Celebrate Pennsylvania Day

July 20th is National Pennsylvania Day! Here in Brookville, we’re turning up the excitement to celebrate everything that makes Pennsylvania and our town truly one of a kind. From bold inventions and rich history to local flavors you won’t find anywhere else, this is the day to show your Keystone State pride—Brookville style!

Made In PA

Did you know Pennsylvania is the birthplace of some iconic things you probably didn’t expect? Like…

- The pencil with an eraser — yep, that handy combo came from Philadelphia, PA. (1858)
- The banana split — Latrobe’s sweet gift to the world (your sweet tooth will thank you). (1904)
- The Big Mac — dreamed up right here in Uniontown. (1967)
- Little League Baseball — started in Williamsport, because PA plays hard. (1938)
- PeepsPeeps — hatched in Bethlehem and still stirring strong opinions. Love them or leave them, those sugary marshmallow chicks are pure PA. (1953)
- The Ferris Wheel — The first Ferris wheel wowed crowds in Chicago was built in Pittsburgh. (1893)
- Crayola Crayons — bringing color to classrooms and creativity, straight from Easton. (1902)
- Yuengling — America’s oldest brewery, still brewing strong from Pottsville. (1829)
- And the very first computer — built in Philadelphia, showing PA’s tech smarts long ago. (1943)
- The Twyford Roadster, first four-wheel drive automobile, was built right here in Brookville! Learn more about it at the Jefferson County History Center Museum. (1904)

Quirky PA Town Names Worth a Smile

Around Pennsylvania, you’ll find plenty of towns with names that spark curiosity—or a chuckle. Here are some favorites that celebrate the humor, history, and unique character of this special part of Pennsylvania:

- Panic (Jefferson County): Named during an economic recession in the 1800s when local leaders couldn’t agree on a name—so they went with “Panic” and the legend stuck.
- Desire (Jefferson County): Little is known, but one story says the name came from a “yearning” to settle somewhere new—simple and poetic.
- Paradise (Jefferson County): With no clear naming origin, but everybody agrees—it’s a picturesque, photogenic spot that lives up to its name.
- Tidioute (Warren County): Pronounced “tid‑dee‑OOT,” this Native American–named borough means either “protrusion of land” or “log trap place”—perfectly describing its Allegheny River bend location.
- Daguscahonda (Elk County): Translating to “True Water,” this Native American name marks a village beside Elk Creek—and yes, folklore even tells of a four‑legged chick hatchling in 1885.
- Lover (Westmoreland County): A tiny village where romance is in the name. Though its origin is unclear, Lover is now a favorite for Valentine’s Day postcards and photo ops.
- Normalville (Fayette County): A peaceful Appalachian town with a name that’s anything but flashy—yet the charm, views, and small-town life are far from average.
- Overshot (Clarion County): With a name that sounds like a mistake, Overshot is a quiet rural community that hits the mark for off-the-grid beauty.
- Noodle Doosie (McKean County): The name alone is worth the visit. A blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spot, but unforgettable for its quirky, one-of-a-kind moniker.
- Jersey Shore (Lycoming County): No ocean here! This inland town got its name from early settlers who came from New Jersey and set up along the “shore” of the West Branch Susquehanna River. Confusing? Maybe. Charming? Definitely.

But beyond the famous inventions and quirky town names, Pennsylvania is packed with unique experiences and places you can’t find anywhere else. Take the stunning PA Wilds surrounding Brookville — with hiking trails, sparkling creeks, and cozy cabins just minutes from downtown. It’s a wilderness that most people only dream about.

And speaking of things you won’t find everywhere: fries on a steak salad. Yes, we proudly claim this delicious combo here, and honestly, the rest of the world is missing out.

Welcome to Pennsylvania — Let Freedom Ring

Across the state, new Pennsylvania welcome signs and new license plates are popping up, proudly showcasing the Keystone symbol that means so much to us. It’s a great reminder that when you’re in Brookville, you’re part of a state that honors its heritage with style.

Our historic downtown is full of stories—from the charming brick buildings to the fascinating Scripture Rocks Heritage Park, where history is literally etched in stone.

And don’t forget our popular Brookville BBQ Bash — August 23, 2025 — the perfect spot to enjoy great food, live music, and community spirit. Delicious BBQ, cold beverages, and yes, Pittsburgh-style sandwiches that’ll have you coming back for more (because some things are just better that way). BrookvilleBBQ.com

How to Celebrate National Pennsylvania Day in Brookville

Want to show your PA pride? It’s easy:

- Shop local—support one of our unique Brookville businesses.
- Take a stroll downtown and soak in the history and charm.
- Treat yourself to a Pennsylvania-made snack—peanut butter meltaways or pierogies, anyone?
- Hit the Redbank Valley Trail—perfect for a walk, run, or bike ride with beautiful views and peaceful surroundings.
- Snap a photo at a favorite attraction or historic spot.

This is more than just a day on the calendar—it’s a celebration of community, history, and the unique spirit that makes Brookville and Pennsylvania truly special.