HistoricSiteMarkers
Early Republic

Selma

Norristown, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania

Marker Inscription

Home of Andrew Porter, Revolutionary general. Birthplace of his sons; David R., Gov. of Penna., 1839-45; James M., Sec. of War, 1843; George B., Gov. of Michigan Territory, 1831-34.

Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

The Story

Selma was the home of Andrew Porter, a general of the Revolution, but it is best remembered as the birthplace of his remarkable sons. David R. Porter became governor of Pennsylvania from 1839 to 1845; James M. Porter served as U.S. Secretary of War in 1843; and George B. Porter was governor of Michigan Territory from 1831 to 1834. From one Montgomery County household came a striking concentration of public service in the early republic.

Why it matters

Selma is a reminder of how a single Revolutionary-era family could shape the governance of the growing nation, from Pennsylvania to the western frontier.

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Related people

  • · Andrew Porter
  • · David R. Porter
  • · James M. Porter
  • · George B. Porter

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