Take a look back at Franklin County’s history through news and photos that appeared in local newspapers 25, 50, and 100 years ago on Dec 16th.
25 Years Ago
December 16, 1996 – Monday
“Away in a Manager”
Chambersburg – A live nativity scene was performed Sunday at the Presbyterian Church of Falling Spring, Main Street, Chambersburg. The actors: Brian Hanks, left, as Joseph; Amanda Pry or as Mary; Molly Boozer as a guardian angel; Ian Thompson, Krista Shoemaker and Alison Kampstra as shepherds; Matt Soper, Justin Hanks and Courtney Garcia as the three wisemen; and Jessica Sharpe, Aubrey Miller, Summer Thompson and Kristy Erwin as angels.
50 Years Ago
December 16, 1971 – Thursday
Bid Accepted for Buchanan Homes Building”
Chambersburg– The Federal National Mortgage Association announced Wednesday that it has accepted the offer of Operation Concern Homes Inc. to buy a four unit dwelling in the Buchanan Homes area. Conditions of the sale specify the building must be torn down.
The Rev. William Wealand, president of the local group, said this morning the purchase price is $475. He had no estimate of demolition costs.
The building is located at 22, 24, 26 and 28 Redwood St. and is vacant.
Wealand said the tract will be landscaped to provide recreational space. He said recreational equipment will be installed eventually.
The minister said Operation Concern Homes, in addition to attempting to provide alternate housing for Buchanan Homes residents and others, will become holders of other properties as they become available and as finances can be provided.
100 Years Ago
December 16, 1921 – Friday
“Nine new members added to local Historical Society“
Chambersburg – The history and achievements of the Chambersburg Academy were interestingly described in the paper read before the Kittochtinny Historical Society late night by Prof. U. L. Gordy, superintendent of the Chambersburg public schools. The paper was accompanied by a number of interesting photographs.
The meeting of the society was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Brereton in Fifth avenue. There were about 40 members of the society present and 10 guests. Eight new members were added to the roll of the society.
Mrs. Brereton was assisted in- entertaining by Mr. H. W. Derbyhlre, Mrs. H. B. Marks. Mrs. F. N, Emmert, Mm W. A. Leech, Miss Elizabeth Shoemaker, Miss Elise Snapp and the Misses Pomeroy.
The new members are W. R. Snively and M. T. Brown of Waynesboro, the Rev. Lester M. Conrow, William J. Patten and Charles H. Clippinger of Greencastle, H. H. Spangler of Mercersburg, Edward B. Delhi of St. Thomas, the Rev. S. B. Daugherty and Dr. C. L. Hartman of town.
