Best known for its small-town atmosphere, the Borough of Greencastle continues to serve its citizens, today, while still reaching back to honor the location’s tradition and history. Settled in the mid 18th century, Greencastle’s title was hand-selected by local citizens as a homage to the town in Northern Ireland that most settlers’ ancestors had emigrated from. Even in the town’s early stages, Greencastle became a staple in the center of the Antrim Township, as it was not only close to a water source, most likely Moss Spring, but radiated a value for community. Later, after the official founding of Greencastle by John Allison in 1782, marked the true beginning of the town’s economic and cultural growth evoked by the impending American wars.

Though not in the direct path of American wars and battles, Greencastle was no stranger to conflict, as it was the location of the first Union soldier killed on Pennsylvania soil during the Civil War, Corporal William H. Rihl. Furthermore, the effects of the Gettysburg Campaign ran rampant throughout the Borough, as the Confederate army took occupation in Greencastle, leaving the area to be the site of many skirmishes. Now, it is possible to retrace the steps of the Greencastle ancestors in the Allison-Antrim Museum, Hose Company (HOCO) Fire Museum, and along the Greencastle Borough Trail of History that features 14 historic sites from the early days of a small village to modern-day Greencastle.

Running for the third time for the position of Greencastle Mayor, Ben Thomas Jr. is hoping to continue his long-term dedication towards the Borough of Greencastle and its citizens. Incumbent Mayor Thomas’ focuses reside primarily in public safety and solutions to issues arising locally. His experience as mayor does not define his entire professional career, as he proudly claims his 51 years of volunteer work and 37 years in both law enforcement and municipal management. With no competition, Mayor Thomas claimed the Municipal Primary Election on May 20 for Greencastle Mayor. Unless opposed, Thomas will serve his third term since 2017 as the mayor of Greencastle.
Recent Town Council meetings and Borough Manager reports show several infrastructure renovations throughout Greencastle, including new Center Square parking meters, security upgrades in the Lilian S. Besore Memorial Library, floral beautification around the Borough Center Square for Old Home Week, and more! Most projects are funded by grants or allocated through the Town Council budget. The community should expect multiple changes throughout the next year in both technologies, construction, and updated public facilities.

Greencastle Mayor and Borough Council meetings are typically held the first Monday of every month at 7:00 PM in the Council Hall on 60 North Washington Street. The community is encouraged to attend the Town Council meetings and voice their perspective on the borough as a citizen. Though there is a 5-minute limit per person, Greencastle takes care to understand and address specific issues as they arise. Meeting dates are subject to change but are regularly available on the Greencastle Borough government website and electronic calendar.