P.H. Glatfelter, founder of P.H. Glatfelter Inc., has made a profound impact on Gettysburg College, as well as the surrounding area.
In 1863, Glatfelter at the young age of 26 and with little financial support, purchased a failing, single machine paper mill in Spring Grove, Pennsylvania. Glatfelter Paper grew to become the largest producer of book publishing paper in the United States.
During a time of financial struggle, Glatfelter gave a $10,000 gift to Gettysburg College for the purpose of constructing a new building. In 1888, in the midst of a recession, the first stone of this building was laid. Glatfelter let it be known that he did not want this building named after him. For twenty-four years, this newly erected building was known simply as the Recitation Hall. Following his death in 1912, the building that Glatfelter so generously supported was appropriately named Glatfelter Hall in his memory.
Glatfelter was named to the Board of Trustees at Gettysburg College in June 1888. He served as president of the Board from 1900 until 1904.
Today, Glatfelter Hall continues to stand as a living monument to the visionary leader of P.H. Glatfelter.
300 North Washington Street · Gettysburg, PA 17325