Academy Hill Historic District
Roughly bounded by Baughman St., N. Maple Ave., Kenneth St., Culbertson Ave., Beacon St., and Pennslyvania Ave., Greensburg, PA Local significance of the district:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1999.
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 home to the first all-volunteer firefighting company in America, which was established in Philadelphia in 1736.
The European settlement of Westmoreland County began in the mid-18th century, with the construction of Fort Duquesne by the French along the Ohio River. This act prompted the British to establish Fort Prince George in response, which served as a key military outpost during the French and Indian War. Following the end of the war, the British gained control of the territory and renamed it Westmoreland County in 1773.
The 19th century brought significant industrial and economic growth to Westmoreland County. Its location near rich deposits of coal and limestone made it an ideal location for the development of the steel industry. Companies such as Westmoreland Coal Company and Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company flourished, fueling the region's economic prosperity. The county also played a crucial role in the American Civil War, with many of its residents joining the Union Army to fight for the emancipation of slaves.
In the 20th century, Westmoreland County experienced both triumphs and challenges. The county witnessed increased urbanization and population growth, with cities like Greensburg and Latrobe becoming major hubs of commerce and industry. However, the decline of the steel industry in the late 20th century led to significant job loss and economic downturn. In recent years, efforts have been made to diversify the economy and attract new industries.
Today, Westmoreland County is a vibrant and thriving community that warmly embraces its history while looking towards the future. The county's rich heritage, natural beauty, and strong community spirit continue to attract residents and visitors alike.
Westmoreland County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.
- 1773: Westmoreland County is created by the Province of Pennsylvania
- 1778: Fort Ligonier is built during the American Revolutionary War
- 1782: The Gnadenhutten massacre occurs in present-day Westmoreland County
- 1793: The county seat is established in Greensburg
- 1835: The Pennsylvania Main Line Canal is completed, boosting the county's economy
- 1875: The Pittsburgh, Virginia and Charleston Railroad is completed, further stimulating economic growth
- 1905: Westmoreland County becomes the leading producer of coal in Pennsylvania
- 1927: The West Penn Hospital Association is founded in Greensburg
- 1957: The Arnold Palmer Regional Airport opens in Latrobe
- 1970: Westmoreland Community College is established
- 1992: The filming of the movie "The Silence of the Lambs" takes place in Westmoreland County