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Exploring the Railroads to Oil Fields

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The Lumber Heritage Region of Pennsylvania offers a captivating journey through the industries that flourished thanks to the state’s rich lumber resources. From the first railroads to the bustling oil fields, this trail reveals how Pennsylvania’s lumber built America. Here’s a look at some of the key stops along the Lumber Heritage Trail.

Stop #1: Allegheny Portage Railroad

The Allegheny Portage Railroad was the first to navigate the challenging terrain of the Allegheny Mountains. Opened in 1834, it completed the Pennsylvania Mainline Canal, creating a direct route between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. This historic railroad served merchants, passengers, escaped slaves, and soldiers during the Mexican War. Visitors today can explore the historic site and learn about the engineering marvels that made this feat possible, including the inclined planes that lifted canal boats over the mountains. The Visitor Center offers exhibits and guided tours, providing a deep dive into this pivotal transportation link.

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Discovering Lumber Hertitage Through History and Education

Stop #2: Mount Assisi Gardens

Mount Assisi Gardens offers a serene experience with its Stations of the Cross under wisteria arbors, sunken gardens, and sacred shrines. Home to the Franciscan Friars, the gardens are open to the public from sunrise to sunset, providing a peaceful retreat for reflection and prayer. The beautifully landscaped gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the shrines offer a spiritual experience that connects visitors with the divine. The tranquility of the place makes it an ideal spot for meditation and finding inner peace amidst nature.

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Discovering Lumber Hertitage Through History and Education

Stop #3: Prince Gallitzin State Park

Prince Gallitzin State Park is a haven for nature lovers. The forested hills and the expansive Glendale Lake, with 26 miles of shoreline, attract anglers, boaters, and campers. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of wildlife and serve as a rest stop for migrating birds in spring and fall. Visitors can enjoy hiking on the numerous trails, picnicking at scenic spots, and engaging in winter sports during the colder months. The park also offers educational programs and events that highlight the natural and cultural history of the area.

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Discovering Lumber Hertitage Through History and Education

Stop #4: Depot at Doolittles

Train enthusiasts will love the Depot at Doolittles, where you can dine in restored rail cars, explore a model train museum, and enjoy a microbrew in the brewery car. The restaurant features a 1950s diner and a fine dining experience in a 1913 parlor car, offering a unique culinary journey through history. The museum’s extensive collection of railroad memorabilia and photographs provides a fascinating glimpse into the golden age of rail travel. Visitors can also participate in special events and themed dinners that recreate the ambiance of historic train journeys.

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Discovering Lumber Hertitage Through History and Education

Stop #5: Parker Dam State Park

Nestled in the heart of Moshannon State Forest, Parker Dam State Park is almost entirely wooded, featuring beautiful swamp meadows and mixed hardwoods. The park offers a scenic lake, rustic cabins, and quaint campgrounds, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing vacation. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching, while the park’s trails offer excellent opportunities for hiking and cross-country skiing. The CCC Museum at the park tells the story of the Civilian Conservation Corps and their significant contributions to the development of Pennsylvania’s state parks.

Stop #6: Elk County Historical Society & Robinson Museum

The Elk County Historical Society, founded in 1964, operates several historical sites in Ridgway, PA. Visitors can explore the Victorian-era Center House, the Robinson Museum with its exhibits and genealogy research room, and Decker’s Chapel, once considered the smallest church in the USA. The society’s collections include artifacts, documents, and photographs that chronicle the rich history of Elk County. Special events and programs are held throughout the year, providing educational opportunities and engaging the community in preserving their heritage.

Stop #7: Allegheny National Forest Ranger Station

The Marienville Ranger Station is one of three visitor centers for the Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania’s only National Forest. Established in 1923, the forest spans 517,000 acres across four counties and offers stunning views of the Appalachian foothills. Visitors can obtain information about hiking trails, camping sites, and recreational activities within the forest. The ranger station also hosts educational programs and guided tours that highlight the ecological and cultural significance of the forest.

 

Stop #8: Kinzua Bridge State Park

Home to the Kinzua Viaduct, once the longest and tallest railroad bridge, Kinzua Bridge State Park offers a unique experience. Visitors can walk 600 feet out on the remaining support towers, look down through the partial glass platform, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Kinzua Gorge. The park’s visitor center features exhibits on the history of the viaduct and its reconstruction as a pedestrian walkway. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and events that celebrate the engineering marvel and its historical significance.

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Discovering Lumber Hertitage Through History and Education

Stop #9: Penn-Brad Oil Museum

The Penn Brad Oil Museum preserves the history of the world’s first billion-dollar oil field. The museum showcases the boom times of the Bradford Oil Field and honors the people and families who contributed to its development. Exhibits include drilling equipment, historical documents, and photographs that illustrate the evolution of the oil industry. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs that provide insights into the technological advancements and economic impact of the oil boom.

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Discovering Lumber Hertitage Through History and Education

Exploring these stops along the Lumber Heritage Trail offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical industries that shaped Pennsylvania and the nation. Each location provides a unique perspective on the region’s rich heritage and its pivotal role in American history.

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