HARRISBURG, PA — As the nation approaches its 250th birthday, Pennsylvania is staking its claim as the birthplace and backbone of the American experiment.
The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission unveiled “Pennsylvania 250: The Keystone of American History,” a sweeping, year-long initiative designed to showcase the Commonwealth’s central role in the nation’s founding, growth, and democratic evolution. The statewide effort brings together major exhibitions, public programs, and landmark commemorations across Pennsylvania, all tied together by the themes of democracy, innovation, and resilience.
“With Pennsylvania 250, we are inviting people to rediscover where the American experiment began — and how Pennsylvanians helped shape it at every turning point,” PHMC Executive Director Andrea Lowery said. She said the programming highlights rare objects, pivotal moments, and diverse voices that together tell a fuller story of the nation’s past.
At the heart of the initiative is a major new exhibition at The State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg. “Revolutionary Things: Objects from the Collection” spans 3,000 square feet and features more than 140 artifacts covering three centuries of Pennsylvania and American history.
The exhibition is organized into three sections, beginning with “Witness Objects and Relics,” which includes rare Revolutionary War-era artifacts such as the 1st Continental Regiment Flag, also known as the Thompson Rifles or 1st Pennsylvania Regiment flag. A second section, “Commemorative Art,” examines how early Americans expressed national identity, highlighted by Charles Weisgerber’s 1893 painting Birth of Our Nation’s Flag. The final section, “Centennial and Bicentennial Reflections,” revisits Pennsylvania’s role as host of the nation’s 1876 Centennial and 1976 Bicentennial celebrations.
Running alongside it is “Illuminating Independence,” featuring 35 original hand-illuminated copies of the Declaration of Independence created in the 1920s by Harrisburg penman Sherman Notestine. Both exhibitions are on view on the first floor of The State Museum through August 2, 2026.
The celebration is not confined to museum galleries. PHMC plans to carry the “Keystone of American History” theme into communities across the Commonwealth through large-scale public events and programs.
At the 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show, the Pennsylvania Military Museum will debut “Patriots and Prisoners: The Pennsylvania Experience,” an immersive exhibit exploring the lives of prisoners of war, both Allied and Axis, through artifacts, uniforms, and interpretive displays that examine sacrifice, captivity, and freedom beyond the battlefield.
Historic sites managed by PHMC will also host signature events. Old Economy Village in Beaver County will explore craftsmanship as a civic tradition, culminating in a Civil War Weekend on May 2, 2026. The Erie Maritime Museum will mark the return of the U.S. Brig Niagara on July 2, 2026, kicking off a major July 4 celebration tied to Pennsylvania’s role in the War of 1812. Pennsbury Manor in Bucks County will host a “First Ladies of Pennsylvania” luncheon in fall 2026, examining the evolution of the role from Hannah Penn, who governed the colony in the 18th century, to the modern era.
PHMC officials said the effort is intended to position Pennsylvania as a national focal point for America’s 250th anniversary by connecting local communities, historic places, and shared democratic values.
Beyond the headline events, the commission plans year-long programming aimed at broad access. That includes a comprehensive virtual “PA History” lecture series, expanded social media content, specialized programs at historic sites and museums, and four new themed historical marker trails highlighting key stories in Pennsylvania history.
More information about Pennsylvania 250: The Keystone of American History and upcoming programs is available at phmc.pa.gov.
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