Pennsylvania is proud to play a leading role in America’s 250th anniversary, and we invite you to join the celebration right here in the Susquehanna River Valley. Communities across the Commonwealth are coming together to honor our nation’s history, celebrate our shared values and inspire future generations.
From special events and exhibits to family-friendly activities and community gatherings, America250PA offers something for everyone. It’s more than a celebration. It’s a chance to reflect on our past, embrace our present and imagine the future we will create together.
Join us as we mark this historic milestone and showcase the people, places and stories that make Pennsylvania, and America, so special.
What is America250PA?
The Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial (America250PA) was established by the legislature and Governor in 2018 to plan, encourage, develop and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, Pennsylvania’s integral role in that event, and the impact of its people on the nation’s past, present and future.
America250PA is bringing Pennsylvanians together to honor our past, celebrate our present, and inspire the future. As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, we’re highlighting Pennsylvania’s pivotal role in shaping America and the people who continue to define it today. Through programs that engage all 67 counties, we aim to connect communities with their history, spark meaningful conversations, and inspire the next generation of leaders. By recognizing the struggles and triumphs that shaped our Commonwealth, we’re ensuring that Pennsylvania’s story continues to be written—by all of us, for all of us.
While Northumberland County covers a lot of ground today, several hundred years ago it was so expansive that six counties were formed out of it, according to Northumberland County Historical Society’s Librarian John Lindermuth.
Dotted with scenic farmscapes and historic downtowns, Union County was established in March 1813 from a portion of Northumberland County. The name “Union” was intentional – it was a clear nod to the federal Union of the United States.
May 10, 2025
Dale-Engle-Walker House
1471 Strawbridge Road
Lewisburg, PA 17837
Photo Credit: Mike Molesevich
Liberty Bells | Bells Across PA
As the nation prepares for the United States Semiquincentennial, America250PA is marking the moment with Bells Across PA—a larger-than-life public art experience that turns the state into something you don’t just visit, but explore.
Inspired by Pennsylvania’s role in the nation’s founding—and home to the iconic Liberty Bell—these oversized fiberglass bells have been reimagined by artists from across the Commonwealth, with support from local businesses and community partners. The result is a bold, statewide collection that reflects the creativity and character of the places they call home.
Bells Across PA consists of more than 120 bells that form an art trail stretching across every county in Pennsylvania—an open invitation to take the scenic route and see where curiosity leads.
On December 22, 2025, the North Shore Railroad unveiled NSHR No. 2238: a hand-painted tribute to America's 250th anniversary. Crafted by Sunbury artist Pedro Reyes, this one-of-a-kind locomotive travels the rails of Central Pennsylvania as a moving canvas of patriotic art.
The locomotive features iconic American imagery painted on both sides, including George Washington's crossing of the Delaware River, the Liberty Bell, the Declaration of Independence, the Statue of Liberty and a waving American flag. Unique details include stacks styled as Paul Revere's lantern and a cloud of black gunpowder, symbolizing the battles of the Revolution. The cab roof bears the full Liberty Bell inscription: "Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all inhabitants thereof."
The number 2238 holds special significance: the Mayham Tower (a turning point in the Southern theater of the Revolutionary War) was captured on the 2,238th day of the conflict.
Learn more and view the full gallery at nshr.com/2238.
The Susquehanna River Valley features a variety of lively downtowns, each defined by its own character and historical significance. Together, they form a collection of communities worth exploring and celebrating. Learn more.
Events
The Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau is proud to be a nonprofit affiliate for America250PA.
