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1. What is the bell ringing the museum sponsors on the 4th of July?

In 1963, Congress passed a continuing resolution asking Americans to ring bells on July 4th at 2 p.m. in celebration of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the 56 men who signed it. The descendants of the signers of the Declaration of Independence instituted a program to support this resolution called the "Sounds of Liberty" which began in the original 13 colonies and has now spread nationwide. Several years ago the Descendants organization asked that we establish a ringing in Yorktown which still continues, but later in the day to fit in with the overall schedule of the day.

2. Do you have records available for research?

We have very limited family history records on loan to us in our collections. People requesting information should contact Frank Green to arrange an appointment. All York County Court records are stored in the Court House on Ballard Street. The York County Library has a Virginiana Room at the Yorktown Branch on Route 17 and Battle Road.

3. Who owns the artifacts?

The Chiskiack Watch and Taylor Farm Collections were given to the museum. Volunteers are also helping with artifacts from nearby localities. The museum is contracting with professionals to catalog the Chiskiack Collection to make possible for scholars to use for research.

4. Is the museum staffed by County employees?

No, all docents are volunteers. We do contract with local archaeologists who work with us on a very limited basis, and others who volunteer their time.

5. Why isn't the museum open more hours?

Unfortunately, the museum is volunteer based. Therefore, it can only open when volunteer docents are available. If you would like to help us keep the museum open for more hours, please call 757-890-3508 or email meredith@yorkcounty.gov.