PENNSYLVANIA — As the United States prepares to mark its 250th anniversary this year, the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) on January 2 unveiled “Pennsylvania 250: The Keystone of American History”, a statewide, year-long initiative showcasing Pennsylvania’s central role in the nation’s founding, growth and democratic evolution.

The initiative brings together exhibitions, public programs and major commemorations across PHMC museums and historic sites—from Harrisburg to Erie—under a unifying theme 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,” said Andrea Lowery, Executive Director of PHMC. “The Keystone State is not just a nickname; it reflects our foundational role in the nation’s history. This programming highlights rare objects, pivotal moments and diverse voices that together tell a fuller story of America.”

Anchor Exhibitions at The State Museum of Pennsylvania

At the center of the initiative is “Revolutionary Things: Objects from the Collection,” a newly opened, 3,000-square-foot exhibition at The State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg featuring more than 140 artifacts spanning three centuries of Pennsylvania and American history.

The exhibition is organized into three thematic sections:

• Witness Objects and Relics, including rare artifacts used during the American Revolution, such as the 1st Continental Regiment Flag (also known as the Thompson Rifles or 1st Pennsylvania Regiment flag).
• Commemorative Art, examining how early Americans expressed national identity, highlighted by Charles Weisgerber’s monumental 1893 painting, Birth of Our Nation’s Flag.
• Centennial and Bicentennial Reflections, revisiting Pennsylvania’s role as host of the 1876 Centennial and 1976 Bicentennial celebrations.

Running concurrently 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.

Bringing Pennsylvania 250 to Audiences Statewide

PHMC is extending the “Keystone of American History” theme well beyond museum walls through major public-facing events across the Commonwealth.

At the 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show, the Pennsylvania Military Museum will present Patriots and Prisoners: The Pennsylvania Experience, an immersive exhibit examining the lived experiences of prisoners of war—both Allied and Axis—through artifacts, uniforms and interpretation that move beyond battlefield narratives to explore sacrifice, captivity and freedom.

PHMC historic sites will also host signature events highlighting craft, celebration, and service:

• Old Economy Village (Ambridge) will explore craftsmanship as a civic tradition, culminating in a Civil War Weekend on May 2, 2026.
• Erie Maritime Museum will mark the return of the U.S. Brig Niagara on July 2, 2026, launching a major July 4th celebration and continued interpretation of Pennsylvania’s role in the War of 1812.
• Pennsbury Manor (Morrisville) will host a “First Ladies of Pennsylvania” luncheon in fall 2026, examining the evolution of the role from Hannah Penn—who effectively governed the colony in the 18th century—to the present day.

Together, these efforts position Pennsylvania as a national focal point for America’s 250th anniversary—connecting local communities, historic places and shared democratic values.

More information about Pennsylvania 250: The Keystone of American History and upcoming programs will be available at phmc.pa.gov.

History for All Pennsylvanians

The 2026 celebration extends far beyond these signature events. PHMC is committed to making history accessible throughout the entire year, meeting Pennsylvanians wherever they are. The commission will release a comprehensive virtual "PA History" lecture series providing an overview of state history, in addition to providing engaging content across social media platforms and specialized programs at the commission's historic sites and museums across the commonwealth. The State Historic Preservation office is also highlighting key stories in Pennsylvania history through four new themed historical marker trails.

The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission is the official history agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Learn more by visiting PHMC online or following us on Facebook, X, Instagram or LinkedIn.