With the commemoration of America’s 250th birthday just days away, we asked our newsletter readers: If you could take an out-of-state visitor to just one Pennsylvania landmark during America’s 250th birthday celebration, where would you go?
Here’s what they had to say:
Answers have been edited for length and clarity:
“Perry Monument in Presque Isle State Park. A beautiful setting commemorating Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s naval victory over the British in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812.”
—Steve, Erie
“I would take them to the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train in Ashland, Schuylkill County. This place has a special meaning for me because my father and grandfather helped to start it. It shows what the miners in our state had to go through to make a living.”
—Shelly, Lansdale
“I’d take them to the Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia. It’s where so many people and countries were inspired to fight for freedom and equality for all people. Now more than ever our freedoms and civil rights are being challenged by the powers that be and by complacency. We need to be reminded that freedom isn’t free nor is it easy!”
—Libby G., Avondale
“I would choose Valley Forge. This was the low point in the struggle for independence and it’s a good place to emphasize the fortitude that eventually gave us the independence we enjoy today. The fact that we are now experiencing a situation where our system of government is being assaulted makes this a good time to reflect on the courage and steadfastness that preserved us when hope was in short supply.”
—John Boddie, Willow Street
“The highest point in Pa., Mount Davis.”
—Bruce, Dingmans Ferry
“I would take them to the Flight 93 National Memorial to commemorate where the people on 9/11 took control of the airplane so it didn’t crash in Washington D.C.”
—Sherry Snyder, Western Pa.
“I would take them to Gettysburg. Show them the battlefields and the museum there, highlighting what our country went through during the Civil War.”
—Laura Ludovici, Hamburg, Berks County
“Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia highlights the immigrant experience and contributions that have made this country great. We each brought our food and our music and our hard work ethic. That’s what made the community strong.”
—Sandy, Souderton
“Independence Hall. There’s no place that illustrates the story of the founding of our country as well as it does, plus the US National Park Rangers are excellent tour guides. Be sure to sign up for timed tickets; the system works well, but it often sells out, and if you don’t have a ticket, you’re out of luck!”
—Patricia Biswanger, Media
“I would take them to Gettysburg, there is so much history there.”
—Stewart, Suburban Philadelphia
“The Flight 93 Memorial in Shanksville. Emphasizes the humanity and heroism of which Americans are capable. It is truly sacred ground.”
—Paul Devine, Blue Bell
“Independence Hall in Philly. That’s where it all started, right?”
—Robert W., Lebanon County
“Lancaster Central Market. It’s the oldest farmers market in America, and you can get amazing fresh meats, produce, and baked goods there.”
—Theresa Johns, Lancaster County
