East Hanover Township, Dauphin County, is located approximately 12 miles east of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania’s State Capital. The Township is bounded on the east by East Hanover Township, Lebanon County; on the south by South Hanover and Derry Townships; on the west by West Hanover and Middle Paxton Townships; and on the north by Rush Township.

East Hanover is the third largest township in Dauphin County, having a land area of 39.1 square miles with a population hovering around 5,400. It is rectangular in shape, approximately 10 miles long and 4 miles wide. The length of the Township can be roughly divided into thirds by US 22 forming the northern boundary of the southern third and the Blue Mountain forming the southern boundary of the northern third. The Northern third of the Township is primarily state owned and contains State Game Land #211 and the Ft. Indiantown Gap Military Facility.

History

East Hanover Township has a long and rich history which predates the arrival of early settlers in the early 1700’s. The Susquehannock Indians lived in the area and left behind many artifacts indicative of native culture and land use.

Early settlers to East Hanover included the Scotch-Irish and German, many of whom were skilled craftsmen, including carpenters, stone masons, and blacksmiths. The skills proved useful, as many of the area’s earliest houses and churches were constructed of native stone and abundant timber.

East Hanover Township was part of the original West Hanover Township in Dauphin Country. In 1842, West Hanover Township was split into three separate municipalities; West Hanover Township, East Hanover Township, and South Hanover Township.

In the late 1800’s, the two main villages in East Hanover Township were Grantville and Shellsville (then called Earleysville). Both villages were centers of activity, including stores, schools, various craftsmen shops, and homes. The main east/west road through the township has always passed through the two villages. The opening of Fort Indiantown Gap in 1931 eliminated most public access in the northern quarter of the township.

East Hanover Township includes many significant historical sites, including Manada Furnace, early schoolhouses, mill sites, churches, and commercial establishments in Grantville and Shellsville. Remnants of the Union Canal, including several locks, are located along the Swatara Creek in the southern portion of the township.