DOBBIN HOUSE TAVERN ANNOUNCES A 250TH ANNIVERSARY DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION ON SATURDAY, JULY 4 TH , 2026

Gettysburg, PA (June 24, 2026) – In honor of the 250th birthday of the 1776 Dobbin House and the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, the Dobbin House Tavern, together with the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Sons of the American Revolution, invites the community to a festive Independence Day celebration on July 4, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the historic Dobbin House Tavern, 89 Steinwehr Avenue, Gettysburg, PA.

The morning begins at 10:00 a.m. with a stirring patriotic program featuring a town crier, a community singalong, an invocation offered by “Rev. Alexander Dobbin,” the presentation of the colors by reenactors, and a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence by “Thomas Jefferson”—echoing the moment it was first proclaimed to settlers of this region in 1776. The ceremony concludes with a moving rendition of “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes.

As an official America 250PA Adams County event, the celebration continues throughout the day with a wide array of familyfriendly activities: • Selfguided tours of the historic 1776 Dobbin House • Colonial music performed by troubadour John Durant • Signing your name to the Declaration of Independence • Colonial dressup photo opportunities • A Revolutionary trivia wheel with prizes • Games and a children’s scavenger hunt with prizes • Colonialthemed coloring • Livinghistory reenactors • The chance to “make history” by signing the official Dobbin House 250th Birthday Book.

Built in 1776 by Rev. Alexander Dobbin, one of Gettysburg’s earliest settlers, the Dobbin House stands as the oldest building in Gettysburg, sharing its birth year with the nation itself. Today it remains a beloved destination for dining, lodging, and shopping, welcoming guests to experience the enduring spirit of early America.

For more information about the Dobbin House Tavern, visit: https://www.dobbinhouse.com. For additional information, contact Chris Charney at chrisc@dobbinhouse.com, 717-334-2100 x124.

ABOUT THE DOBBIN HOUSE TAVERN-

Opened as an authentic colonial tavern in 1978, the Dobbin House Tavern is a treasured local landmark, offering premier lodging, fine dining and unique gifts to guests from the local area and around the world. Built in 1776, it is the oldest building in Gettysburg, celebrating its 250 th birthday alongside the birthday of the United States of America in 2026.

The Dobbin House, appearing virtually the same as it did over 200 years ago, stands as testament to the fortitude of the American spirit as well as the quality of genuine American craftsmanship. Its native stone walls, seven fireplaces, and hand carved woodwork have been painstakingly restored to their original beauty and character, with interior decor in the traditional eighteenth century manner. Many of the home’s antique furnishings are identical to those listed in the inventory of Rev. Dobbin’s estate. The china and flatware exactly match fragments which were unearthed during the re-excavation of the cellar. The servant’s period-clothing is authentic to the local area.

The Dobbin House features the Springhouse Tavern; casual dining, the Alexander Dobbin Dining Rooms; fine dining, the Abigail Adams ballroom; banquet dining, the Gettystown Inn; a bed and breakfast in three historic buildings, the Country Curiosity Store; boutique shopping and guided 4-century history tours of the house. As an authentic colonial tavern, many visitors say the allure of Dobbin House stays with them long after their visit. More than a superior culinary delight, to step into the iconic house is an enchanting journey back to the charming quaintness and lively spirit of Gettysburg’s and America’s beginnings.