Why Pennsylvania is Called "the Keystone State."

There are several theories advanced as to the manner in which this appellation was received. The one most generally accepted, and the most dear to all who own Pennsylvania as their native State, is that Pennsylvania decided the great issue of American Independence.

At the meeting of the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, July 4, 1776, the vote adopting the Declaration of Independence was taken by States.

Of the thirteen original States, six had already voted in the affirmative, and six in the negative: when the delegation from Pennsylvania came in, John Morton cast the deciding vote in the affirmative.

Thus Pennsylvania, by her vote, decided the great issue, and was named the Keystone State.

Another reason advanced is, that in constructing a bridge between Pennsylvania Avenue and Georgetown, Washington, D.C., a single arch was erected of stones left from building the walls of the Capitol.

On the thirteen voussoirs, or arch-stones, the names of the thirteen States were engraved. Pennsylvania, falling in the keystone of the arch, became still more widely known as the Keystone State.