The geography of Pennsylvania is multifaceted, and the physical distinctions among the commonwealth's diverse regions have helped shape the state's history. That state of Pennsylvania is an epic story of settlement and independence, science and industrial advancement and big cities and picture perfect villages. "The Keystone State" is a place of modern adventures, natural beauty and continuous rebirth that has inspired visit and residents for centuries.
Origin of State's Name: Harrisburg is the capital of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a state located in the Northeastern and Middle Atlantic regions of the United States. The city had a population of 48,950, making it the ninth largest city in Pennsylvania.
Capital City: Situated in the center of the state, Harrisburg has a wonderful small-town feel, despite being Pennsylvania's capital city. Harrisburg's relaxed, old-fashioned background and vibrant downtown district offering an abundance of museums, performing arts venues and restaurants make it easy to see why Forbes recently ranked Harrisburg the second best place in the country to raise a family.
Population: Pennsylvania has a population of approximately 12.5 million.
Driving: Driver's license information, applications, testing requirements, driver's manuals and testing locations can be found on the
Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website.
Agriculture and Industry: Major agriculture includes dairy products, poultry, cattle, nursery stock, mushrooms, hogs and hay; Food processing, chemical products, machinery, electric equipment and tourism are the state's leading industries.
State Bird: The ruffed grouse was designated the official state bird of Pennsylvania in 1931.
State Tree: The hemlock was designated official state tree of Pennsylvania in 1931. Eastern hemlock trees were used by early settlers to build log cabins and as a source of tannic acid.
State Flower: Mountain laurel was designated as Pennsylvania's official state flower in 1933. Mountain laurel is an evergreen shrub native to the eastern U.S.
State Song: Written by Eddie Khoury and Ronnie Bonner, "Pennsylvania" is the official state song.