List of Pennsylvania state historical markers in Centre County Facts for Kids

Location of Centre County in Pennsylvania

Have you ever seen a special sign by the road or in a town that tells you about something important that happened there? These are called historical markers! They are like outdoor history books, showing us where cool events took place or where famous people lived.

In Centre County, Pennsylvania, there are 29 of these amazing markers. They were put up by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC). These markers help us learn about the county's rich past, from brave soldiers and important leaders to old industries and Native American trails. Let's explore some of the fascinating stories these markers tell!

Discovering Centre County's Past
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Discovering Centre County's Past

Centre County is full of history, and these markers help us find it. Each marker tells a small but important part of the story. They cover many different topics, like how people lived, worked, and even played long ago.

People Who Made a Difference

Many markers celebrate people who were important in Centre County's history.

Andrew G. Curtin: The Civil War Governor

Andrew G. Curtin, a Civil War Governor.

One marker honors Andrew Gregg Curtin. He was the Governor of Pennsylvania during the American Civil War. He was born in Bellefonte. Governor Curtin worked hard to support the Union soldiers. He also helped create schools for soldiers' orphans after the war. This shows how much he cared about his state and its people.

Anna Wagner Keichline: A Pioneer in Architecture

Another special marker is for Anna Wagner Keichline. She was born in Bellefonte too. Anna was the first woman in Pennsylvania to become a registered architect! This means she designed buildings. She also invented things, like a special type of hollow building block. Her marker celebrates her amazing achievements in a time when few women worked in these fields.

John Montgomery Ward: Baseball Star and Advocate

John Montgomery Ward, a baseball legend.

Do you love baseball? Then you'll be interested in the marker for John Montgomery Ward. He was a famous baseball player from Bellefonte. He played in the late 1800s. But he wasn't just a great player; he also helped start the first baseball players' union. He fought for players' rights, which was a very big deal back then!

The Mills Brothers: Music Legends

The Mills Brothers, a famous music group.

If you enjoy music, you might know about The Mills Brothers. This famous singing group started in Bellefonte! They were known for their amazing harmonies and for making their voices sound like musical instruments. They became very popular in the 1900s and influenced many musicians. Their marker reminds us of their musical legacy.

Important Places and Events

Some markers tell us about significant places or moments in history.

The 28th Division Shrine

The 28th Division Shrine marker is near the Pennsylvania Military Museum in Boalsburg. It honors the brave soldiers of the 28th Infantry Division. This division has a long and proud history, serving in many wars. The shrine is a place to remember their courage and sacrifices.

Centre Furnace: An Iron Industry Hub

An old iron furnace.

The Centre Furnace marker tells us about an important iron furnace. This furnace was a key part of Pennsylvania's early industry. It made iron, which was used for many things, including tools and cannons during the American Revolution. The furnace was also important because it was near where Penn State University was later founded.

Bellefonte Air Mail Field: Early Aviation

The Bellefonte Air Mail Field marker reminds us of the early days of flying. Bellefonte was once a very important stop for airmail planes. These planes carried letters and packages across the country. This field helped connect people and businesses long before modern air travel.

Pennsylvania State University: A Place of Learning

Old Main at Penn State University.

The marker for The Pennsylvania State University highlights its long history. Penn State started as an agricultural college. It grew into a huge university that teaches many subjects. It has helped educate countless students and is a major part of Centre County today.

Ancient Paths and Trails

Before roads, Native Americans used paths to travel. Some markers tell us about these old trails.

The Great Shamokin Path and Warriors Path

Markers like the Great Shamokin Path and the Warriors Path show us where Native American trails once ran. These paths were important routes for trade, hunting, and travel for hundreds of years. They remind us of the early inhabitants of this land and how they moved through the wilderness.