News
Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Unveils New History Center
News Article
November 28, 2023
Focused on preserving and celebrating the rich and distinguished history of the Court, the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania today cut the ribbon on its new history center at the Pennsylvania Judicial Center in Harrisburg.
The new center aims to provide an exclusive glimpse into the high Court’s legal legacy and will be offered as an additional tour location within the Capitol complex.
“Today is a momentous occasion to celebrate the Court and its history,” Chief Justice Todd said. “This new historical center will now become a space of inspiration and a place where future generations can gain a deeper understanding of the legal heritage and legacy of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.”
Visitors to the history center will have the opportunity to see original Supreme Court artifacts dating back to the 1600’s while learning more about the history, work and role of the Court.
“The history center is a monument to our unwavering commitment to preserving our past,” Justice Mundy said. “Within these walls the echoes of landmark decisions will reverberate, the wisdom of our esteemed justices will find new life, and the poignant struggles for justice will resonate for generations to come.”
“Through this new center, we will continue to collect, curate, and share the invaluable records, stories and artifacts that embody the history of our highest court. It will serve as a guardian of the past, an educator of the present and an inspiration for the future.”
The development of the history center was supported by the work of the Supreme Court Historical Commission. Members include:
Justice Sallie Updyke Mundy, Court Liaison to the Commission
Charles Becker, Esq
Christopher Collum
John Hare, Esq.
Dusty Elias Kirk, Esq.
John P. Krill, Esq.
Dale McClain, Esq. (Ex Officio)
Robert Mongeluzzi, Esq.
David S. Senoff, Esq.
Denise J. Smyler, Esq.
John Vaskov, Esq.
Consultant Historians
Joel Fishman Ph.D.
Mark Lloyd
Julie Randolph
As the highest Court in the commonwealth and the oldest appellate court in the nation, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court is the definitive authority in enforcing Pennsylvania’s Constitution and laws. The Court supervises the entire court system to ensure that Pennsylvanians’ rights are protected and enforced through efficient judicial administration of the cases brought before them.
More information about the history center and its artifacts can be found here https://www.pasupremecourthistory.org/. Additional information about the Supreme Court and the Unified Judicial System is available within the Court’s Civics Education Toolkit.
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