1. Battle of Gettysburg: On July 3, 1863, the third and final day of the Battle of Gettysburg took place in Pennsylvania. This battle is considered one of the turning points of the American Civil War, as the Union forces were able to push back Confederate troops.

2. Freedom Day: July 3 is known as "Freedom Day" in Pennsylvania, as it was the day in 1775 when Pennsylvania abolished slavery. While the institution was not completely eradicated until the passage of the 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution in 1865, this was an important step towards ending slavery.

3. Hershey's Chocolate: The Hershey's Chocolate Company was founded by Milton S. Hershey on July 3, 1905. Today, the company is one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world, and the Hershey's chocolate bar is an iconic American treat.

4. Statehood Day: Pennsylvania was one of the original 13 colonies that signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. However, the state was not officially granted statehood until December 12, 1787. July 3 is still recognized as Statehood Day in Pennsylvania.

5. Johnstown Flood: On July 3, 1889, the South Fork Dam in Johnstown, Pennsylvania collapsed, causing a catastrophic flood that killed over 2,200 people. This disaster is considered one of the worst natural disasters in American history and prompted improvements to dam safety regulations.