Expect the unexpected as you travel on Route 22 in Dauphin, just eight miles from Harrisburg, or you may end up like other motorists have in the past. At the unexpected sight of the now-beloved statue, jutting up from the middle of the Susquehanna River, drivers used to slam on their brakes, wreaking havoc on the highway. Here’s the story of the little Statue of Liberty in Pennsylvania.

Turn the clock back to a simpler time. New York City, in the summer of 1986, was preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime Independence Day event that would celebrate the nation's birth and the 100th anniversary of Lady Liberty.
Flickr/Charles Smith
Inspired by the Statue of Liberty's upcoming anniversary, Harrisburg-area lawyer Gene Stlip decided to honor Lady Liberty right here in Pennsylvania.
Flickr/Ross M. Karchner
Shrouded in secret - a secret that would remain for a quarter of a century - Stlip gathered materials, including Venetian blinds and plywood. He borrowed his friend's basement where he began building a miniature Statue of Liberty.
Flickr/Anders Adermark
Along with several of his buddies and under the cover of darkness, Stlip headed to the remains of an old railroad bridge in the Susquehanna River. There the group placed what would become known as Dauphin Narrows Statue of Liberty.
Flickr/mjmst96

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Stunned drivers slammed on their brakes the next morning as they drove past the river, shocked at the sight of the miniature Statue of Liberty. Just about everyone questioned: Who created and put Lady Liberty in the river?
Flickr/mjmst96
Twenty-five years would pass, during which time the beloved statue would be destroyed in bad weather and rebuilt by the community, before the secret behind Dauphin Narrows Statue of Liberty came out.
Flickr/LandIn Hollis
The newer version of Lady Liberty, which debuted in the 1990s, stands 25 feet tall and is significantly heavier to ensure it endures the finicky Pennsylvania weather.
Flickr/mjmst96
View the Pennsylvania landmark as you pass along Route 22 (although the moment will be fleeting if you're in moving traffic) or head to nearby Second Mountain for a spectacular bird's eye view.
Flickr/Kurt Komoda
There's no doubt about it -- this is one of the most unique landmarks in Pennsylvania. What's do you think of this mini Lady Liberty?

Click play below for an aerial view of the Dauphin Narrows Statue of Liberty as shot by Robert Zinn and posted on YouTube.

Address:

Dauphin Narrows Statue of Liberty
US-22
Dauphin, PA 17018

Have you ever visited the Dauphin Narrows little Statue of Liberty in Pennsylvania? What are your favorite roadside attractions in Pennsylvania? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

If you liked the Dauphin Narrows Statue of Liberty, you might also enjoy these 10 roadside attractions in PA.

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little statue of liberty in Pennsylvania

Elisa Regulski | December 17, 2019

What are the best historic landmarks in Pennsylvania?

The Liberty Bell is one of the most iconic landmarks in Pennsylvania. This magnificent bell stands as a reminder of American independence, and it fills people with awe whenever they see it. Gettysburg National Military Park is one of the most interesting historic places in Pennsylvania. The Battle of Gettysburg was the bloodiest fight of the American Civil War, and was the inspiration for Abraham Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address. Everyone should visit this poignant landmark once in their lives.

What are the best roadside attractions in Pennsylvania?

The Haines Shoe House, located in York, is one of the most peculiar roadside attractions in Pennsylvania. Yes, this home looks just like a shoe, but it gets even better. There’s delicious ice cream inside! Stop by and tour this whimsical attraction -- you’ll be so glad you did. The Big Mac Museum, located in North Huntingdon, is another head-scratcher. This destination is home to one of the world’s largest Big Macs, and it has loads of McDonalds merchandise. Exploring these exhibits often works up an appetite, so be sure to get yourself a tasty Big Mac to munch on while you’re there.

Are there any historic hiking trails in Pennsylvania?

There are several historic hiking trails in Pennsylvania. One of the most interesting sits inside Fort Necessity National Battlefield. Here, you can walk along ancient roads and learn all about their unique story. Presque Isle State Park is also home to some historic hiking paths. When you explore this scenic area, you’ll come across the stunning Presque Isle Lighthouse. This 40-foot tall structure dates all the way back to 1873!

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Dauphin, PA 17018, USA