History lovers looking for a road trip can trace a new trail across the Keystone State to visit sites representing key moments in American history.
The Highway of Heroes trail links six destinations along the historic Lincoln Highway, or Route 30.
Stops include Independence National Historic Park in Philadelphia, Valley Forge National Historical Park, Gettysburg National Military Park, Eisenhower National Historic Site in Gettysburg, Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville and Fort Pitt Museum in Pittsburgh.
“As the nation commemorates its 250th anniversary, it is altogether fitting that the Fort Pitt Museum is a featured attraction on the Highway of Heroes trail,” said Alan Gutchess, the museum’s director.
The museum — part of the Senator John Heinz History Center’s family of museums — recently unveiled a new exhibition exploring Western Pennsylvania’s role in the Revolutionary War. The “Pittsburgh’s Revolution” exhibit uses images and artifacts — including a letter authored by founding father Patrick Henry and the original Westmoreland Battalion Flag — to highlight the role the region played in the founding of America.
The Highway of Heroes initiative launched Friday and continues for a year. Visitors who check in at all six sites will receive a commemorative set of challenge coins representing the participating locations.
A visit to the Lincoln Highway Experience museum in Latrobe can substitute for any one stop.
“Not only does a spot on the Highway of Heroes showcase Pittsburgh’s unique role in the expansion of our country, this project demonstrates the collaboration across our Commonwealth’s tourism industry to put together a unique and education experience for visitors,” said Jerad Bachar, president and CEO of Visit Pittsburgh, the city’s tourism agency.
The six sites represent pivotal moments in American history including the French and Indian War, the American Revolution, the Civil War, the Cold War and the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.