List of Pennsylvania state historical markers in Forest County facts for kids
Have you ever walked by a special sign that tells a story about the past? In Forest County, Pennsylvania, you can find many of these signs! They are called Pennsylvania state historical markers. These markers are like outdoor history books, placed by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC). They help us learn about important events, people, and places that shaped Forest County and Pennsylvania.
There are 11 historical markers spread across Forest County. Each one shares a unique piece of history, from ancient Native American paths to important figures who helped protect our environment. Let's explore some of these fascinating stories!
Contents
Discovering History in Forest County
What Are Historical Markers?
Historical markers are special signs that tell us about history. They are usually made of metal and stand by roadsides or in towns. The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission puts them up. Their job is to make sure we remember important parts of our state's past. Each marker has a title, a date it was put up, and a short story. They help us connect with history right where it happened.
Exploring Forest County's Past
Forest County is full of amazing stories. These historical markers help us discover them. They cover many different topics. You can learn about early towns, Native American life, and even famous people.
Native American History
Long before settlers arrived, Native American tribes lived in Forest County. Several markers tell their stories.
- Goschgoschink: This marker, placed in 1947, tells about an important Lenape Native American village. It was a settlement where people lived long ago. You can find it on US 62, south of PA 127, near East Hickory.
- Hickory Town: Also dedicated in 1947, this marker points to another Native American village. It was an early settlement and part of important paths. It's located where US 62 and Little Hickory Road meet in East Hickory.
- Indian Paths: This marker, from 1947, reminds us of the old trails. Native Americans used these paths for travel and trade. It's on US 62, a few miles south of East Hickory.
- Lawunakhannek: This marker, also from 1947, tells about a Moravian mission. This was a place where missionaries lived with and taught the Lenape people. It's just north of East Hickory on US 62.
- Refugee Towns: There are two markers for "Refugee Towns," both from 1947. These markers tell about places where Native Americans found safety. They moved here during difficult times. One is south of Tionesta, and the other is north of East Hickory, both on US 62.
Early Settlements and Towns
Markers also highlight the beginnings of towns and communities in the area.
- Damascus: This marker, from 1947, is about the town of Damascus. It's located on US 62 at Tionesta. It reminds us of the early days of settlement in the county.
- Pigeon: Dedicated in 1948, this marker tells about the town of Pigeon. It's found on PA 66 and Pigeon Lane, northeast of Marienville. It shares the history of this small community.
Important People and Places
Some markers celebrate the county itself or important individuals.
- Forest County: This marker, placed in 1982, is right at the County Courthouse in Tionesta. It celebrates the county itself. It tells about the environment and how the local government was formed in the 1800s.
- Howard Zahniser: This marker, from 2001, honors Howard Zahniser. He was an important person who worked to protect the environment. He helped create laws to save wild places. You can find this marker on US 62 just north of Tionesta.
Travel and Trade
One marker tells us about how people used to travel and trade in the past.
- Holeman Ferry: This marker, dedicated in 1954, tells about an old ferry. Ferries were boats that carried people and goods across rivers before bridges were common. This one was on US 62, southwest of Tionesta.
These markers are a great way to learn about the rich history of Forest County. Next time you are there, keep an eye out for these special signs!
See also
- List of Pennsylvania state historical markers
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Forest County, Pennsylvania
Images for kids
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Damascus marker
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Forest County marker
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Goschgoschink marker
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Hickory Town marker
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Holeman Ferry marker
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Howard Zahniser marker
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Indian Paths marker
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Lawunakhannek marker
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Pigeon marker
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Refugee Towns marker (south of Tionesta)
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Refugee Towns marker (north of East Hickory)
