Muhlenberg House
Historical marker location:
201 W. Main Street, Trappe, Pennsylvania
( Marker is on Main Street/Ridge Pike (Old U.S. 422) 0.1 miles 3rd Avenue (Pennsylvania Route 113), on the right when traveling west.)
Marker installed: 1960
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The Pennsylvania State University, commonly known as Penn State, was established in 1855 and is one of the largest universities in the United States.
About Montgomery County
Montgomery County Timeline
Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1784. The county was named after General Richard Montgomery, an American Revolutionary War hero. Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Lenni Lenape.
During the colonial era, Montgomery County played a crucial role in the founding of the United States. Philadelphia, located within the county's borders, served as the temporary capital of the nation while Washington, D.C. was being constructed. Many notable historical events took place in the county, including the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitutional Convention of 1787.
In the 19th century, Montgomery County experienced significant industrial growth. The region became renowned for its iron production, thanks to the presence of abundant natural resources such as iron ore and limestone. Industries like textiles, papermaking, and weaving also flourished during this time.
As the 20th century dawned, Montgomery County continued to evolve. The county experienced suburbanization and saw increased population growth, fueled by improved transportation infrastructure and the expansion of Philadelphia's urban sprawl. Today, Montgomery County is a vibrant and diverse community with a strong economy, excellent educational institutions, and numerous cultural and recreational amenities.
Overall, Montgomery County's history reflects its important contributions to the nation's development, from its colonial roots to its industrial past and modern-day prominence.
During the colonial era, Montgomery County played a crucial role in the founding of the United States. Philadelphia, located within the county's borders, served as the temporary capital of the nation while Washington, D.C. was being constructed. Many notable historical events took place in the county, including the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitutional Convention of 1787.
In the 19th century, Montgomery County experienced significant industrial growth. The region became renowned for its iron production, thanks to the presence of abundant natural resources such as iron ore and limestone. Industries like textiles, papermaking, and weaving also flourished during this time.
As the 20th century dawned, Montgomery County continued to evolve. The county experienced suburbanization and saw increased population growth, fueled by improved transportation infrastructure and the expansion of Philadelphia's urban sprawl. Today, Montgomery County is a vibrant and diverse community with a strong economy, excellent educational institutions, and numerous cultural and recreational amenities.
Overall, Montgomery County's history reflects its important contributions to the nation's development, from its colonial roots to its industrial past and modern-day prominence.
Montgomery County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
- 1682: William Penn receives the charter for Pennsylvania, including present-day Montgomery County.
- 1683: The area that is now Montgomery County is settled by Welsh Quakers.
- 1784: Montgomery County is officially established as a county by the Pennsylvania General Assembly.
- 1791: The first courthouse is built in Norristown, which becomes the county seat.
- 1804: The Main Line of the Philadelphia and Columbia Railroad is completed, boosting the county's economy.
- 1832: Montgomery County Agricultural Society is founded to promote agricultural practices.
- 1851: The Pennsylvania Railroad opens a line through Norristown, further improving transportation in the county.
- 1879: Valley Forge becomes a national military park to commemorate the American Revolution.
- 1906: Bryn Mawr College is founded in Lower Merion Township, becoming one of the county's premier educational institutions.
- 1925: The Montgomery County Courthouse is rebuilt and expanded in Norristown.
- 1950s: The county experiences rapid suburbanization due to its proximity to Philadelphia.
- 1961: The Montgomery County Community College is founded in Blue Bell.
- 1989: The King of Prussia Mall opens, becoming one of the largest shopping malls in the United States.
- 2012: Montgomery County becomes the first county in Pennsylvania to allow same-sex marriage.