Historical Markers in
Lebanon County, Pennsylvania

40 & 8 Boxcar 95th Infantry Division Memorial Address by President Lincoln AH-1F Bell Blue Mountain Forts Caspar Wistar Clyde Grubb • Lester Baver Company G, 112th Infantry, and Service Troop, 104th Cavalry, War Memorial Cornwall Banks Cornwall Furnace Cornwall Furnace Cornwall Iron Furnace Courthouse Lampposts and Courthouse Bell EC-130E Commando Solo I EC-130E "Commando Solo" F-102 Jet Fighter Fallen Warrior Memorial - 2nd BCT Fort Swatara Fort Zeller Frank Smolik • Bob Pacios Grubb's First Forge Indiantown Indiantown Gap Military Reservation Jacob Albright James Lick John Walter Lebanon County Lindley Murray M1/IPM1 Abrams Tank M110 Howitzer M113A2 APC M2/M59 Howitzer M42 Duster M46 Patton Tank M4A3 Sherman Tank M578 LRV M60A3 Patton Tank M915A1 Line Haul Tractor Nike "Ajax" Missile Nike "Hercules" Missile OH-6A Cayuse Reed's Fort Saint Luke Lutheran Church Saint-Avold Tribute to 3rd American Army Sattazahn Lutheran Church Schaefferstown Water Company Swatara Gap The Pennsylvania Chatauqua Third Armored Division Transportation Corps Unit Training Center Tulpehocken Evangelical and Reformed Church UH-1 Iroquois Union Canal Union Canal Union Canal Union Canal Company of Pennsylvania Union Canal Tunnel Union Canal Tunnel Union Forge Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge
Pennsylvania was the second state to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 12, 1787.
Pennsylvania random facts
Lebanon County, Pennsylvania has a rich and diverse history that dates back to pre-colonial times. Before European settlement, the region was home to Native American tribes such as the Susquehannocks and the Lenape. The first European settlers arrived in the early 18th century, with Swiss and German immigrants being the predominant groups. In 1813, Lebanon County was officially established, named after the biblical city of Lebanon.

During the American Revolutionary War, Lebanon County played a significant role, contributing soldiers to fight against British rule. The county's location along the path of march between Philadelphia and the Susquehanna River made it a strategic location during the war. Following the war, Lebanon County experienced rapid development and growth, with industries such as iron furnaces, mills, and textile factories driving its economy.

In the 19th century, Lebanon County became known for its agricultural production, particularly in tobacco and wheat. By the mid-1800s, the Lebanon Valley Railroad was established, connecting the county to neighboring cities and greatly facilitating trade and transportation. This led to further industrial and economic development, as well as an influx of immigrants from various European countries.

During the 20th century, Lebanon County continued to thrive as an agricultural and industrial hub. However, like many other regions in the United States, the county faced economic challenges and population decline in the latter half of the century. Today, Lebanon County remains a vibrant community with a mix of rural and suburban areas, known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and strong sense of community pride.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Lebanon County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1736 - Lebanon County was settled by European colonists.
  • 1783 - Lebanon County was officially formed as a county in Pennsylvania.
  • 1805 - The Lebanon Valley Turnpike was completed, connecting the county to other regions.
  • 1863 - During the American Civil War, Lebanon County provided soldiers to the Union Army.
  • 1870 - Lebanon County experienced significant industrial growth, particularly in the iron and steel industries.
  • 1930s - The famous Indiantown Gap Military Reservation was established in the county.
  • 1979 - The TMI (Three Mile Island) nuclear accident occurred near Middletown, impacting the surrounding area.
  • 2000s - Lebanon County has continued to grow and diversify its economy, focusing on healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture.