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Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Unveils Historical Marker in Philadelphia
March 12, 2026
As part of argument session in Philadelphia this week, the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania unveiled a new historical marker honoring the Court’s centuries-long role in shaping justice and the rule of law in the Commonwealth.
The marker is located near the corner of 2nd and Markets Streets in Philadelphia.
“The history of the Supreme Court is the history of justice itself -- the landmark decisions, the defining moments and the generations of jurists who shaped our laws and our lives,” said Chief Justice of Pennsylvania Debra Todd.
Established in 1722, with roots reaching back to 1684, the Pa Supreme Court is the oldest appellate court in the U.S. For over 300 years, it has upheld the rule of law, protected individual rights and strengthened the foundation of our democracy.
“A historical marker is an invitation for the public to connect with the foundation of our legal system and understand how deeply the courts are woven into the history of this Commonwealth,” said Justice Sallie Mundy. “When people understand that history, they understand why an independent and impartial judiciary matters.”
The marker was created in collaboration with the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Historical Commission and the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.
The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Historical Commission is dedicated to exploring and preserving the rich history of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, the oldest appellate court in North America. The Commission’s activities include increasing public awareness of the Court’s contributions to Pennsylvania’s unique legal and constitutional heritage; promoting scholarship regarding the Court’s history; presenting educational and civics programming for legal practitioners, scholars, historians, teachers, students and the general public; identifying and acquiring materials and artifacts of significance to the Court’s history; and maintaining the Court’s History Center.
More information about the Pennsylvania Courts is available on its website, Facebook,X and Instagram.
Stacey Witalec | Director of Communications
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