The City of Havre de Grace traces its origin to the day in 1658 when settler Godfrey Harmer purchased 200 acres of land that he called Harmer’s Town. That tract is the heart of the present-day Historic District of Havre de Grace. In 1695, the Lower Susquehanna Ferry made its first crossing of the river from Harmer’s Town; it continued to operate for 170 years.
The Marquis de Lafayette noted in his diary on August 29, 1782: “It has been proposed to build a city here on the right bank and near the ferry where we crossed. It should be called Havre de Grace.” The citizens took his advice, and three years later incorporated the town as The City of Havre de Grace. Later they honored Lafayette with a statue that stands at the main downtown portal, looking toward the ferry crossing that brought him to the place he called “Harbor of Mercy.”
Month and day of incorporation unknown.
The Mayor and 3 At-Large councilmembers are elected in odd years and 3 At-Large councilmembers are elected in even years. All serve 2-year terms.
