Pennsylvania

• Population- 12,440,625
• Capital- Harrisburg
• Largest cities– Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown
• Time zone- Eastern
• Date of Admission to the Union- December 12, 1787
• Slogan- “Virtue, liberty, and independence”
• State website URL- www.state.pa.us

Two of the most significant documents in the foundation of the United States were created in Philadelphia: the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Before Washington, D.C. became the nation’s capital, Philadelphia held the honor. The Liberty Bell, one of the nation’s most signature symbols, is kept in Liberty Hall in Philadelphia. There have been a couple of different bells, the first was made in a foundry in London in 1751, but a subsequent crack inspired locals to cast another one, which also cracked. The bell was used to generate support for the Colonial spirit, then again during the Civil War in an attempt to mend the rift between North and South.

Agricultural heritage is strong in the central part of Pennsylvania. Lancaster County, also known as Pennsylvania Dutch Country, is abundant with a variety of Mennonite and Amish sects. These communities live, work, and worship much the same way they did a few hundred years ago.

Steel once was a large part of the state’s economy. Pittsburgh was one of the largest steel producers. The Pittsburgh Steelers is the city’s pro football team. Pittsburgh has twice been rated as the “Most Livable City.” The first time it held the honor was in 1985 and the most recent is 2007. Now the city is actually making a name for itself in technology, specifically robotics. Agriculturally the state leads in mushroom farming. According to Penn State University, the state rakes in over $250 million in mushrooms each year.

Hershey Pennsylvania is named for the chocolate company of the same name. Hershey is one of the largest tourist attractions in the state. In more recent years a number of other candy companies have set up shop in the region, as well. Another popular signature food item is the Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Heinz Ketchup is headquartered in Pittsburgh where it’s been since is founding.