Land Conservancy’s 22nd Annual Summer Picnic

The Land Conservancy of Adams County invites residents and visitors to enjoy an afternoon where history, conservation, and community come together during its 22nd Annual Summer Picnic on Sunday, September 13, at 4 p.m.

The event will be held at the historic Daniel Lady Farm, located at 1008 Hanover Road, Gettysburg, offering guests a unique opportunity to gather at one of Adams County's most significant preserved landscapes.

The annual picnic has become a favorite tradition for members, volunteers, supporters, and anyone interested in preserving the natural beauty and historic character of Adams County. Guests can enjoy delicious food, good company, and the chance to experience a remarkable property whose story spans both agriculture and American history.

The Daniel Lady Farm occupies a special place in Gettysburg's history. During the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863, the farm served as the headquarters of Confederate General Edward "Allegheny" Johnson before becoming one of the area's largest Confederate field hospitals. Hundreds of wounded soldiers received treatment on the property, and today the farmhouse, barn, and surrounding grounds continue to tell the stories of those who lived, fought, and cared for the injured during one of the Civil War's defining moments.

While the site's military history draws visitors from around the country, the Daniel Lady Farm is also an outstanding example of successful land conservation. In 2005, the Land Conservancy of Adams County worked with its partners to permanently preserve 145.65 acres of the property through a conservation easement. That protection ensures the farm's scenic vistas, productive farmland, and historic setting will remain largely unchanged for future generations.

Preserving open space is one of the Land Conservancy's primary missions. By working with willing landowners throughout Adams County, the organization helps protect farms, forests, streams, wildlife habitat, and historic landscapes that define the region's rural character. Every conserved property contributes to a healthier environment while safeguarding the places that make Adams County a special place to live and visit.

This year's picnic provides an opportunity not only to enjoy a beautiful late-summer afternoon but also to learn more about the Land Conservancy's ongoing work and the impact conservation has on local communities. Whether you have supported the organization for years or are attending for the first time, everyone is welcome.

Guests are encouraged to bring a favorite picnic dish to share and spend time visiting with neighbors, conservation supporters, and history enthusiasts. The relaxed setting offers a chance to explore the grounds, appreciate the surrounding countryside, and celebrate the preservation of one of Gettysburg's most treasured historic farms.

The Land Conservancy's Summer Picnic has been bringing people together for more than two decades, reflecting the organization's belief that protecting the land is ultimately about protecting the communities that call it home. The Daniel Lady Farm, where history and conservation intersect, provides the perfect setting for this annual celebration.

Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP in advance by visiting PreserveAdams.org/summer-picnic.

Whether your interest is local history, farmland preservation, conservation, or simply spending an enjoyable afternoon with friends and neighbors, the 22nd Annual Summer Picnic promises to be a memorable gathering at one of Gettysburg's conserved historic landmarks.

Laura Geesaman serves on the board of directors for Land Conservancy of Adams County. The Land Conservancy of Adams County is a fully accredited, member-supported, non-profit land trust with the mission to preserve the rural lands and character of Adams County. For more information about the Land Conservancy visit PreserveAdams.org