Harrisburg history

The history of Harrisburg is a tale of a humble river crossing transforming into a significant political and transport centre. The city, which grew at the intersection of trade routes, played a notable role in the formation of Pennsylvania and the development of the American West.

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of European settlement on the site of modern Harrisburg began in 1718, when Welsh trader John Harris Sr. established a trading post and a ferry crossing over the Susquehanna River here. This place became known as Harris' Ferry and served as an important point for travellers and traders. Officially, the settlement was laid out in 1785 and was initially named Louisburg in honour of the French King Louis XVI, however, this name did not take root. By 1791, having received the status of a borough, it was renamed Harrisburg in honour of its founder.

Key Factors of Development

Several key factors contributed to the rapid growth of the city:

• Geographical Location: Its location on the banks of the navigable Susquehanna River made Harrisburg a natural centre for trade and a departure point for settlers moving west.
• Transport Hub: The city's importance increased manifold with the opening of the Pennsylvania Canal in 1834 and the construction of railways starting in 1836. This turned Harrisburg into a crucial logistics hub connecting the northeast of the country with the Midwest.
• Political Status: In 1812, Harrisburg was chosen as the capital of the state of Pennsylvania, which definitively secured its administrative and political significance.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the 19th century, Harrisburg was a thriving centre attracting immigrants from Germany, Ireland, and Scotland. Its economy was closely linked to transport, trade, and later, the development of the metallurgical industry. The city also became an arena for important political events: national conventions that shaped the country's economic policy were held here. During the American Civil War, Harrisburg, as a strategically important transport hub, was one of the targets of the Confederate army.

Chronology of Harrisburg's History

From a trading post to the state capital — here are the key milestones that shaped the appearance of modern Harrisburg.

• 1718 — Welsh trader John Harris Sr. establishes a trading post and ferry crossing known as "Harris' Ferry" on the banks of the Susquehanna River.
• 1785 — The founder's son, John Harris Jr., officially lays out the town, which initially receives the name Louisburg.
• 1791 — The settlement receives borough status and is finally renamed Harrisburg in honour of its founder.
• 1812 — Harrisburg becomes the capital of the state of Pennsylvania, giving a powerful impetus to its development.
• 1822 — Construction of the first State Capitol building is completed.
• 1834 — The opening of the Pennsylvania Canal turns the city into an important transport hub.
• 1836 — The first train arrives in Harrisburg, marking the beginning of the railway era in the region.
• 1860 — Harrisburg receives city status.
• 1863 — During the American Civil War, Confederate troops approach the city, but their advance is halted just a few miles away from it.
• 1897 — The original Capitol building is destroyed by fire.
• 1906 — The new, modern Pennsylvania State Capitol building is solemnly opened, which remains one of the city's main attractions today.
• 1972 — The city suffers serious damage from flooding caused by Hurricane Agnes.
• 1979 — An accident occurs at the nearby Three Mile Island nuclear power plant, attracting the attention of the entire country.

Stages of Harrisburg's Development

The history of Harrisburg is a journey from a small settlement on the river to an important administrative and industrial centre. The key stages of this journey shaped the modern look of the city.

• State Capital (1812): Being granted the status of the capital of Pennsylvania was a decisive event. This attracted government institutions to the city, contributed to population growth, and served as an impetus for the construction of iconic buildings, including the Capitol.
• Era of Canals and Railways (1830s): The opening of the Pennsylvania Canal and the arrival of the railway turned Harrisburg into a key transport hub. This promoted the rapid development of trade and industry, linking the city with major markets.
• Industrialisation (Mid-19th — Early 20th Century): The city became a major centre for the steel and metallurgical industries. Factories such as the Pennsylvania Steel Company defined Harrisburg's economy for decades to come, attracting a workforce and shaping its industrial character.
• "City Beautiful" Movement (Early 1900s): In response to problems caused by rapid industrialisation, a large-scale urban improvement programme was launched in Harrisburg. It included the creation of parks, paving of streets, and modernisation of the Susquehanna River embankment, which radically improved the quality of life and the aesthetic appearance of the city.
• Challenges of the 20th Century (1970s): Two events had a huge impact on the city. The devastating flood from Hurricane Agnes in 1972 led to the need for large-scale restoration. The accident at the Three Mile Island NPP in 1979 attracted nationwide attention to the region and influenced public consciousness.
• Period of Renewal (Late 20th — Early 21st Century): After the economic downturn associated with deindustrialisation, programmes for revitalisation began in the city. Efforts were directed towards the reconstruction of the city centre, attracting new business, and developing cultural facilities, which started a new stage in Harrisburg's development.

The architectural appearance of Harrisburg reflects its rich history as a transport, industrial, and administrative centre. Urban development, which passed through several key eras, has left behind a diverse heritage, from humble structures of the colonial period to monumental structures of the early 20th century.

Early Period and Victorian Era

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Harrisburg's architecture was predominantly utilitarian, which corresponded to its status as a growing trading settlement. With the onset of industrialisation and the growth of prosperity in the 19th century, buildings in the Victorian styles popular at that time began to appear in the city. In historic districts such as Shipoke and Midtown, numerous examples of residential houses in Italianate, Queen Anne, and Second Empire styles are still preserved, characterised by intricate details, bay windows, and decorative brickwork.

The "City Beautiful" Movement and American Renaissance

A key moment in Harrisburg's urban development was the "City Beautiful" movement in the early 20th century. This nationwide initiative, aimed at improving cities, found particularly fertile ground in Harrisburg. The result was not only the creation of parks and the paving of streets but also the erection of iconic buildings that defined the face of the capital.

• Pennsylvania State Capitol: The undisputed architectural dominant of the city is the Capitol building, solemnly opened in 1906. Designed by architect Joseph Huston in the American Beaux-Arts style with elements of the Italian Renaissance, it is considered one of the most beautiful capitols in the USA. Its majestic dome, inspired by St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, and luxurious interiors with a marble staircase, murals, and stained glass windows became the embodiment of the ideas of the "City Beautiful" movement.

20th Century and Modernity

In the mid-20th century, the city, like many others in the USA, experienced a period of urban renewal, which led to the demolition of some historic buildings for the construction of new office complexes and transport interchanges. However, in recent decades, increasing attention has been paid to the preservation of historical heritage. Programmes for the revitalisation of the city centre and historic districts are aimed at restoring ancient buildings and adapting them to modern needs, which allows preserving the unique architectural fabric of Harrisburg for future generations.

Notable Figures Associated with Harrisburg

Throughout its history, Harrisburg has been the birthplace or place of activity for many personalities who left a mark on politics, art, sports, and public life. Here are some of them:

• John Harris Sr. — Founder. A Welsh trader who established a trading post and ferry crossing over the Susquehanna River here in 1719. Although the city was laid out by his son, it was the activity of Harris Sr. that marked the beginning of European settlement at this location.
• John Harris Jr. — Founder of the city. In 1785, he developed a plan for the city on his father's lands and officially laid out the settlement, which was later named in his honour. His home, the John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion, is one of the important historical landmarks of the city.
• Simon Cameron — Politician, Senator. An influential political figure of the 19th century who served as Secretary of War in Abraham Lincoln's administration during the Civil War. His home in Harrisburg (formerly the John Harris Mansion) is today a National Historic Landmark.
• Newt Gingrich — Politician. Born in Harrisburg in 1943, he became a prominent figure in the Republican Party and served as Speaker of the US House of Representatives from 1995 to 1999.
• William Howard Day — Public figure, abolitionist. An influential African American leader, orator, and activist of the 19th century. As the General Secretary of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church in Harrisburg, he fought for civil rights and the abolition of slavery.
• Mira Lloyd Dock — Reformer, activist. One of the key figures of the "City Beautiful" movement in Harrisburg in the early 20th century. Thanks to her efforts, the city was significantly improved: parks, an embankment, and an improved water supply system appeared.
• LeSean McCoy — Athlete. One of the most famous American football players, born and raised in Harrisburg. During his career in the NFL, he set numerous records and became one of the leading running backs of his generation.
• Bobby Troup — Musician, actor. Born in Harrisburg, he became famous as the author of the legendary song "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66". He was also known as a jazz pianist and actor who starred in the popular TV series "Emergency!".