Huntingdon County is located in the central part of Pennsylvania and has a rich history that dates back centuries. Here are 7 interesting facts about Huntingdon County in Pennsylvania history.
1. Huntingdon County was established in 1787 and was named after Selina Hastings, Countess of Huntingdon in England.
2. One of the famous residents of Huntingdon County was Robertsdale resident William "Billy" Cox, who fought in the Civil War, and his statue can be found outside of the county courthouse.
3. Huntingdon County was home to an early American industrialist, Albert Gallatin, who was instrumental in establishing the country's banking system and served as Secretary of the Treasury under Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison.
4. The Pennsylvania Railroad played a significant role in the growth and industrialization of Huntingdon County. After the track was laid through Huntingdon County in the early 1800s, the county became a major hub for transportation and commerce.
5. Huntingdon County was once home to Pennsylvania's only state hospital for the mentally ill. The facility, known as the "Huntingdon State Hospital," was in operation from 1890 until its closure in 1985.
6. The Juniata River, which runs through Huntingdon County, has a long and storied history. It was once used as a major thoroughfare for Native Americans, and later as a vital transportation route for settlers and traders.
7. Huntingdon County has multiple sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Alexandria Historic District, Fort Roberdeau, and the Mifflin House, which was a stop on the Underground Railroad.
In conclusion, Huntingdon County is a fascinating and historically significant area of Pennsylvania, with a rich and diverse past that is worth exploring. Whether you're interested in early American history, industrialization, or the role of transportation in shaping modern society, Huntingdon County has something to offer everyone.
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