A detailed look at the formation of the colony of Pennsylvania, its government, and its overall history, plus a prologue on world events in 1681 and an epilogue on Pennsylvania today.
The genealogist trying to locate families, the surveyor or attorney researching old deeds, or the historian seeking data on land settlement will find Pennsylvania Land Records an indispensable aid. The land records of Pennsylvania are among the most complete in the nation, beginning in the 1680s. Pennsylvania Land Records not only catalogs, cross-references, and tells how to use the countless documents in the archive, but also takes readers through a concise history of settlement in the state. The guide explains how to use the many types of records, such as rent-rolls, ledgers of the receiver general's office, mortgage certificates, proof of settlement statements, and reports of the sale of town lots. In addition, the volume includes: cross-references to microfilm copies; maps of settlement; illustrations of typical documents; a glossary of technical terms; and numerous bibliographies on related topics.
The Keystone State, so nicknamed because it was geographically situated in the middle of the thirteen original colonies and played a crucial role in the founding of the United States, has remained at the heart of American history. Created partly as a safe haven for people from all walks of life, Pennsylvania is today the home of diverse cultures, religions, ethnic groups, social classes, and occupations. Many ideas, institutions, and interests that were formed or tested in Pennsylvania spread across America and beyond, and continue to inform American culture, society, and politics. Pennsylvania: A History of the Commonwealth is the first comprehensive history of the Keystone State in almost three decades. In it distinguished scholars view Pennsylvania's history critically and honestly, setting the Commonwealth's story in the larger context of national social, cultural, economic, and political development. Part I offers a narrative history and Part II offers a series of "Ways to Pennsylvania's Past" -- nine concise guides designed to enable readers to discover Pennsylvania's heritage for themselves. Pennsylvania: A History of the Commonwealth is the result of a unique collaboration between The Pennsylvania State University Press and The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC), the official history agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The result is a remarkable account of how Pennsylvanians have lived, worked, and played through the centuries.
The definitive reference guide to artifacts representing 14,000 years of cultural evolution Pennsylvania is geographically, ecologically, and culturally diverse. The state is situated at the crossroads of several geographic zones and drainage basins which resulted in a great deal of variation in Native American societies. The Archaeology of Native Americans in Pennsylvania is the definitive reference guide to rich artifacts that represent 14,000 years of cultural evolution. This authoritative work includes environmental studies, descriptions and illustrations of artifacts and features, settlement pattern studies, and recommendations for directions of further research. Containing previously unpublished data and representing fifty years of collaborative findings gathered under historic preservation laws, the book is organized into five parts, reflecting five major time periods. Essential for anyone conducting archaeological research in Pennsylvania and surrounding regions, especially professionals conducting surveys and research in compliance with state and federal preservation laws, as well as professors and students engaging in research on specific regions or topics in Middle Atlantic archaeology.
This volume invites readers to step back in time to colonial Pennsylvania, in whose storied history we can find the origins of the United States. This comprehensive look at Pennsylvania’s colonial era covers its Quaker origins, early industry, its unique social and religious climate, and the role it played in America’s most important revolutionary events. Readers will learn about key historical figures, such as William Penn and Benjamin Franklin, as well as monumental historical events that took place in Pennsylvania, including the meeting of the First and Second Continental Congresses, the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and more. Primary sources, maps, and period-specific artwork transport readers back in time to the second state’s legendary colonial history.
How much do you know about the state of Pennsylvania? There's so much to learn about the Keystone State that even its residents don't know. In this trivia book, you'll learn more about Pennsylvania's history, pop culture, inventions, sports, and more! In The Great Book of Pennsylvania, you'll find the answers to the following questions: How did Pennsylvania get its name? Why is it known as the "Keystone State"? Do you know how Hersheypark got started? Do you know which best-selling musician had her first concert at a fair in Pennsylvania? Which famous board game was invented by a Pennsylvanian using stolen ideas from other board games? Which famous fast food item started out in PA? Who was the Stroudsburg Rain Man? What places in Pennsylvania are said to be haunted? Where are you most likely to find Thomas Jefferson's ghost? And so much more! This book is full of facts about Pennsylvania. Some of the facts you'll learn in this book are surprising, some are sad, and others may give you the chills. But the one thing they have in common is they're all interesting! Whether you're just learning about the Keystone State or you already think you're an expert on the state, you're bound to learn something you didn't know in every chapter. Your friends will be amazed at your next trivia night. So, what are you waiting for? Get started to learn more about Pennsylvania!
This book is a comprehensive overview of the settlement of western Pennsylvania, with a focus on the evolution of the Borough of Freeport from its founding in 1797 to today. Included is a brief summary of the influences of the Native American Indians, founders William and David Todd, transportation including the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal and the Railroad systems, business and industry development from early settlement to current services, distilleries, newspapers, churches and much more.