What's Happening?
The Dobbin House Tavern in Gettysburg is set to commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary with a public Independence Day celebration. The event, scheduled for July 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., will feature reenactors, music, and family activities.
Organized in collaboration with the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Sons of the American Revolution, the celebration also marks the 250th birthday of the historic tavern. The program will include a town crier, a community sing-along, and an invocation by a reenactor portraying the Rev. Alexander Dobbin. Attendees will witness a presentation of the colors and a reading of the Declaration of Independence by a reenactor portraying Thomas Jefferson. The ceremony will conclude with a bagpipe rendition of 'Amazing Grace.' The Dobbin House, built in 1776, is recognized as the oldest structure in Gettysburg and serves as a restaurant, inn, and shop.
Why It's Important?
This event is significant as it not only celebrates the nation's founding but also highlights the historical importance of the Dobbin House Tavern, a landmark that shares its founding year with the United States. The celebration serves as an educational opportunity, offering interactive experiences that connect attendees with the nation's colonial past. By involving organizations like the Daughters and Sons of the American Revolution, the event underscores the importance of preserving and honoring American history and heritage. It also provides a platform for community engagement and cultural enrichment, drawing visitors to Gettysburg, a town steeped in historical significance.
What's Next?
Following the morning ceremony, a variety of family-friendly activities will continue throughout the day. Visitors can participate in self-guided tours of the 1776 home, enjoy colonial-era music, and engage in interactive experiences such as signing a copy of the Declaration of Independence. Additional activities include a colonial dress-up photo opportunity, a Revolutionary-themed trivia wheel, and living-history reenactments. Children's programming will feature a scavenger hunt, games, and colonial-themed coloring activities. Attendees will also have the chance to sign the Dobbin House 250th Birthday Book, further connecting them to the historical significance of the site.
