Fourteen months after the original Declaration of Independence was read aloud to Yorkers, the Continental Congress assembled in the county's courthouse. During that meeting, the Articles of the Confederation were born, and once ratified, officially established what was at that moment coined the "United States of America." This is why residents esteem York, Pennsylvania as our nation's first capital, and it is just one of many reasons the area is considered a major player in the formation of the country.

Opportunities for learning about York's contributions to both the American Revolution and the Civil War are impossible to miss. Harrisburg, the state capital; Gettysburg, including tours of this pivotal battle's field of combat; the Soldiers National Museum, where individuals can view Civil War artifacts; and General Lee's Headquarters Museum are a mere 30 minutes away.

So, what would be the best indicator to York's founders that, since its original establishment, the region has become a living, breathing embodiment of "progression"? Perhaps the best people to ask are the new home builders in York County, Pennsylvania, themselves. More than anyone else, they are fully aware that York County is one of the fastest growing areas in the country, making York area homes for sale one really hot commodity. This really is no mystery when you consider the rich blend of industry, agriculture, scenic beauty, enterprise, culture and history woven into the fabric of this community.

A drive the same distance will take you to Lancaster, best known as "Amish Country," where you can enlist a Mennonite tour guide to introduce you to the stunning farmlands and countryside. And with Baltimore nearby, families can enjoy the more than 2,200 animals housed at the Maryland Zoo, or take in a baseball game at Oriole Park.

Then again, there is a more than ample list of activities to choose from if you want to take in the sights of York itself. Buggy rides, wineries, orchards, markets, antiques and Dutch-style feasts all contribute to the charm and ambiance of this atmospherically historical region. But it's the "creature comforts"-- like parks and trails, camping, skiing, ice skating, performing arts and fine dining -- that make York really feel like home. How refreshing that a place so steeped in tradition has carved a niche for itself in such a modern world!