Find the latest things to do
in Lancaster County Pennsylvania

Paul Kahan, Ph.D.For the first Regional History Colloquium of the 2016-2017 Series, LancasterHistory.org welcomes Paul Kahan, Ph.D. who will present a lecture on his most recent publication Amiable Scoundrel: Simon Cameron, Lincoln's Scandalous Secretary of War. From abject poverty to undisputed political boss of Pennsylvania, Lincoln's Secretary of War, senator, chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and a founder of the Republican Party, Simon Cameron was one of the 19th-century's most prominent political figures. In his wake, however, he left a series of questionable political and business dealings, and, at the age of eighty, even a sex scandal.

The colloquium Amiable Scoundrel will take place on Thursday, September 29, 2016 in Ryder Hall at LancasterHistory.org, 230 N President Avenue, Lancaster. A social gathering with refreshments and booksigning by the author will begin at 4pm, followed by the lecture from 4:30-5:30pm. This event is free and open to the public.

Celebrate Halloween with haunting tales of otherworldly vigils, fatal curses, and spirits that roam the night in one of America's oldest cities. A costumed guide leads this candlelight walking tour of downtown Lancaster, sharing ghost stories, mysteries, and legends at a number of haunted hotspots. Advance ticket purchase required. Ghost Tours also available in Strasburg.

Join us as we step back to October 1864, one month before the Presidential election. Peace Democrats were Northern Party members vehemently opposed to Lincoln's war policy; they were advocates of restoration of the Union through a negotiated settlement. War Democrats rejected the Peace platform altogether. At this time many Americans questioned James Buchanan's patriotism; some even sent him written threats. Here is your chance to eavesdrop on Mr. Buchanan as he and his Democratic friends enjoy a social gathering at Wheatland. As you watch and listen, try to figure out who are the Copperheads and who are War Democrats.

Copperhead or War Democrat takes place on Saturday, October 1, 2016 with tours on the hour starting at 12pm and the last starting at 3pm. We strongly advise making reservations in advance for your tour since tours do fill up and walk-in space is not guaranteed.

Visit LancasterHistory.org/events or call 717-392-4633 to purchase your tickets.