Ben’s Place gift shop opens in Chambersburg’s Old Jail
Franklin County Historical Society-Kittochtinny is adding a gift shop to its museum and genealogical library at the Old Jail in Chambersburg.
Ben’s Place, which opened Thursday, pays homage to Ben Franklin, for whom the county is named.
Michael Ripton, president of the historical society’s board of directors, said the opening is designed to tie into the 225th anniversary of the founding of Franklin County.
The county was created on Sept. 9, 1784, and this year hosted a number of events honoring Ben Franklin and celebrating the 225th anniversary.
The new shop carries local history books, as well as children’s toys and games, clothing, blankets and other souvenirs related to local history.
Paul Cullinane, vice president of the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce, cut the ribbon to the gift shop.
“This will be a great addition to the Old Jail,” Cullinane said.
The shop is the first step in many improvements planned over the next 20 months at the Old Jail at East King and North Second streets, the home of the historical society and one of the few buildings to survive the burning of Chambersburg.
