What is the capital of Pennsylvania, named for trader John Harris Sr.?

Harrisburg is the capital of Pennsylvania, named for trader John Harris Sr.

John Harris Sr. operated a ferry and trading post on the Susquehanna River during the early eighteenth century. The settlement that grew around his property became known as Harris’s Ferry and later Harrisburg.

Pennsylvania moved its capital from Lancaster to Harrisburg in 1812. The location on the Susquehanna River was considered more central for the expanding state and provided an important transportation connection.

Harrisburg is often confused with Philadelphia, Pennsylvania’s largest city and former capital. Philadelphia served as the state capital until 1799, while Harrisburg has been the permanent capital since the nineteenth century. The Pennsylvania State Capitol was dedicated in 1906.