Pennsylvania Historical Marker Program

Public Programs > Pennsylvania Historical Marker Program > Calendar of Dedication Events

Calendar of Dedication Events

Photo Courtesy of NFL Films - Cara R. Angelucci

Since 1946, Pennsylvanians have gathered to unveil, dedicate, and celebrate the installation of new historical markers. Virtually all of these ceremonies are public events, and you're invited to attend those held near where you live or whose subject matter interests you.

Visit this page often, as new events will be listed as soon as they are confirmed. Information is subject to change. Please E-mail kgalle@pa.gov or phone (717) 705-4266 for information on the Historical Marker Program.

Pennsylvania Historical Marker Dedication Information

Wednesday
May 1
10:00 AM

Patrick C. Boyle

An early oil scout, Boyle was a pioneering oil industry journalist, editor, and publisher, creating the petroleum industry’s most influential trade publications, The Derrick and The Oil & Gas Journal. His writings are critical to the knowledge of oil industry history, and the journal is still a relevant publication in the gas and oil industries.

Center St. (opposite 2 Center St.), Oil City

Local Sponsor: Oil Region Alliance

Wednesday
May 15
2:00 PM

Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia

The oldest natural science research institution in the nation, it played a leading role in biological research in North America and around the world. Its collection includes specimens of Lewis & Clark, fossils excavated by Thos. Jefferson, and bird skins used by John James Audubon. It produced an early peer-reviewed journal, the follow-up of which is still published today.

300 Market St., Philadelphia

Local Sponsor: Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

Postponed

Old St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church

Established in1763, it was a very early American Roman Catholic Church and PA's first Catholic Cathedral. The Continental Congress attended services here several times in respect for the alliances with the Catholic countries of France and Spain. It was also the site of the first public religious commemoration of the Declaration of Independence in 1779.

250-252 S 4th St., Philadelphia

Local Sponsor: Archdiocese of Philadelphia

Saturday
June 1
10:00 AM

The Williamson Free School of Mechanical Trades

Due to a decline in apprenticeship training programs in the US in the late 19th century, Isaiah V. Williamson, a successful dry goods merchant, established this institution to provide a free education to young men in trades including carpentry, masonry, horticulture, and painting. With its beautiful campus of Frank Furness buildings, it continues as the only trade college in the US providing full scholarships to students, and does not accept federal financial aid.

On campus, at Rt. 352, between North and Main Drs., Middletown Twp.

Local Sponsor: Williamson School

Saturday
June 1
11:00 AM

Pennepack Baptist Church

The first permanent Baptist Church in PA and the "mother" church of the American Baptist Association. Founded in 1688, the existing building dates to 1805, constructed on a 1707 foundation. The church spawned subsequent churches in NY, DE, and MD. In colonial America, Baptist influence emanated from Philadelphia.

8732 Krewstown Rd., Philadelphia

Local Sponsor: Pennepack Baptist Historical Fndtn.

Sunday
June 23
3:00 PM

Black Boys Rebellion

This 1765 conflict occurred between British troops from Fort Loudon and a group of white settlers. "The Black Boys," opposed renewed trade relations with the Indians due to recent attacks on their homes, and lashed out by attacking British supply shipments. The incident is considered by many to be the first armed resistance to British rule.

Ft. Loudon site, Ft. Loudon

Local Sponsor: Franklin county Chapter, D.A.R.