Rare 1964 Chambersburg Pennsylvania 200-Year Bi-Centennial 11"x30" Felt Pennant For Sale

INVREF#CL41

vintage felt pennant commemorating the Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Bicentennial-Centennial celebration in 1964. The event marked both the 200th anniversary of the town's founding (1764) and the 100th anniversary of the "Burning of Chambersburg" during the Civil War (1864). Measuring 11"x30". Has some soiling (see pics).

Event Details

• Commemoration Year: 1964.

• Dates: The main events ran from July 23rd to August 2nd.

• Historical Context:

• On July 30, 1864, Confederate cavalry under Brigadier General John McCausland demanded a large ransom from Chambersburg residents.

• When the town failed to pay, McCausland ordered his troops to burn the town in retaliation for Union burning of property in the Shenandoah Valley.

• Approximately 550 buildings were destroyed, leaving over 2,000 people homeless. The event was the only time a Northern town was systematically destroyed during the Civil War.

• The 1964 commemoration featured a logo depicting the burning Franklin County courthouse and included pageants and publications detailing the town's history and resilience.

• Item Type: The pennant is a historical souvenir, similar to medals and booklets issued for the same occasion. 

Buyer pays shipping. See photos for more details.