After serving in the American Revolution as a soldier in the Pennsylvania Militia, he founded Gettysburg in 1786 on the family farm, a log home. His 116 acres, which today is around the town circle, was purchased from his father, who had 386 acres in the Marsh Creek Settlement, which was the town's original name.
James Gettys then married Mary Todd, an ancestor of Mary Todd Lincoln. He served as sheriff, town clerk, road builder, state legislator, tavern owner, and a Brigadier General of local militia until his death in 1815.
The town he gave birth to what would be the site of the most famous battle of the American Civil War on July 1 to 3, 1863. The original building which was his home succumbed to fire in 1880.
After serving in the American Revolution as a soldier in the Pennsylvania Militia, he founded Gettysburg in 1786 on the family farm, a log home. His 116 acres, which today is around the town circle, was purchased from his father, who had 386 acres in the Marsh Creek Settlement, which was the town's original name.
James Gettys then married Mary Todd, an ancestor of Mary Todd Lincoln. He served as sheriff, town clerk, road builder, state legislator, tavern owner, and a Brigadier General of local militia until his death in 1815.
The town he gave birth to what would be the site of the most famous battle of the American Civil War on July 1 to 3, 1863. The original building which was his home succumbed to fire in 1880.
Bio by: Frank P. Marrone Jr.
Family Members
Advertisement
Records on Ancestry
Advertisement