Sons of the American Revolution

Carlisle Summerfair w/ Washingtonburg Chapter SAR
2025-07-05 11:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | 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.

Constitution Day 2025 and Patriot Grave Marking Ceremony
2025-09-20 10:00 - 13:00 | Dauphin Cemetery, 100 Floral Ln, Dauphin, PA, 17018, United States
Harris Ferry Chapter is celebrating Constitution Day this year by honoring a Patriot of the American Revolution with an SAR Patriot Grave Marker! The Patriot is none other than Timothy Green, legendary Revolutionary War leader from the Dauphin County area.
The following details are tentative at this very moment and to be finalized on Sat Aug 16:
Saturday September 20, 2025

10:00-10:30 Arrival of Guests
10:30-11:30 Patriot Grave Marking Ceremony for Timothy Green at Dauphin Cemetery (100 Floral Ln, Dauphin, PA 17018)
12:00-12:30 Lunch at Dauphin-Middle Paxton Community Park (700 Claster Blvd, Dauphin, PA 17018)
12:30-1:00 Presentation by Jonathan Miller, “The Hometown Historian”

An official program will be released at the event. The cemetery and the park are across the street from one another, but realistically if you wish to drive they’re two minutes apart. The park offers a playground too if you wish to bring any youngsters with!
This event offers credit opportunities toward the Color Guard, 250th Anniversary, and Patriot Grave Marking Medals.
Flyer

Perry County America250 Liberty Tree Dedication
2025-09-24 11:00 - 13:00 | Millerstown Area Community Park, 110 W Juniata Pkwy, Millerstown, PA, 17062, United States
The community is invited to attend the Perry County America250 Liberty Tree Dedication!

11:00 AM – Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Millerstown Area Community Park (110 W Juniata Pkwy, Millerstown, PA 17062)
The event will include performances and recitations by students from Greenwood and West Perry School Districts, Keynote Speaker James Scott, Director, Perry County Veterans Affairs, and much more!
Revolutionary War Patriots Benjamin Bonsall and Ephraim Williams will be honored for their service
Three benches will be dedicated at the site along with a marker recognizing participants in Perry County’s America250 efforts
A Liberty Tree will be dedicated at the park, and another at Greenwood Schools (each school district in Perry County has planted an SAR-sanctioned Liberty Tree on their properties).
Bronze markers will be placed on the graves of the Patriots following the event.
All are welcome to attend as we honor Americanism. Historic attire is encouraged, but not required.
Rain date: Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 11:00 AM

Come help our Washingtonburg Compatriots in Perry County!
Flyer

CANCELLED: Cemetery Preservation Project - Paxton Presbyterian Churchyard
2025-09-27 10:00 - 12:00 | Paxton Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 3500 Sharon Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17111, United States
UPDATE: THIS CEMETERY PROJECT IS CANCELLED
The Paxton Presbyterian Church would like to be more involved with this project, but it was requested to have some more time to review and prepare. Harris Ferry will postpone this project for later this year or sometime next. I appreciate your understanding and apologies on any inconveniences! – J. Lemon
Compatriots! With the success of our recent grave cleaning at Old Hanover, I figured we could do the exact same thing again! This time the project will be at Paxton Presbyterian Churchyard in Harrisburg, the resting place for another large number of American Revolution Patriots. Included in these hollowed grounds is John Harris Jr., to whom our chapter is named after.
Paxton Presbyterian Churchyard is the site of Harris Ferry Chapter’s Wreaths Across America campaign, so it only makes sense for us to help spruce that cemetery up more than it already has been by the church. Criteria for the project will be exactly like before, but for those who didn’t get to attend before and would like the info, please see the following.
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.

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.
If someone has a tent we could set up that would be great. We didn’t need it last time, but it doesn’t hurt to have in case we want to set it up for those that want coverage.
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, September 27, 2025 at 10am to whenever we decide as a group to hang it up. Last time we cleaned about 50 stones and placed flags in two hours.
Location: 3500 Sharon St, Harrisburg, PA 17111
Parking: The church has a substantially large parking lot that should accommodate us all.
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, gloves/hat/sunglasses, sun screen, foldable chair, umbrella (to shield the sun even). Being September, we should hopefully out of the obnoxiously hot weather.
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.

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-paxton-presbyterian-churchyard/.
This project is meant to be fun, constructive, educational, and historical. Your cooperation and assistance is invaluable.
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, 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 Paxton Presbyterian Churchyard

Liberty Tree Dedication at Hampden Township Veterans Park
2025-10-05 14:00 - 15:00 | Hampden Township Veterans Park, 4345 Marketplace Way, Enola, PA, 17025, United States
The Community is invited to attend the Cumberland County America250PA Liberty Tree dedication at 2:00p.m. on Sunday October 5, 2025 at the Captain Leon Lock Veterans Memorial. The ceremony will be held at the Hampden Township Veterans park at 4345 Marketplace Way, Enola, PA 17025.

*This qualifies as 250th event

250th Anniversary of the U.S. Navy and Marines
2025-10-11 - 2025-10-13 | PA
National Society SAR and Pennsylvania Society SAR event. Philadelphia, PA.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11

250th Ceremony at Independence Square
Patriot Grave Markings:

Col. Samuel Nicholas – Commandant of the Marines
Commodore John Barry – Father of the Navy

Independence Hall Tour
Dinner at Glory Beer Bar & Kitchen

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12

Battle of Germantown Commemoration

Speaker: Michael Harris

5-Patriot Grave Marking at Germantown Upper Burying Ground

MONDAY, OCTOBER 13

Navy-Marines Homecoming 250 Parade
Museum of the American Revolution Tour

Event Registration
Hotel Registration
Complete schedule of events
Navy_Marines_250_Flyer

John Harris Jr. Society CAR Organizing Meeting
2025-10-12 | Henderson House, 17 E Main St, Hummelstown, PA, 17036, United States
The John Harris Jr. Society of the Children of the American Revolution is holding its first official Organizing Meeting, where State President Brasko will install the Society’s Officers and Senior Officers.
Harris Ferry Chapter President Lemon is the local CAR Society’s Senior Vice President, and his two children are charter members.
Come show your support to the future generation of SAR and DAR members!

CANCELLED: Middletown Cemetery Tour
2025-10-18 10:30 - 12:00 | Middletown Cemetery, 675 N Spring St, Middletown, PA, 17057, United States
UPDATE: THIS EVENT IS CANCELLED
Hi everyone! I had to cancel this event for this year; I didn’t have enough time to research the people I wanted to discuss interred at the cemetery with the list of other things going on. Let’s find time to do this next year, as I think this is a fun and educational activity. I’ll work with the Middletown Historical Association and try to bring in some more attention to it. Thank you for understanding! – President Lemon
—
Harris Ferry Chapter invites you to attend a tour of historic Middletown Cemetery!
Your tour guide, Chapter President Lemon, will walk you along the paved paths of the beautiful old section of Middletown Cemetery, highlighting some of the famous and interesting persons interred on the grounds. Revolutionary War Patriots are not the only people you will learn about as this cemetery is the resting spot to many other war veterans, actors, politicians, and sports icons.
Saturday October 18, 2025

Middletown Cemetery (675 N Spring St, Middletown, PA 17057)
Start time: 10:30-12:00
Parking will be determined soon
Rain date will be scheduled as well

Harris Ferry BOM Meeting
2025-11-01 09:00 - 22:30 | The Olive Tree (formerly Wertzville Diner), 743 Wertzville Rd, Enola, PA, 17025, United States
Howdy Gentlemen!
I would like to let you know we are scheduling a Harris Ferry BOM meeting. These meetings aren’t meant for just the board; all are welcome to attend!
Saturday, November 1, 2025
9:00am – 10:30am
The Olive Tree (formerly Wertzville Diner)
743 Wertzville Rd, Enola, PA 17025
Topics to discuss:

Nov 15th compatriot grave marking and Veterans Day celebration.
Officer election proposals and voting
Annual Meeting in December (This meeting will also be when awards will be given, as well as the yearly dinner).
Discussion on Washington Dinner in February.
A few upcoming events from neighboring chapters as well as a brief overview of a few things into 2026.

It’s scheduled early enough for us all to enjoy some breakfast. Hope to see as many of you there as possible!

PASSAR 2025 Fall BOM Meeting
2025-11-08 | 1863 Inn of Gettysburg, 516 Baltimore St, Gettysburg, PA, 17325, United States
The Pennsylvania Society SAR 2025 Fall BOM meeting has been scheduled, hosted by Continental Congress Chapter, at Gettysburg, PA.

Fri Nov 7 – Evening Social: Registration from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Evening social from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Sat Nov 8 – 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 Nov 8, since that is the actual BOM meeting. Please do not miss the evening social the day prior on Nov 7 if you wish to attend.*
PASSAR 2025 Fall BOM Registration

Veterans Day 2025 and Compatriot Grave Marking Ceremony
2025-11-15 11:30 | Grantville Cemetery (Saint John’s United Methodist Church), 165 Firehouse Rd, Grantville, PA, 17028, United States
Please note the changes in the agenda for this event that are now official as compared to the original proposed agenda!
Harris Ferry Chapter is celebrating Veterans Day this year by honoring a Compatriots of the Sons of the American Revolution with an SAR Compatriot Grave Marker! The Compatriot is John McIlhenny Smith, the first official President of Harris Ferry Chapter!
Saturday November 15, 2025

11:30-12:30 Compatriot Grave Marking Ceremony for John McI. Smith at Grantville Cemetery (Saint John’s United Methodist Church) (165 Firehouse Rd, Grantville, PA 17028)

An official program will be released at the event.
This event will count as credit toward the 250th Anniversary Medal, as well as the Compatriot Grave Marking Medal and Color Guard Medal if participating in either of those.

Wreaths Across America 2025
2025-12-13 09:00 - 10:30 | PA
Come honor our Patriots and servicemen at Paxton Presbyterian Church Cemetery for our 2025 Wreaths Across America program. Dress warm and bring your friends and family!
3500 Sharon St, Harrisburg, PA 17111
Start time: 9:00 am
*Qualifies as a 250th Event

Harris Ferry Chapter SAR 2026 Annual Meeting
2026-01-10 11:00 - 14:00 | Civic Club of Harrisburg, 612 N Front St, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, United States
Harris Ferry Chapter SAR 2026 Annual Meeting
January 10, 2026 – 11:00 a.m.
The Civic Club of Harrisburg – 612 N Front St, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Dear Compatriots and Patriotic Partners,
You are cordially invited to the Harris Ferry Chapter SAR 2026 Annual Meeting. The annual meeting will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at The Civic Club of Harrisburg at 612 N Front St, Harrisburg, PA 17101. The meeting will begin at 11:00 a.m., with a recess to enjoy lunch, and will finish with the program.
The agenda for the day consists of a few orders of business, such as the election and swearing in of the 2026 Harris Ferry Chapter officers, a recap of the events and successes of 2025, the presentation of awards, and an outlook on upcoming events. We will have an enjoyable presentation to close out the meeting.
The meal this year is catered by Mission BBQ and will be buffet style. The meal will consist of sliced brisket, pulled chicken, mac-n-cheese, green beans, slider rolls, and cornbread. Cost per attendee is $25.00. Guests are also welcome! Please send payment and registration form below to Secretary Gary L. Coburn.
There is no street parking or paved parking lot, however a flat grassy lot is next to The Civic Club of Harrisburg on the right side of Front Street that is parking-permitted. Keep in mind Front Street is a one way street. There will be a sign out front to help provide direction and from where to enter.
For those that confirm their attendance, an email prior the event will be sent out to you with further details regarding timing, parking, directions, and any other last minute updates. We hope to see you there!
HFSAR 2026 Annual Meeting – Registration

PASSAR 2026 Winter BOM Meeting
2026-02-07 08:00 - 14:00 | The Hyatt House, 240 Mall Blvd, King of Prussia, PA, 19406, United States
The Pennsylvania Society SAR 2026 Winter BOM meeting has been scheduled, hosted by Philadelphia Continental Chapter, at King of Prussia, PA.

Fri Feb 6 – Evening Social: Registration from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Evening social from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Sat Feb 7 – 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 Feb 7, as this is the actual date of the BOM meeting. Please do not miss the evening social the day prior on Feb 6 if you wish to attend.*
Registration is closed.

Washington's Birthday Luncheon 2026
2026-02-21 11:00 - 14:00 | American Legion Dominic D. DiFrancesco Memorial Post 594, 137 E. High Street, Middletown, PA, 17057, United States
Washington’s Birthday Luncheon
February 21, 2026 – 11:00 a.m.
American Legion Dominic D. DiFrancesco Memorial Post 594
137 E. High Street, Middletown, PA 17507
Dear Compatriots and Patriotic Partners,
You are cordially invited to Washington’s Birthday Luncheon, held annually by the Harris Ferry Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution and the Harrisburg Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. This year, the celebration is hosted by the SAR and will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at the American Legion Dominic D. DiFrancesco Memorial Post 594 at 137 E. High Street, Middletown, PA 17057. The celebration will begin at 11:00 a.m. with registration, a recess to enjoy lunch, and will finish with the program.
The meal this year is catered by the American Legion and will be buffet style. The meal will consist of beef, chicken, vegetables, potatoes, salad, rolls, dessert and coffee. Cost per attendee is $35.00. Guests are also welcome! Please send payment and registration form below to Secretary Gary L Coburn.
Optional: There will be a limited quantity of George Washington cockades available for purchase at the registration table for $30.00 each. Please do not pay in advance. Each cockade is handmade and modeled after original cockades that George Washington had commissioned for the Continental Army. If all cockades sell the day of the event and you are still interested, we will take your information and place an order after and deliver it to you.
Registration is closed.

Pennsylvania C.A.R. 2026 State Conference
2026-03-20 - 2026-03-21 | Hershey Lodge, 325 University Dr, Hershey, PA, 17033, United States
Pennsylvania C.A.R. 2026 State Conference
Registration is closed.

Harris Ferry BOM Meeting
2026-03-21 10:30 - 12:00 | Cocoa Diner, 590 E Main St, Hummelstown, PA, 17036, United States
Good Afternoon Everyone!

I am contacting you regarding an upcoming Harris Ferry Chapter BOM Meeting.

Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026

Time: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

Location: Cocoa Diner

Address: 590 E Main St, Hummelstown, PA 17036

Officers, please submit any items you need on the agenda to Secretary Coburn by March 16, 2026.

All chapter members are welcome, so please come on out! 2026 is going to be a busy year for Harris Ferry and the SAR.

We, specifically, have several grave markings already planned, and the entire SAR is celebrating the 250th this year.

I have updated information on official SAR 250th merchandise for anyone interested (to which I will bring with me and distribute via email).

Gary and the Hampden Township Veterans Recognition Committee have coordinated an official America250PA event on April 11, 2026 that I’m sure he will be updating us on.

And more!

Please message me if you will be attending or not (officers especially).

Thank You All!

America250PA Celebration w/ HTVRC
2026-04-11 14:00 | Hampden Township Veterans Park, 4345 Marketplace Way, Enola, PA, 17025, United States
The Hampden Township Veterans Recognition Committee is hosting an America250PA celebration at the Hampden Township Veterans Park. Harris Ferry Chapter is supporting this celebration, and neighboring SAR and DAR chapters will be contacting for their support as well.
Date: April 11, 2026
Time: 2:00pm
Attendance is free and all are welcome! Enjoy historical talk, patriotism, color guard, and an overall celebration for the 250th Anniversary of the United States! Commemorative pins will be given out for free, and even some exclusive 250th merchandise will be available for purchase (available to all, not just SAR members).

PSATS 2026 Annual Educational Conference
2026-04-20 08:00 - 12:00 | Hershey Lodge, 325 University Dr, Hershey, PA, 17033, United States
The PSATS 2026 Annual Educational Conference and Exhibit Show is scheduled for April 19-22, 2026, and PASSAR is leading the Color Guard on the opening of the event. There will be an SAR table on site where we will educate attendees on the SAR, attempt recruitment, and promote merchandise for the SAR 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Date: April 20, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM Color Guard Muster (the start time of the actual event likely 9:00 AM)
Please notify President Lemon of your attendance, Color guard participation, or willingness to assist with the merchandise table.

PASSAR 2026 Spring BOM & Annual Meeting
2026-05-02 | Penn Harris Hotel and Convention Center, 1150 Camp Hill Bypass, Camp Hill, PA, 17011, United States
The Pennsylvania Society SAR 2026 Spring BOM & Annual Meeting has been scheduled, hosted by Washingtonburg, at Camp Hill, PA.

Fri May 1 – Evening Social

4:30 PM to 6:00 PM – Registration
6:00 PM to 9:00 PM – Evening Social

Sat May 2 – BOM Meeting

8:00 AM to 9:00 AM – Registration
9:00 AM to 11:30 AM – BOM Meeting
12:00 PM to 1:30 PM – Lunch Buffet
3:00 PM to 4:30 PM – Memorial Service
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM – Social Hour w/ Cash Bar
7:00 PM to 10:00 PM – Banquet Dinner and Officer Installation

Please see registration form for full details.
Registration (due April 11, 2026)

Patriot Grave Marking at Shoop's Cemetery
2026-05-30 | Shoop’s Cemetery, 4332 Lexington Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17109, United States
Harris Ferry Chapter is celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the United States this year by honoring a number of Patriots of the American Revolution with an SAR Patriot Grave Marker plaque as well as a Pomeroy Foundation Patriot Burials Marker! Our chapter is also intending to commemorate all veterans that are buried in the mass burial lot alongside the Patriots from Old Shoop’s Church. This event will be in cooperation with Harrisburg Chapter DAR as it too is installing a marker.
The following details are tentative at this very moment:
Sunday, May 30, 2026

More details coming soon.

This event offers credit opportunities toward the Color Guard, 250th Anniversary, and Patriot Grave Marking Medals.
Event flyer coming soon.

Middletown 51st Annual Arts & Crafts Fair
2026-06-13 | PA
Harris Ferry Chapter SAR has secured a spot at the 51st Annual Arts & Crafts Fair in Middletown! Be sure to stop on by to learn more about Middletown History, the SAR, and even exclusive 250th merchandise!
More details to follow.

Patriot Grave Marking at Union Deposit Cemetery
2026-06-13 10:00 - 11:00 | Union Deposit Cemetery, 100 W Hershey Rd, Hummelstown, PA, 17036, United States
Harris Ferry Chapter is celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the United States this year by honoring a number of Patriots of the American Revolution with SAR Patriot Grave Markers as well as a Pomeroy Foundation Patriot Burials Marker! This event will be in cooperation with the South Hanover Township Historical Society.
The following details are tentative at this very moment:
Saturday, June 13, 2026

Start time: 10:00 am is tentative
More details coming soon.

This event offers credit opportunities toward the Color Guard, 250th Anniversary, and Patriot Grave Marking Medals.
Event flyer coming soon.
