Hanover in York County, Pennsylvania — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Richard McAllister
Founder of Hanover
In 1745, Richard McAllister purchased 217 acres from John Digges, establishing the original town of Hanover. Hanover is situated at the crossroads of two major colonial highways - the Monocacy Trail from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to Frederick, Maryland, and The Great Road from Baltimore to Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
Known variously as Hickory Town after heavy tree growth or McAllister's Town, Hanover became the adopted name to please the predominantly local German inhabitants. By 1763, McAllister had subdivided the town into 155 building lots with a two-acre center square. McAllister operated a mill north of York Springs, had an interest in local iron making, and operated a general store on Center Square.
At the time of McAllister's death in 1795, Hanover's population numbered 500. During his lifetime Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and George and Martha Washington traveled through Hanover. The restored Neas House at 113 West Chestnut Street dates from this colonial period.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Colonial Era • Industry & Commerce • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #03 Thomas Jefferson series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1745.
Location. Marker has been permanently removed. It was located near 39° 48.032′ N, 76° 58.968′ W. Marker was in Hanover, Pennsylvania, in York County. Marker was at the intersection of Broadway and Carlisle St., on the left when traveling south on Broadway. Marker is on the SE corner of the town square with 7 other markers about the town of Hanover. Touch for map. Marker was in this post office area: Hanover PA 17331, United States of America.
We have been informed that this sign or monument is no longer there and will not be replaced. This page is an archival view of what was.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this location. Hanover's Wounded (a few steps from this marker); Market House (a few steps from this marker); Battle of Hanover (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Battle of Hanover (within shouting distance of this marker); The Union Strikes Back (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Battle of Hanover (within shouting distance of this marker); Major General George Armstrong Custer (within shouting distance of this marker); Army of the Potomac (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Hanover.
Related markers. Click here for a list of markers that are related to this marker. To better understand the relationship, study each marker in the order shown.
Credits. This page was last revised on March 1, 2023. It was originally submitted on January 29, 2008, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland. This page has been viewed 1,891 times since then and 59 times this year. Last updated on September 8, 2021, by Shane Oliver of Richmond, Virginia. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 29, 2008, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland. 3. submitted on September 8, 2021, by Shane Oliver of Richmond, Virginia.