St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church
W of Cowansville off PA 268, Sugarcreek Township, Cowansville, PA Local significance of the building: Exploration/settlement; Religion
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1978.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Pennsylvania was the second state to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 12, 1787.
About Armstrong County
Armstrong County Timeline
Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, is located in the western part of the state and has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. The region was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Delaware and Shawnee, who lived off the land and utilized the Allegheny River for transportation and trade.
In the mid-1700s, European settlers began to arrive in the area, with the earliest recorded settlement being established in 1753. The county was named after General John Armstrong, who served during the American Revolutionary War. Throughout the 19th century, Armstrong County experienced significant growth, particularly in the coal and iron industries. The discovery of coal in the region led to the establishment of thriving mining towns and the growth of the railroad industry, which played a crucial role in transporting goods and people.
During the Civil War, Armstrong County contributed many soldiers to the Union Army and was an important supplier of iron and coal to support the war effort. The county also played a role in the Underground Railroad, with several abolitionists assisting runaway slaves seeking freedom. Following the war, industrialization continued to shape the county's economy, with new industries such as glass manufacturing and lumber mills emerging.
In the 20th century, Armstrong County faced challenges with the decline of the coal and steel industries. However, the county has adapted and diversified its economy, focusing on industries such as healthcare, education, and agriculture. Today, Armstrong County is a mix of urban and rural areas, offering its residents a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Its rich history and strong sense of community continue to be cherished by its residents, making Armstrong County a unique and vibrant place to call home.
In the mid-1700s, European settlers began to arrive in the area, with the earliest recorded settlement being established in 1753. The county was named after General John Armstrong, who served during the American Revolutionary War. Throughout the 19th century, Armstrong County experienced significant growth, particularly in the coal and iron industries. The discovery of coal in the region led to the establishment of thriving mining towns and the growth of the railroad industry, which played a crucial role in transporting goods and people.
During the Civil War, Armstrong County contributed many soldiers to the Union Army and was an important supplier of iron and coal to support the war effort. The county also played a role in the Underground Railroad, with several abolitionists assisting runaway slaves seeking freedom. Following the war, industrialization continued to shape the county's economy, with new industries such as glass manufacturing and lumber mills emerging.
In the 20th century, Armstrong County faced challenges with the decline of the coal and steel industries. However, the county has adapted and diversified its economy, focusing on industries such as healthcare, education, and agriculture. Today, Armstrong County is a mix of urban and rural areas, offering its residents a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Its rich history and strong sense of community continue to be cherished by its residents, making Armstrong County a unique and vibrant place to call home.
Armstrong County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania.
- 1700s - Native American tribes, including the Iroquois, inhabited the area that is now Armstrong County.
- Late 1700s - European settlers, mostly of Scottish and Irish descent, began to establish homesteads in the region.
- 1800 - The area was part of Allegheny County until Armstrong County was officially formed on March 12, 1800.
- 1846 - The Pennsylvania Canal, which passed through Armstrong County, was completed, boosting trade and transportation in the region.
- 1855 - The discovery of coal in the county led to an economic boom, with numerous mines opening and attracting many workers.
- Mid-1800s - The Pennsylvania Railroad was constructed, further facilitating transportation and industrial growth in Armstrong County.
- 1860s - Armstrong County supported the Union during the American Civil War, with many residents serving in the military.
- 1920s-1930s - Prohibition led to the rise of illegal activities such as moonshining and bootlegging in Armstrong County.
- Mid-1900s - The decline of the coal mining industry resulted in economic challenges for Armstrong County.
- 1980s-present - Efforts to revitalize the county's economy have focused on diversification and the development of tourism and recreational activities.