Jr. Society of the Children of the American Revolution.
Hosted by the Harrisburg Chapter, NSDAR at the Henderson House in Hummelstown.
June 8th at 1pm.
A light event, dress is casual, bring your kids, grandkids, anyone who may be interested in signing up! Children under the age of 22 with a patriot ancestor are eligible, and if YOU are a member of the SAR or DAR, they can use most of your application during the signing up process (which can be done later, no need to do any of that at this open house).

250th Anniversary of the U.S. Army
2025-06-14 09:00 - 21:00 | PA
National Society SAR and Virginia Society SAR event are hosting the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Army!
NSSAR 250th U.S. Army – Flyer

Mount Vernon @ 9am-12pm (free)

250 Ceremony @ 10am (free)
Grave Marking @ 11am (free)

Luncheon at the Mount Vernon Inn @ 12pm ($$$)
U.S. Army Museum Tour @ 2-5pm (free)
Gala Dinner Hosted by George Washington @ 6-9pm ($$$)

For prices and more details, please see the registration.
Registration Link
Hotel Registration (Marriott)

Flag Day w/ Harrisburg Chapter, NSDAR
2025-06-14 11:00 - 13:00 | Henderson House, 17 E Main St, Hummelstown, PA, 17036, United States
The Harrisburg Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution has invited Harris Ferry Chapter Sons of the American Revolution to the annual Flag Day event!
Time/Date: June 14th. Registration 11:00 am. Business Meeting/America 250! 11:30 am
Program: Flag retirement and installation of new flag
Where: Henderson House, 31 East Main Street, Hummelstown, PA.
Menu: Sub sandwiches, chips, cookies, bottled water
Cost: $10
RSVP By: Thursday, June 5, at noon
If you prefer to phone in your reservation, or have any questions, please call Bobbi Kitzmiller at (717) 774-3824. If you wish to email your RSVP, please contact Harris Ferry President Lemon and he will forward you the email from the DAR.

Carlisle Summerfair w/ Washingtonburg Chapter SAR
2025-07-05 11:00 - 13:00 | U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center, 950 Soldiers Drive, Carlisle, PA, 17013, United States
11:00 am – 1:00 pm Revolutionary War Living History Program – U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center, 950 Soldiers Drive. All ages welcome to join members from several local historical societies, dressed in 18th-century attire, to learn about Revolutionary War events and people. Visitors who complete all stations will earn a special gift in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. Stations include the Battle of Bunker Hill, Molly Pitcher, sign the Declaration of Independence with a quill pen, take a selfie with a Revolutionary War soldier, 18th-century games (shut-the-box, Nine-Man-Morris, Skittles). Groups attending: Washingtonburg SAR, Harris Ferry SAR, Shippensburg Historical Society.

Of the stations Harris Ferry will be assisting, we will be assisting with the “Connecticut Station: Revolutionary War Flags.” If you are interested in attending and volunteering please email President Lemon. That way I can communicate that aid to Washingtonburg.

Entire Carlisle Summerfair Schedule

America 250 PA Dauphin County Kick-off Celebration
2025-07-05 18:00 - 20:00 | Fort Hunter Mansion & Park, 5300 N. Front St, Harrisburg, PA, 17110, United States
Join the fun – Saturday, July 5 at Fort Hunter Park for a star-spangled evening of music, history, and sweet treats as we kick off the America250PA Dauphin County Celebration!
6 PM – Ice Cream Social | 7 PM – Concert Begins.
Enjoy a free concert by the Greater Harrisburg Concert Band. Indulge in historic ice cream flavors by Urban Churn, including: Jefferson’s Vanilla | Apple Orchard Crumble | Colonial Triple Berry Cobbler | Betsy Ross’ Strawberry Shortcake | Liberty Lemonade Sorbet (dairy-free delight!)
Bring your picnic blanket, lawn chairs, and love of summer vibes—this event is FREE and perfect for the whole family.
Rain Date: Sunday, July 6 (announcement will be made midday on July 5)
Part of the Sunset Music & Movie Series, made possible by our amazing event sponsors: Veolia, Visit Hershey & Harrisburg, Urban Churn, and Ollie’s.
Let the countdown to 250 years of American spirit begin!
*This is not an SAR event, but attendance does count toward the SAR 250 Medal*
https://www.visithersheyharrisburg.org/event/detail/america-250-pa-dauphin-county-kick-off-celebration/25881/

Cemetery Preservation Project - Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard
2025-07-12 10:00 - 17:00 | Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard, 1461 Ridge Rd, Grantville, PA, 17028, United States
Please see the following update for Saturday’s cemetery workshop:

Compatriots and Friends!

I wanted to send everyone an update on the cemetery workshop this Saturday 7/12/2025 at 10am at Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard.
First of all, THANK YOU to all that have responded, whether that is by volunteering, attending, donating, or even telling me you can’t make it (if you can’t make it and you got this email, sorry and feel free to delete). That communication is vital. I also want to say that I think we picked a very interesting cemetery to work at. Why? Not only has Harris Ferry worked at this site before (1940s and 1990s), but we have multiple chapter members who have ancestors buried here. This sort of work, bringing those descendants and brethren back to lend a hand to their own family’s gravesites, is one of the main reasons why I love this sort of work and why I want to give these opportunities to all of and the community.
Second, here are some more finite details about Saturday:

Weather: We’re looking at some slight rain, hopefully just a drizzle. Not the end of the world, might actually be refreshing, and it will help moisten stones so we don’t have to waste our own water. IF it turns ugly at any point, we can either wait it out or call it. (The cemetery isn’t going anywhere!)
Who is attending: So far, including myself, I’ve gotten about under a dozen people attending/volunteering. Whether more show up or not is a mystery; this was shared via email, with the DAR, with East Hanover Historical Society, and others. There is still time to come out if you like or donate if you wish, but zero commitments.
Time: I will be arriving early to set up and unload, probably around 8:30am. By all means come early if you wish. Those who volunteered to bring canopies may want to arrive early just so we can get those squared away. Start time is still scheduled for 10am.
Misc: We will raise a new flag on the pole, but no Color Guard or Ceremony. I would like to do this officially one day, maybe annually, but this project is meant to be for working with no real agenda. I am also bringing small pvc pipes that we can tap into the ground next to stones that are veterans, which makes them easily identifiable for those who bring flags out on holidays or occasions. I’m also bringing some slightly used flags I have a stockpile of that have plenty of life left in them.
Parking: Please see the attached images. We are going to do our best to safely park around the cemetery and along the street without going into the neighbor’s yard or hang out into the road. I’m trying to get ahold of the neighbor just in case; he used to mow it back in the day so I’m sure he wouldn’t mind if we had to park in the portion of his property, but I don’t want to assume anything.
Location: 1461 Ridge Rd, Grantville, PA 17028
Things to bring: comfortable/working clothes for hot or wet weather, gloves/hat/sunglasses, sun screen, foldable chair, umbrella
Things not to bring: pets, SAR medals or regalia, fancy clothes (you’re going to get dirty if you’re volunteering)
Refreshments: water will be available as well as granola bars. By all means bring more for yourself at least if you know you want to eat something a bit more hearty or lasting.

I am taking a half day from work tomorrow to mow and weed-wack if it is needed. I’ve confirmed the cemetery is mowed monthly, but I would rather stop out a day prior and do it myself so we aren’t walking through knee high grass in the scenario it hasn’t been cut yet.
If the weather is absolutely awful at the start of the day and shows no signs of letting up, I will email you, update the Facebook, and update the website with more information.
I believe that’s it, if you have any questions whatsoever, please ask. You may call, text, or email. You may forward this to whoever you wish. Thank you all so much, I’ll see those coming on Saturday!

Jacob R. Lemon (717-507-5364)

Below is an image of the parking layout:

Yellow: let’s park in these areas. If parking along the road, hug the grass so you’re off the road. When you approach the cemetery, the ground dips pretty sharp. I’ll help coordinate parking as people arrive.
Green: we will set up at least one canopy here near the entrance to the cemetery.
Red: overflow parking into the neighbors land that I would prefer we try to stay away from.

==========================
Compatriots! It is time to show our ancestors just how much we honor and respect them, and we will do so by helping to preserve their final resting places.
Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard (one of several names) is located in Grantville, near the Hollywood Casino. Back in the 1940s, Harris Ferry went to the church (now gone) and raised the issue of the cemetery’s deplorable condition. Over the years, the burial ground was repaired, including the beautiful stone perimeter. In the 1990s, Harris Ferry dedicated the cemetery with a large bronze marker by the entrance.
In the current time period, it would appear the cemetery is at least occasionally mowed, if not continuously. I am inquiring about that frequency and by who. We, however, have the opportunity to visit and conduct a workshop there. I will be leading this, as I have the knowledge and tools on how to clean, reset, and repair tombstones.
What will we be doing?

The plan is to clean as many tombstones as possible, with a focus on the veteran tombstones first (Patriot stones and those of later wars). Depending on the number of volunteers in attendance, that may be easily achieved and we can focus on other stones after.
If the number of volunteers is substantial, I and a few other will focus on resetting and repairing stones while the majority of others are cleaning. This ensures the survival of these stones for even more years.
Raising a new flag on the flag pole, which may be accompanied by a Color Guard. (more to come on this). We will also distribute new flags to veterans if existing flags are in need of retirement.

What can YOU do to contribute?

If you wish to volunteer to clean and help on the stones, by all means grab a pair of gloves and we’ll put you to work!
If you wish to simply watch and learn and hang out, that is more than welcomed. A lot of people like to learn about the process and some history along the way, especially if they’re unable to physically contribute.
Factoring in potential hot weather, we could use some help ensuring water and refreshments are available, a tent or two and chairs are available, etc. If you have any of these you are willing to bring and set up, please contact me promptly.
If you wish to make any sort of financial contribution toward supplies or to the chapter, that is always extremely appreciated. Contact me regarding this please.
RSVP to me ASAP if you wish to come, that is what I TRULY need from you so I can coordinate this effectively.

Miscellaneous

Date/Time: Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 10am to whenever we decide as a group to hang it up.
Rain Date: Sunday, July 13, 2025 at 12pm. (If both days are bad weather, this event will be rescheduled entirely and communicated on our website, Facebook, and email.)
Location: 1461 Ridge Rd, Grantville, PA 17028
Parking: There is parking along the street, but not much. This is very dependent on the number of volunteers. If there are only a few of us, we can park along the street or request from a local neighbor we park at their property and walk. If there are a lot of us, we may be able to park at the parking lot at Hollywood Casino and shuttle over via a van or bus. I will be in contact with the casino and someone who may be able to provide a van or bus.
Who is invited?: Anyone and everyone! Bring the kids and grandkids, other SAR/DAR/CAR members, your neighbors, all are welcome! (Just update me on who is confirmed coming, I’ll need a headcount.)
Things to bring: comfortable/working clothes for hot weather, gloves/hat/sunglasses, sun screen, foldable chair, umbrella (to shield the sun even)
Things not to bring: pets, SAR medals or regalia, fancy clothes (you’re going to get dirty if you’re volunteering)
Refreshments: water will be available as well as light refreshments. Depending on the number of attendees, we may be able to get a sponsor for food from a local shop.

That should be about everything, I’ll update this as I get more things hammered out. Please check this posting on the website for these updates. That link is: https://harrisferrysar.org/event/cemetery-preservation-project-old-hanover-presbyterian-churchyard/.
This project is meant to be fun, constructive, educational, and historical. Your cooperation and assistance is invaluable. Some of our own chapter members have Patriot Ancestors buried here, so let’s show them our support.
Contact me if you are volunteering, wish to attend as a bystander, wish to donate, wish to bring things to help out (tents, chairs, water, food, van/bus transportation, etc), or if you have any questions at all. You can reach me at the following email or phone number. If you call me, please leave a message and I’ll return your call (weeds out the spam calls we all get). You may also text.

email: jlemon93@hotmail.com
phone: (717) 507-5364

Thank You! – Jacob R. Lemon, President, Harris Ferry Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution
Miscellaneous Links

Find a Grave for Old Hanover Presbyterian Churchyard

“George Graham Vest: The Life and Times of Dog’s Best Friend”
2025-07-19 13:00 - 15:00 | National Civil War Museum, 1 Lincoln Cir, Harrisburg, PA, 17103, United States
Compatriots and friends! Saturday July 19th at 1pm the editor to the SAR Magazine Steve Vest will be speaking at the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg about his new book. His own distant cousin George Graham Vest coined the term “Dog is Man’s Best Friend!” Link to the website is here. Share with everyone and anyone, this should be an exciting time!
1 Lincoln Circle at Reservoir Park, Harrisburg, PA from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, but Steve should there around 1:00 pm.
In-Person Book Talk – George Graham Vest

Lafayette200 Lafayette Returns to Lancaster
2025-07-27 - 2025-07-28 | Lancaster, PA (Various Locations)
Bicentennial of Lafayette’s Farewell Tour Visits Lancaster, PA
July 27, 2025 @ 2:30 pm to July 28, 2025 @ 9:00 pm (multiple events, free and paid)
Direct link to website.
Link to PA website with registration.
*All Lafayette 200 Events qualify as SAR 250 Events
Questions: Kathleen 484 340 8162 [email protected]
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Ceremony & Troop Muster Lafayette Tower Park and Lafayette Fire Company
1905 Woodland Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17602
Sunday, July 27, 2025 – 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm
Step into history as one of the thousands of people who poured out to officially welcome Lafayette to Lancaster in 1825! Our free Lafayette200 Ceremony and Troop Muster will take place at Lafayette Tower Park and Lafayette Fire Company on the very same property where Lafayette inspected troops in 1825!
Schedule: 2:30 pm Grand Arrival Lafayette; 2:45 pm Speeches; 3:10 pm Lafayette Remarks; 3:20 Review of Troops; 3:45 pm Adjourn to Fire House for Display and Refreshments
Suggested Attire: Casual
Cost: Free Event, Reserve your free tickets today!
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Lafayette Presentation Franklin & Marshall College
525 W Frederick Street, Lancaster, PA 17603
Sunday, July 27, 2025 – 4:15 pm to 4:30 pm
Attend a special presentation to Lafayette by the President of F&M College in front of Old Main as we reenact Lafayette’s 1825 visit to the original Franklin College, a college founded in Lancaster in 1787 and named after benefactor Ben Franklin.
Suggested Attire: Casual
Cost: Free Event, Reserve your free tickets today!
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Bicentennial Candlelight Dinner & Period Ball
46 East King Street, Lancaster, PA 17602
Sunday, July 27, 2025 – 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Luxuriate in the beautiful surroundings of the Historic Trust46 Building as we recreate Lafayette’s 1825 Dinner and Ball in the city of Lancaster! Our spectacular Bicentennial Candlelight Dinner and Ball will feature a French-inspired candlelight dinner catered by White House Chef John Moeller as well as an elegant period ball with English Country Dance Caller Jenna Simpson and Musicians Mara Shea, Kathy Talvitie, and Bob Pasquarello.
Schedule: 5:00 pm Cocktails; 5:30 pm Candlelight Dinner; 7:00-9:00 pm Period Ball
Suggested Attire: Formal ~ Period Dress Optional
MENU:
Hors D’oeuvres: Gougere Cheese Puff
Salad: Garden Salad Tossed in a French Mustard Shallot Vinaigrette
Entrees (choose one):

Beef Bourguignon – Braised Beef in red wine, Bacon, & Mushrooms
Coq Au Vin –Braised Chicken in red wine, Bacon, Pearl Onions, & Thyme
Portobello & Mozzarella – Grilled portobello mushroom stuffed with Tomato Basil Sauce and baked with Baby Mozzarella Cheese (Vegetarian/Vegan/GF/DF Option)

Vegetables: French Beans & Carrots
Starch: Yukon Gold Potato Puree
Dessert: French Chocolate Mousse – Classic Chocolate Mousse with a Whipped Vanilla Ganache & Fresh Berries
Beverages: Beverages; Cash Bar
Cost: $100 per person (max reservations 100), Reserve your tickets today!
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Lafayette Day at Historic Rock Ford
881 Rockford Road, Lancaster, PA 17602
Monday, July 28, 2025 – 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Celebrate history during Lafayette Day at Historic Rock Ford! This free event will feature an exciting array of Lafayette-based activities including a Lafayette in Lancaster exhibit, a Revolutionary War encampment, games, crafts, speakers, sutlers, music, food, dancing, reenactors, tours, carriage rides, a visit by Lafayette, and much, much more! Full details at https://www.historicrockford.org.
Menu: Food available for purchase
Suggested Attire: Casual ~ Period Dress Optional
Cost: Free Event, Donations Welcome, Reserve your free tickets today!
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A Summer Evening with Lafayette Musical Performance Ware Center
43 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA 17603
Monday, July 28, 2025 – 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Delight in our musical extravaganza depicting the life and legacy of Lafayette in the Steinman Concert Hall at the Ware Center! Meet the important people in Lafayette’s life in this production that will feature the Allegro Orchestra, Gospel Choir, MFE Community Choir, Central York Fife & Drum Corps, and well-known guest performer Lancaster’s own James Wolpert! A performance to remember!
Suggested Attire: Casual
Cost: Free Event (max reservations 350), Donations Welcome, Reserve your free tickets today!

PASSAR 2025 Summer BOM Meeting
2025-08-02 | Comfort Suites (Altoona), 140 Stroehman Drive, Altoona, PA, 16601, United States
The Pennsylvania Society SAR 2025 Summer BOM meeting has been scheduled, hosted by Frontier Patriots Chapter, at Altoona, PA.

Fri Aug 1 – Evening Social: Registration from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Evening social from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Sat Aug 2 – BOM Meeting: Registration from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Meeting from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Lunch with Presentation from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

Please see registration form for complete agenda as well as hotel information.
*NOTE: on the website calendar it is entered that the event date is Aug 2, since that is the actual BOM meeting. Please do not miss the evening social the day prior on Aug 1 if you wish to attend.*
Registration is closed.

AMSA 2025 Conference
2025-08-15 - 2025-08-16 | The Wyndha Garden York, 2000 Loucks Road, York, PA, 17408, United States
The Atlantic Middle States Association SAR 2025 Conference has been scheduled, hosted by the Pennsylvania Society SAR, at York, PA.

Friday August 15, 2025
Saturday August 16, 2025
The Wyndham Garden York, 2000 Loucks Road, York, PA 17408
Full event schedule is listed on the registration, including historic tours, meals, cost, and more.

Room rates at the hotel are available online.
AMSA 2025 Registration
Other info can be found here: https://www.amssar.org/conferences

Harris Ferry BOM Meeting
2025-08-16 13:30 - 15:00 | The Olive Tree (formerly Wertzville Diner), 743 Wertzville Rd, Enola, PA, 17025, United States
Howdy Gents!
We are scheduling a BOM meeting for 1:30 pm Saturday Aug 16th at Wertzville Diner (743 Wertzville Road , Enola, PA).

A few things to discuss: review PASSAR meeting and recent cemetery project, discuss new cemetery project, grave markings, and celebrations (Constitution Day, Veterans Day, Annual Meeting, Presidents Day 2026)

Note: I believe I have found a suitable location for meeting in Dauphin County. I will try to confirm and host our next meeting there for convenience of those on the other side of the Susquehanna.
