Do you live in Pennsylvania? Or are you thinking about moving to Pennsylvania? If so, there are some things that you should know about this great state!
In this blog post, we will discuss five fun and interesting facts about Pennsylvania. After reading this post, you’ll be an expert on all things PA!
Pennsylvania was Once Home to the Steagles
If you’re a football fan, you’re probably familiar with the two Pennsylvania-based teams —the Philadelphia Eagles and the Pittsburgh Steelers.
What you probably didn’t know is that for a single season in 1943, the two teams merged to form the Steagles. At the time, many of the players and coaches joined the military to serve overseas, so neither team had enough players to play.
They solved this little issue by joining forces and forming the Steagles. Unfortunately (or fortunately?) The Steagles weren’t around for longer than a single season.
Medical Marijuana is Legal
You might not know it, but if you suffer from certain medical conditions, you can legally purchase and use marijuana in the state of Pennsylvania. The state first legalized medical marijuana back in 2016, and since then, the program has been steadily expanding.
As of today, the number of dispensaries is growing, and patients with a wide range of conditions are eligible for treatment. So, if you’re looking for an alternative to traditional medicine, Pennsylvania might be the place for you.
To learn more about where to find the best dispensaries near you in Pennsylvania, make sure to visit this page on Veriheal. Just be sure to check with your doctor first to see if medical marijuana is right for you.
Hershey Chocolate Comes from Pennsylvania
The next time you enjoy a delicious Hershey chocolate bar, take a moment to think about the state of Pennsylvania. You might not know it, but this sweet treat actually hails from the Keystone State.
In 1894, Milton S. Hershey founded his eponymous chocolate company in Derry Township, Pennsylvania. Hershey quickly became a leader in the chocolate industry, and today the Hershey Company is one of the largest producers of chocolate in the world.
So next time you need a pick-me-up, reach for a Pennsylvania-made Hershey bar and enjoy a little taste of history.
The First Drive-in Gas Station is Located in Pittsburgh
You might not know this, but the first drive-in gas station was actually located in Pennsylvania. It was built in 1913 by a man named John Shields Page and it quickly became a popular spot for motorists.
Visitors to the gas station could park their cars and then use a hand-operated pump to fill up their tanks. The drive-in gas station was a convenient way for people to get their cars refueled, and it soon became a popular roadside attraction.
Today, there is a sign serving as a historical marker to the site of the first drive-in gas station. It’s located at the intersection of Baum Boulevard and St. Clair Street in the East Liberty neighborhood of Pittsburgh. So next time you’re driving through Pennsylvania, be sure to stop by and check it out!
Pennsylvania is One of Four Commonwealth States
Most people know that Pennsylvania is a state in the northeastern United States. However, fewer people are aware that it is actually one of only four states in the country with the official designation of “commonwealth.” The other three states are Kentucky, Massachusetts, and Virginia.
So what exactly does it mean to be a commonwealth state? When these states were drafting their constitutions, they wanted to place emphasis on the power of the people, so they described themselves as a “commonwealth.”
Today, it simply refers to a state in which the government is based on the common consent of the people. So next time you’re bragging about your home state, be sure to let your friends know that Pennsylvania is one of only four commonwealth states in the country!
Conclusion
Pennsylvania is a state with a rich history and a lot to offer. From its role in the chocolate industry to its place in American automotive history, there’s no shortage of interesting facts about Pennsylvania. So next time you find yourself in the Keystone State, be sure to take some time to explore all it has to offer!
