Meadville in Crawford County, Pennsylvania — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)

Birthplace of the Direct Primary

Photographed By Mike Wintermantel, March 20, 2011

1. Birthplace of the Direct Primary Marker

Inscription. Here in Crawford County on Sept. 9, 1842, direct primary elections were born when county Democrats used this system to nominate candidates for the legislature and county offices. Republicans here began voting by this method in 1860. This "Crawford County System" gradually spread to other counties and to other states. By the early 20th century, it had become the nation's standard system for selecting party nominees for most offices.

Erected 2000 by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Government & Politics. In addition, it is included in the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission series list. A significant historical month for this entry is September 1812.

Location. 41° 38.326′ N, 80° 8.965′ W. Marker is in Meadville, Pennsylvania, in Crawford County. Marker is at the intersection of Main Street (Diamond Park) and East Center Street, on the right when traveling north on Main Street (Diamond Park). Main Street splits at Diamond Park in downtown, the sign will be on the right side, near the County Courthouse. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Meadville PA 16335, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Company "A" 211th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers (a few steps from this marker); Crawford County

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(within shouting distance of this marker); Dedicated to All Veterans… (within shouting distance of this marker); Erected May 12, 1888 (within shouting distance of this marker); War Veterans Memorial (within shouting distance of this marker); Bicentennial (within shouting distance of this marker); The Promenade de Fismes (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Raymond Philip Shafer (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Meadville.

Additional keywords. Birth-place of the Direct Primary Marker

Photographed By Mike Wintermantel, March 20, 2011

2. Birthplace of the Direct Primary Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on March 21, 2011, by Mike Wintermantel of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This page has been viewed 805 times since then and 34 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on March 21, 2011, by Mike Wintermantel of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.