Central Pennsylvania is known for its rich history and strong ties to the founding of the United States. One of the most interesting aspects of this region is the city that was named after a famous American president and founding father. This city, located in the heart of Central Pennsylvania, is a testament to the influence and impact of our government in this area.
The Founding of Central Pennsylvania
Before we dive into the city named after a founding father, it's important to understand the history of Central Pennsylvania. This region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Susquehannocks and the Lenape.However, in the 1700s, European settlers began to arrive and establish towns and cities. One of these settlements was founded by William Penn, a Quaker and one of the most influential figures in American history. Penn was granted land by King Charles II in 1681, which he named Pennsylvania after his father. He envisioned this land as a place where people could live peacefully and practice their own religion without persecution. Central Pennsylvania was part of this land grant and quickly became an important hub for trade and commerce. The city that would later be named after a founding father was established in 1764 and quickly grew in size and importance.
The City Named After a Founding Father
The city that we are referring to is none other than Harrisburg, the capital of Pennsylvania.This city was named after John Harris Sr., an Englishman who settled in the area in 1719. Harris built a trading post along the Susquehanna River, which became a popular spot for travelers and traders. John Harris Sr.'s son, John Harris Jr., inherited the trading post and expanded it into a ferry and tavern. This tavern became a popular meeting place for politicians and government officials, as it was located along a major route between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. When Pennsylvania was looking for a new location for its capital in 1812, Harrisburg was chosen due to its central location and accessibility. The city continued to grow and develop, becoming an important center for government and commerce in Central Pennsylvania.
The Influence of Government in Central Pennsylvania
As the capital of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg has played a significant role in the government of the state. The city is home to the Pennsylvania State Capitol building, which was completed in 1906 and is considered one of the most beautiful capitol buildings in the United States. Aside from being the seat of government, Harrisburg is also home to many important government agencies and organizations.The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and the Pennsylvania Department of Education are all headquartered in Harrisburg. In addition to state government, Harrisburg also has a strong presence of federal government agencies. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the United States Postal Service (USPS) all have offices in the city.
The Legacy of John Harris Sr.
John Harris Sr.'s legacy lives on in the city that bears his name. His trading post may have been small, but it played a significant role in the development of Central Pennsylvania. Today, visitors can learn more about Harris and his family at the John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion, which is now a museum. But perhaps John Harris Sr.'s most lasting legacy is his role in naming the city that would become the capital of Pennsylvania.His contributions to the development of Harrisburg and Central Pennsylvania cannot be overlooked.
