Pennsylvania, Population and Religion (Hayward)

Population. — From the date of the first enumeration of the inhabitants, 150 years ago, when the colony contained but 20,000 souls, the population of Pennsylvania has continued to "increase and multiply," in steady and regular progression. At the present time its population numbers over 2,300,000. It is composed of the best possible materials for the formation and preservation of a free state. Industry, frugality, order, and patriotism are among the distinguishing traits of the people. Their enterprise and foresight have been remarkably exemplified in their magnificent system of public works, in their extensive agricultural and mechanical operations, and in their flourishing literary institutions. The establishment and support of all these important interests have been marked by unsurpassed earnestness and munificence….

Religion. — The Friends or Quakers, successors of the first settlers, are probably more numerous in Pennsylvania than in any other state, having some 150 to 200 congregations. The Presbyterians, however, outnumber all the other denominations ; then follow in order the Methodists, Baptists, German Reformed, and Episcopalians, all of whom are numerous. There is also the usual variety of minor sects.