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Historical Markers
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Pennsylvania: Founded 1681 by William Penn as a Quaker Commonwealth, Birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States.

The historical marker program, established in 1946, is one of the Commission's oldest and most popular programs. The blue and gold markers located throughout the state highlight people, places, and events significant in state and national history. Presently, more than 2,000 markers recognize Pennsylvania's history - from William Penn's country home, to the Lattimer Massacre, to the Pennsylvania Turnpike, the nation's first long-distance superhighway.

New markers are approved and placed along Pennsylvania highways and city streets each year. Most markers are dedicated in public events featuring public officials, local historians, community representatives, and others. Each dedication presents opportunities for Pennsylvanians to both celebrate and understand their heritage.

Nominations for historical markers may be submitted by any person or organization. The deadline for the receipt of nominations is January 5. Nominations are reviewed by a panel of independent experts from across the state and approved by PHMC commissioners in March.

To learn more about Pennsylvania's historical marker program, go to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission's web site. There you will find a listing of all the state's markers, along with locations and texts, and information about the process for nominating new markers.

The historical marker is a registered trademark of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the marker text is copyright protected. The marker images found on www.ExplorePAhistory.com are used with permission.

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