1. The Battle of Fort Ligonier: On August 12, 1758, the French and Indian War was in full swing. The British-led by General Forbes-were approaching Fort Duquesne (present-day Pittsburgh), which was a strategic location for the French. The French attacked Forbes' supply train, but Forbes' soldiers were able to defeat them at the Battle of Fort Ligonier. This battle was a significant turning point in the war as it paved the way for the British to capture Fort Duquesne and gain control of the Ohio River Valley.
2. Inaugural Pittsburgh Steeler's Game: On August 12, 1933, the Pittsburgh Steelers played their first official NFL game. They played against the New York Giants, and although they lost 23-2, the game marked the beginning of one of the most iconic franchises in NFL history.
3. The Johnstown Flood: On August 12, 1889, one of the deadliest floods in American history occurred in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Heavy rainfall caused the South Fork Dam to fail, sending a wall of water rushing through the town. Over 2,200 people were killed, and the disaster is still considered one of the country's worst.
4. The 1972 Agnes Flood: On August 12, 1972, Hurricane Agnes hit Pennsylvania, causing severe flooding in many areas. The Susquehanna River rose to flood stage and caused extensive damage, with over 10,000 homes destroyed and 50,000 people evacuated. The disaster prompted the construction of a flood control system for the area.
5. Opening of Hersheypark: On August 12, 1907, Hersheypark-the amusement park located in Hershey, Pennsylvania-opened for its first day of operation. The park started as a way for Milton Hershey's employees to enjoy leisure time, and it has since grown into a major tourist attraction in the state, with over 3 million visitors annually.
5 Fun Facts About August 12 In Pennsylvania History
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