On March 14, the PA Historical and Museum Commission announced the approval of 18 new PA Historical Markers, the familiar blue-and-gold signs that commemorate people, events and locations in Pennsylvania's history.

Several related to Pennsylvania's environmental heritage include--

-- Marianna Mine Explosion, Marianna, Washington County: This tragic incident occurred in 1908 and is one of the worst mining disasters in U.S. history. It gained national attention, catalyzed public awareness, and along with other accidents in the early 20th century led to the establishment of the United States Bureau of Mines (USBM). Before it was dissolved in 1996, the USBM conducted research and disseminated information on the extraction, processing, use and conservation of mineral resources.

-- Fruit Research & Extension Center, Butler Township, Adams County: Established in 1918, the Penn State Fruit Research & Extension Center (FREC) conducted extensive research into diseases and pests attacking Pennsylvania fruit trees and developed treatments for them. FREC is credited with eradicating plum pox, substantially reducing losses due to pests, and increasing yields for more than a decade. It has affected fruit growers, distributors and consumers nationwide.

-- William J. Murtagh (1923–2018), Philadelphia: One of the nation’s leading preservationists, Murtagh was instrumental in the enactment of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and is considered a founding father in the field of historic preservation. He was also a leader at the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the first keeper of the National Register of Historic Places. He received numerous preservation awards and served on the boards of national and international preservation organizations.

Since 1946 PHMC’s historical markers have chronicled the people, places and events that have affected the lives of Pennsylvanians over the centuries. The signs feature subjects such as Native Americans and settlers, government and politics, athletes, entertainers, artists, struggles for freedom and equality, factories and businesses, and a multitude of noteworthy topics.

Nominations for historical markers may be submitted by any individual or organization and are evaluated by a panel of independent experts from throughout the state and approved by the agency’s commissioners.

More information, including application information, visit the PHMC’s Historical Marker Program website.

The Pennsylvania Conservation Heritage website is a great place to learn about environmental history in the Commonwealth.

Visit the Explore PA History website to search for more key people, events and places that make up Pennsylvania’s environmental heritage.

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[Posted: March 14, 2019]

3/18/2019