Pennsylvania

In 1682, William Penn and 360 people settled Pennsylvania, hoping to find religious freedom and fair government. The colony played a major role in the Revolutionary War. Philadelphia, known as the City of Brotherly Love, was the country’s capital from 1790 to 1800 and the location for the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

Fun Facts

• Early settlers flocked to the state to take advantage of the forests, rich soils, and minerals found there. Immigrants from Germany, Ireland, and Scotland soon arrived.
• Amish people came to Pennsylvania in the early 1700s from Germany and Switzerland. Amish communities still exist in Lancaster County. These people shun modern life and work together on small, traditional farms.
• Pittsburg was a center of industry during the 1800s because of its steel and iron operations; Philadelphia was known for textiles (clothing and fabric), ships, and trains.
• In 1792, the first mint in the U.S. was established in Philadelphia.
• Visit Philadelphia on New Year’s Day and you’ll witness the Mummers Parade. A century-old tradition, more than 15,000 people dress in sequined and feathered costumes to walk in this parade.
• Hershey, Pennsylvania is home to the Hersey chocolate factory. Walk the streets and see if you smell chocolate!
• Betsy Ross is believed to have made the first American flag in Philadelphia.
• The first piano built in America was built in Philadelphia.
• Benjamin Franklin founded the first American zoo in Philadelphia.

Pennsylvania Quick Stats

Population: 12,703,379

State capital: Harrisburg (population 49,528)

Largest city: Philadelphia (population 1,526,006)

Largest Metro: Delaware Valley

State bird: ruffed grouse

State flower: mountain laurel

Admission to Union: December 12, 1787

Questions and Answers

Question: Where is the Liberty Bell?

Answer: The Liberty Bell is still in Philadelphia.

Learn More

Learn more about Philadelphia.