15 Interesting Facts About Pennsylvania

Introduction:

Pennsylvania is known as The Keystone State, and it has much more interesting facts behind its name than you’d originally think. From interesting foods, unique attractions, to an incredible history, Pennsylvania truly is an interesting and wonderful place! Here are 15 interesting facts about Pennsylvania that will make you appreciate and respect the state even more.

Fact 1: Philadelphia was the home to the first ever computer

Philadelphia was the birthplace of the world’s first general purpose computer. The ENIAC, an acronym for Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer, was built at the University of Pennsylvania in 1946. The mammoth, some 17,468 vacuum tubes and about 1,800 square feet of floor space, helped to prove that people could design and construct computers that have many applications and are not limited to just one use.

Fact 2: Hershey is the Sweetest Place on Earth

Known as the “Chocolate Capital of the World”, Hershey, Pennsylvania is a lot sweeter than you thought – there is no income tax in the town of Hershey! This perk is largely because of the success of Hershey’s Chocolate Factory, which generates enough revenue to keep the town running without the need for a tax.

Fact 3: Pennsylvania is home to the first ever land trust in America

The Nature Conservancy’s Christmas Tree Farm in north-central Pennsylvania is the first project in the nation to be purchased and protected with private funds. Known as a land trust, the project includes more than 1,000 acres of protected land, which includes 120 species of birds, and various other animals, plants, and wildlife.

Fact 4: Pennsylvania is an exceptionally green state

Pennsylvania is 47th in the US for population, but it clocks in at 13th in total area. This is because the state is abducted with green spaces, such as the Allegheny National Forest, which is a whopping 1.7 million acres. Pennsylvania is also home to numerous state parks, national parks, and some of the country’s best hiking trails.

Fact 5: Don’t mess with the Pennsylvania state bird

The ruffed grouse may not seem too intimidating from a distance, but these birds are no joke. The state legislature officially recognized the ruffed grouse as the state bird in 1931, and for good reason – they can fly up to 40 miles per hour and reach heights of more than 200 feet.

Fact 6: Pennsylvania has a deep history with the Liberty Bell

The famous Liberty Bell once rang from the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was read aloud. The Liberty Bell then moved to Pennsylvania in 1777, remaining there until 1846, when it was moved to its current home in a glass pavilion near Independence Hall.

Fact 7: The first official American Flag was sewn in Pennsylvania

The very first American flag was officially sewn in Pennsylvania by Betsy Ross. The flag was accepted by the Continental Congress in 1777 and was made with 13 stripes and 13 stars, representing the original 13 colonies.

Fact 8: Pennsylvania had the world’s first all-infrastructure highway

Pennsylvania was also home to the world’s first all-infrastructure highway. Originally called the Pennsylvania Turnpike, the highway stretches for 550 miles from the Ohio border all the way to the Susquehanna River.

Fact 9: The first-ever Major League Baseball game was played in Pittsburgh

The world’s first ever major league baseball game was played in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1876. The game was actually an exhibition game instead of an official season opener, and the franchise won by a score of 3-2.

Fact 10: American pretzels were created in Pennsylvania

Though its exact origin is up for debate, it is generally credited that the American pretzel was first created in Pennsylvania. The snack was notoriously popular among miners who would twist the dough into a knot to enjoy during their lunch breaks.

Fact 11: The Quaker State is quite little free library friendly

Little Free Library movement really exploded in Pennsylvania. The Keystone state currently has over 900 Little Free Libraries, more than any other state in the country. These libraries aren’t just reading resources – they’re beacons for community and neighborly engagement.

Fact 12: The state is a haven for Craft Beer Lovers

Pennsylvania is known for its craft breweries, and it’s known as a haven for beer lovers. The state is home to a veritable smorgasbord of craft breweries with award-winning craft beers that will tantalize your taste buds.

Fact 13: Pennsylvania is home to the first skyscraper

Philadelphia was the birthplace of the first skyscraper in the U.S. The building, finished in 1881, stood 10 stories tall and was the first commercial building to exceed the height of the Great Pyramid of Giza.

Fact 14: The oldest continuously operating brewery in the US is in Pennsylvania

The oldest continuously operated brewery in the United States is the Yuengling brewery in Pennsylvania. Brewing since 1829, the brewery is still owned and operated by the same family today.

Fact 15: Pennsylvania is the “Snack Food Capital of the World

Pennsylvania is known as the “Snack Food Capital of the World” and for good reason. With famous brands like Hershey’s, Snyder’s of Hanover, Utz Quality Foods, and R.H. Bader, Pennsylvania is a haven for all your snack food needs.

Conclusion

Pennsylvania is a wonderful and dynamic state filled with interesting facts. From unique landmarks, to different foods, and a varied history, Pennsylvania is an amazing place that’ll make sure your next trip or adventure a great one. There are countless more exciting facts about Pennsylvania than the ones listed, and you are sure to learn even more about the Keystone State as you explore it.