York's Colonial & Revolutionary War Period

Colonists

Settled in 1741, York owes its earliest beginnings to pioneering German, English, and Scots-Irish settlers. Similar to most of South Central Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania German, or “Dutch," traditions and culture were the most prevalent during the 1700s and 1800s.  The Golden Plough Tavern (wood and brick) a middle class Germanic style structure and the General Horatio Gates House (stone) representative of a high class English home, remain as some of the oldest buildings still standing in York. Discover York’s roots with a visit to the York County Heritage Trust’s Colonial Complex.  

Revolutionary War

York played an influential part in America’s history, hosting the Second Continental Congress in York for nine months during the winter of 1777-1778. A pivotal time during the American Revolutionary War, York served as the temporary home for John Adams, John Hancock, as well as a welcoming home to native Yorker James Smith. Adopting the Articles of Confederation and signing a treaty with France, the Continental Congress accomplished much during its stay in York.  Find out more about York’s Revolutionary history with a visit to the York County Heritage Trust’s Colonial Complex.