Historical Markers in
Washington County, Pennsylvania

25 Ton G.E. Diesel-Electric Locomotive 89 Bradford House California California Boatyards Captain Philo McGiffin Cement City Centerville Cincinnati Mine Disaster Citation: Claysville Colonel George Morgan Cross Creek Church David Reed Delvin G. Miller Doddridge's Fort Dr. Jonathan Letterman Edward Acheson Elisha McCurdy Fort Cox or Coxes Station Gamma Chapter of Beta Theta Pi Gantz Oil Well George Washington Globe Inn Hill’s Tavern Horseshoe Baptist Cemetery Independence Community Honor Roll Jackie Ormes James Chapel Methodist Church James G. Blaine Jay Livingston Jesse William Lazear John K. Tener John McMillan Joseph A.“Jock” Yablonski LeMoyne Crematory LeMoyne House Madonna of the Trail Marianna Mine Explosion McDonald Oil Field Meadowcroft Rockshelter Miller’s Blockhouse Mingo Creek Church Monongahela Monongahela Monongahela Mt. Hope United Presbyterian Church National Road One Extraordinary Street Rabe Manor Ralston Thresher Rebecca Harding Davis Rice’s Fort Richfol Shelter Site of Burgett Home and Fort Site of Old Lindley Fort and Stockade The 1948 Donora Smog The Abraham Tegarden Family The Fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta The Mounds The Reverend John McMillan, D.D. The Reverend Thaddeus Dodd The Whiskey Rebellion Veterans Memorial Veterans Memorial Washington Washington Washington Washington and Jefferson College Washington and Jefferson College Washington County Whiskey Point William Holmes McGuffey Wolff’s Fort "Declaration & Address" “S” Bridge
The first zoo in America was established in Philadelphia in 1874.
Pennsylvania random facts
Washington County, Pennsylvania has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1781. Located in the southwestern part of the state, it was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and the Delaware, before European settlers arrived.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Washington County played a significant role in the development of the region. The Battle of Jumonville Glen, a precursor to the French and Indian War, took place in present-day Fayette County, just south of Washington County. This conflict marked a pivotal moment in the struggle between the French and British for control over the Ohio River Valley.

With the onset of the American Industrial Revolution, Washington County became an important hub for coal mining, natural gas, and oil production in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The county's natural resources fueled economic growth and attracted immigrants seeking employment opportunities. Many European immigrants, particularly from Scotland and Eastern Europe, settled in Washington County during this time and contributed to the region's cultural diversity.

Washington County also played a significant role in the Whiskey Rebellion of 1791. The rebellion was a response to an excise tax imposed by the newly formed federal government on whiskey production. The area had a high concentration of distillers, and many farmers relied on whiskey as a form of currency. The rebellion was eventually suppressed by federal forces, but it highlighted the challenges faced by the young United States in enforcing federal laws in rural areas.

Today, Washington County continues to be an important center for energy production and agriculture. The region is also home to educational institutions like Washington & Jefferson College and scenic natural attractions such as the Ohiopyle State Park. With its rich history and diverse industries, Washington County remains a vibrant and dynamic part of Pennsylvania's heritage.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Washington County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1781 - Washington County is established on March 28, 1781, as one of the original three counties of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
  • 1791 - The Whiskey Rebellion, a violent protest against the federal excise tax on whiskey, occurs in Washington County.
  • 1802 - Construction begins on the National Road, which passes through Washington County, becoming an important transportation route.
  • 1861-1865 - During the American Civil War, Washington County actively participates, and many soldiers from the area fight in various battles.
  • 1901 - The coal mining industry becomes a significant economic driver in Washington County, leading to rapid growth and development.
  • 1928 - The Washington County Courthouse, an iconic neoclassical structure, is completed and becomes a recognized landmark.
  • 1954 - The construction of the Washington County Airport begins, providing improved air transport options for the region.
  • 1968 - Washington County Historical Society is founded to preserve and promote the history of the area.
  • 1997 - The Meadows Racetrack and Casino opens in Washington County, contributing to the local economy and entertainment scene.
  • 2011 - The Marcellus Shale natural gas industry boom brings significant economic changes to Washington County.