PA Historical Markers

Back

Explore Monroe County’s history, one marker at a time! The Historical Marker Collection brings together all 18 of the county’s iconic markers, each telling a story of community, heroes, milestones, and unforgettable moments. Use this collection to plan your visits, check off locations, and immerse yourself in the past.

Ready to get started? Sign up and join the Monroe County Historic Markers Trail Passport to track your visits and explore history like never before: https://monroe.brightrtravel.com/passports/historical-markers

Places

A. Mitchell Palmer

Located in Stroudsburg Borough, this marker recognizes A. Mitchell Palmer, U.S. Attorney General during the early 20th century, and an influential figure in national politics. Dedicated in 2007, it highlights his role during a time of major legal and social change. Stop by the courthouse entrance to learn more about this significant period in American history. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Archives.

Daniel Brodhead

Situated in East Stroudsburg Borough, this marker honors Daniel Brodhead, a prominent early settler and leader in the region’s development. Dedicated in 1947, it reflects the contributions of those who laid the foundation for Monroe County’s communities. Visit the site to explore the roots of local history. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

Dansbury Mission

Found in Stroudsburg Borough, this marker recalls the Dansbury Mission, an early religious outpost serving settlers in the mid-18th century. Dedicated in 1947, it offers a glimpse into the area’s early settlement and spiritual life. Make time to see this reminder of Monroe County’s earliest communities. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

Dutch Settlers

Located in Middle Smithfield Township, this marker recognizes the first Dutch families who established homes in the region during the 1700s. Dedicated in 2000, it highlights the cultural diversity that shaped Monroe County from its earliest days. Stop and learn more about these pioneering settlers. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

Fort Hamilton

Placed in Stroudsburg Borough, this marker recalls Fort Hamilton, a defensive structure built during the French and Indian War under the direction of Benjamin Franklin. Dedicated in 1967, it illustrates the challenges of life on the frontier. Visit the site to discover this important piece of colonial history. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Archives.

Fort Hyndshaw

Located in Middle Smithfield Township, this marker notes the site of Fort Hyndshaw, built in 1756 during the French and Indian War. Dedicated in 1947, it reminds visitors of the region’s strategic importance during times of conflict. Visit and step back into Monroe County’s frontier past. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

Fort Norris

Situated in Polk Township, this marker identifies the location of Fort Norris, a provincial fortification built in 1756 to protect settlers. Dedicated in 1947, it speaks to the dangers and challenges of early life in the Poconos. Stop by and experience a link to Pennsylvania’s colonial era. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

Fort Penn

Found in Stroudsburg Borough, this marker commemorates Fort Penn, which replaced Fort Hamilton and served as a key stronghold during the 18th century. Dedicated in 1967, it highlights the evolution of defense in the region. Take time to see this landmark of early American resilience. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

Jacob Stroud

Located in Stroudsburg Borough, this marker honors Jacob Stroud, founder of Stroudsburg and a Revolutionary War officer. Dedicated in 1991, it recognizes his influence in shaping the county seat. Visit to learn about the man whose name lives on in Monroe County’s heart. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

John Summerfield Staples

Located in Stroudsburg Borough, this marker honors John Summerfield Staples, known as President Lincoln’s “representative recruit” during the Civil War. Dedicated in 1954, it commemorates his unique role in national history. Stop by to learn more about this notable Monroe County figure. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

Marshalls Creek Explosion

Located in Middle Smithfield Township, this marker recalls the Marshalls Creek explosion that caused significant destruction and loss in 1964. Dedicated in 2005, it serves as a solemn reminder of the impact of industrial hazards. Stop by to learn more about this event in Monroe County’s history. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Assocation.

Marshalls Creek Mastodon

Located in Middle Smithfield Township, this marker commemorates the discovery of a mastodon skeleton that provided insight into Ice Age life. Dedicated in 2012, it marks one of the most notable paleontological finds in Monroe County. Stop by to reflect on the ancient history beneath our feet. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Archives.

Monroe County

Found in Stroudsburg Borough, this marker commemorates the creation of Monroe County in 1836 and its namesake, President James Monroe. Dedicated in 1947, it tells the story of how the county took shape. Visit to explore the origins of Monroe County as we know it today. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Archives.

Nicholas Depuy

Located in Smithfield Township, this marker honors Nicholas Depuy, an early settler who established a fortified homestead during the French and Indian War era. Dedicated in 1947, it recognizes his role in shaping the Shawnee-on-Delaware area. Stop by to learn more about the region’s colonial beginnings. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

Shawnee-Minisink Archaeological Site

Located near Shawnee-on-Delaware, this marker highlights the Shawnee-Minisink site, one of the most significant prehistoric archaeological locations in the region. Dedicated in 1998, it preserves evidence of Indigenous life that stretches back thousands of years. Stop by to connect with this ancient history. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

Smithfield Church

Located in Smithfield Township, this marker commemorates Smithfield Church, an early congregation central to the community’s spiritual life. Dedicated in 1950, it reflects the enduring role of faith in Monroe County’s history. Stop by to see this landmark of local heritage. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

Sullivan's March (Tannersville)

Located in Pocono Township, this marker also commemorates Sullivan’s 1779 expedition and its passage through this area. Dedicated in 1948, it further illustrates Monroe County’s strategic role in the Revolutionary War. Stop by to explore this historic route. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.

Sullivan's March (Sciota)

Located in Hamilton Township, this marker recalls General John Sullivan’s 1779 campaign during the Revolutionary War. Dedicated in 1948, it links Monroe County to a pivotal event in the nation’s fight for independence. Stop by to follow the path of American history. Photo courtesy of Monroe County Historical Association.