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Pennsylvania was home to the first commercially drilled oil well in the world, which was drilled in 1859 near Titusville.
About Centre County
Centre County Timeline
Centre County, Pennsylvania, located in the central part of the state, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Susquehannocks and the Iroquois Confederacy. European settlers arrived in the late 18th century and established towns like Bellefonte and State College.
The county was officially established in 1800 and was named Centre because of its location at the geographic center of Pennsylvania. In the 19th century, Centre County played a significant role in the development of the state. It became a hub for the lumber industry, with vast forests providing timber for construction and fuel. The county also had an important iron industry, with numerous iron furnaces in operation.
The arrival of the Pennsylvania Railroad in the mid-19th century brought significant changes to the county. It facilitated transportation of goods and people, giving a boost to the local economy. With the establishment of the Farmers' High School in 1855, which later became Penn State University, education became a vital part of the county's identity.
In the 20th century, Centre County continued to grow and evolve. State College, the county seat, developed as a vibrant college town centered around Penn State University. The university became a major driver of economic growth and cultural development in the region. Today, Centre County is known for its diverse economy, natural beauty, and thriving community.
The county was officially established in 1800 and was named Centre because of its location at the geographic center of Pennsylvania. In the 19th century, Centre County played a significant role in the development of the state. It became a hub for the lumber industry, with vast forests providing timber for construction and fuel. The county also had an important iron industry, with numerous iron furnaces in operation.
The arrival of the Pennsylvania Railroad in the mid-19th century brought significant changes to the county. It facilitated transportation of goods and people, giving a boost to the local economy. With the establishment of the Farmers' High School in 1855, which later became Penn State University, education became a vital part of the county's identity.
In the 20th century, Centre County continued to grow and evolve. State College, the county seat, developed as a vibrant college town centered around Penn State University. The university became a major driver of economic growth and cultural development in the region. Today, Centre County is known for its diverse economy, natural beauty, and thriving community.
Centre County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Centre County, Pennsylvania.
- 1800: Centre County is established and named after its geographical location, which is the center of Pennsylvania.
- 1804: Bellefonte becomes the county seat, replacing Milesburg.
- 1810: The Bald Eagle Iron Works, the first iron forge in Centre County, is established.
- 1834: The Pennsylvania Match Company, the first match manufacturer in the United States, is established in Bellefonte.
- 1855: The Bellefonte and Snow Shoe Railroad begins operations, connecting Bellefonte with the coal mines in Snow Shoe.
- 1861-1865: Centre County sees significant involvement in the American Civil War, with many residents serving in various capacities.
- 1885: The Pennsylvania State University is established in State College, becoming the county's largest employer and a leading educational institution.
- 1964: The Centre Daily Times, the county's largest newspaper, is founded.
- 1974: The Centre County Grange Encampment and Fair, commonly known as "Grange Fair," begins and becomes a popular annual event.
- 1996: Bellefonte becomes the first Pennsylvania town to be designated a "Victorian Christmas Town."
- 2011: Jerry Sandusky, a former assistant football coach at Penn State, is arrested and later convicted of child sexual abuse, bringing national attention to Centre County.