By Pennsylvania House of Representatives Archives
Groundhog Day is a popular cultural event in Pennsylvania that happens every February 2nd. If the groundhog sees its shadow that means six more weeks of winter. If there is no shadow that means an early spring.
History of Groundhog Day
Groundhog Day, originally known as Candlemas Day, has roots in Europe as it’s the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. Germans used a hedgehog to determine the status of an upcoming spring. A groundhog was used later.
The Start of Punxsutawney Phil
In 1886, the Punxsutawney newspapers printed about the upcoming event. This is when people started to make the annual trek to Gobbler’s Knob to see whether there would be six more weeks of winter or an early spring. Punxsutawney Phil soon became an iconic figure in Pennsylvania!
A speech given on the House floor by Rep. Sam Smith on the 100th anniversary of Groundhog Day.
A poem that was read before Punxsutawney Phil predicted the weather.
Other towns soon adopted their own “groundhog” and started their own traditions each year. Other famous groundhogs are Octoraro Orphie (Lancaster), Mount Joy Minnie (Lancaster), Dover Doug (York), and Poor Richard (York).
Pictured: Representatives with Phil
A memorabilia program from Groundhog Day highlighting celebrations from 1886 to 1992.
Rep. Sam Smith with locals at the Punxsutawney celebration.
An early photo of a celebration of Groundhog Day on the House Floor.
Representatives Paul Costa and Michael Diven posing for a picture with Phil.
Representative Sam Smith was well known for his “Spicy Groundhog Cookies” he handed to Members and staff every February. Here is his list of how many dozen he made every year.
Groundhog Day is a Pennsylvania tradition, and the House is no exception! The House has embraced it's famous mammal for annual celebrations!
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