August 28: Continental Congress in Lancaster Presentation in Mt. Gretna

Join me at the Hall of Philosophy in Mt. Gretna on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 7 p.m., for my Capital Day: The Continental Congress in Lancaster presentation. This free, in-person program is open to the public and hosted by the Pennsylvania Chautauqua.

On September 27, 1777, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, became the capital of the United States for one remarkable day. But this was no ceremonial honor. It happened during one of the most dangerous moments of the American Revolution, as British forces advanced on Philadelphia and the Continental Congress fled for safety.

This presentation explores the dramatic sequence of events that brought some of the most important figures of the Revolution to Lancaster. Beginning with the Battle of Brandywine on September 11, 1777, the program follows the collapse of American defenses, Alexander Hamilton’s urgent warning to evacuate Philadelphia, and the tense journey of Congress through Pennsylvania as delegates sought to stay one step ahead of the British army.

Along the way, we will look at the movement of vital public papers, the hidden journey of the Liberty Bell, John Adams’ firsthand account of the flight from Philadelphia, and the arrival of Continental Congress members in Lancaster. The story culminates at the old courthouse in what is now Penn Square, where Congress met, conducted official business, and then quickly adjourned to York for greater safety.

More than a local footnote, Capital Day reveals Lancaster’s brief but meaningful role in the survival of American independence. For one day, while the future of the Revolution hung in the balance, the Red Rose City stood at the center of a young nation’s government.

Merch & Swag

I will have signed copies of my books for sale, including Capital Day: Lancaster and the Revolution, Ghosts, Monsters, and Tales of Adventure, and Uncharted Lancaster: Field Guide to the Strange, Storied, and Hidden Places of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

Pick up some free Uncharted Lancaster swag, like stickers and magnets.

Where to go

The Hall of Philosophy is located at 212 Gettysburg Ave, Mt Gretna, PA 17064, next to the Jigger Shop. Parking is highlighted on the map below. Visit the Mount Gretna Community Calendar web page for more information.

Learn More

Capital Day: Lancaster and the Revolution tells the dramatic story of the forgotten day when the Continental Congress fled Philadelphia, gathered inside Lancaster’s courthouse, and carried the fragile hopes of a young nation westward during one of the most dangerous moments of the American Revolution.

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