List of Pennsylvania state historical markers in Northampton County facts for kids
Northampton County in Pennsylvania is a place rich in history! All around the county, you can find special signs called historical markers. These markers are like outdoor history books. They tell us about important people, places, and events that happened right where we are standing.
The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) puts up these markers. They help everyone learn about Pennsylvania's past. There are 69 of these historical markers in Northampton County. Let's explore some of the fascinating stories they share!
Exploring Northampton County's History
Historical markers help us discover the past. They show us where important things happened. Each marker tells a unique story. These stories cover many different topics. They include early settlements, big wars, and famous people.
Pioneers and Early Settlements
Many markers tell us about the first people who settled here. They show how towns like Bethlehem and Nazareth began.
- Bethlehem: This city was founded by the Moravians. They were a religious group. Markers show where their first homes and churches were built.
- First House of Moravian Settlement: A plaque marks the spot of the very first house built by the Moravians in Bethlehem. It was put up in 1929.
- Gemein Haus: This was a large building where the early Moravian community lived and worked together. It was a central part of their settlement.
- Moravian Community: This marker highlights how the Moravians lived. They had a unique community life.
- Nazareth: This town also has markers about its early days. It was another important Moravian settlement.
- Whitefield House: This house in Nazareth was part of the early settlement. It was used for education and religious activities.
Revolutionary War Heroes and Events
The American Revolution was a very important time. Northampton County played a role in it.
- David Martin's Ferry: This marker tells about a ferry used during the war. It helped move soldiers and supplies.
- First Reformed Church: This church in Easton was used during the Revolution. It was a place for meetings and other activities.
- Lafayette: Marquis de Lafayette was a French hero. He helped America win the war. A marker in Bethlehem honors him.
- Lafayette College Founding: This marker in Easton celebrates the start of Lafayette College. It was named after the famous French general.
- Old Chapel: This chapel in Bethlehem was used during the Revolution. It served as a hospital for soldiers.
- Pulaski's Banner: This marker in Bethlehem tells the story of a special banner. It was made by Moravian women for Count Casimir Pulaski, another hero of the Revolution.
- Sisters' House: This building in Bethlehem was home to single Moravian women. It also played a part in the Revolution.
- Sullivan Campaign: This marker talks about a military campaign. General Sullivan led troops through the area during the war.
- Sullivan's March: Another marker about General Sullivan's army. They marched through Northampton County.
Important Industries
Northampton County was a center for many industries. These industries helped Pennsylvania grow.
- Charles M. Schwab: He was a very important person in the steel industry. A marker in Bethlehem honors his contributions.
- Edwin L. Drake: He was a pioneer in the oil industry. A marker in Bethlehem recognizes his work.
- Eugene Gifford Grace: Another key figure in the steel industry. He worked with Charles M. Schwab.
- Henry Noll: He was involved in the iron and steel industry. His marker is in Bethlehem.
- John Fritz: An inventor and engineer. He made big improvements in the iron and steel industry.
- Lehigh Canal: This canal was very important for moving coal and iron. A marker in Easton tells its story.
- Old Waterworks: This was an early water system in Bethlehem. It was a big step in providing clean water.
- Portland Cement: Several markers talk about the cement industry. This industry was very important in the region.
- Robert H. Sayre: He was involved in the railroad and iron industries. He helped build Bethlehem.
- Slate Industry: This marker in Bangor tells about the slate industry. Slate was used for roofs and blackboards.
Native American Heritage
Many markers remind us of the Native American people. They lived here long before the European settlers.
- David Brainerd: He was a missionary who worked with Native Americans. A marker near Easton tells about him.
- Edward Marshall: He was a runner in the "Walking Purchase." This was a controversial land deal.
- Famous Indian Walk (The): This plaque marks part of the route of the Walking Purchase.
- Hockendauqua: A plaque here mentions a Native American village.
- Indian Peace Councils: Markers in Easton tell about meetings between settlers and Native Americans. These meetings aimed for peace.
- Moses Tunda Tatamy: He was a Native American leader. A marker in Tatamy honors him.
- Walking Purchase: Several markers explain this land deal. It greatly impacted Native American lands.
Famous People of Northampton County
Northampton County has been home to many talented people.
- Catherine Drinker Bowen: She was a famous writer. A marker in Bethlehem honors her.
- Christian Frederick Martin: He founded the famous C.F. Martin & Company. They make guitars. His marker is in Nazareth.
- David Tannenberg: He was a skilled organ builder. His marker is in Bethlehem.
- Dr. Florence Siebert: She was an important scientist and inventor. She worked on tuberculosis research. Her marker is in Easton.
- George Taylor: He was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. His marker is in Easton.
- George Wolf: He was a governor of Pennsylvania. He was known for his work in education.
- Hilda Doolittle (H.D.): She was a well-known poet. Her marker is in Bethlehem.
- John Frederick Wolle: He was a famous musician and conductor. He founded the Bethlehem Bach Choir.
- Samuel Phillippe: He was an inventor. He helped develop the modern baseball bat.
Images for kids
See also
- List of Pennsylvania state historical markers
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Northampton County, Pennsylvania