Boalsburg, PA

Boalsburg, Pennsylvania is a small town located in Centre County. It is widely recognized as the birthplace of Memorial Day, making its history deeply intertwined with this significant holiday.

Boalsburg was founded in 1809 by a gentleman named Colonel Samuel Boal, who purchased a tract of land in the area. The town initially grew slowly, with a few houses and stores being established along what is now the main street of Boalsburg.

During the American Civil War, Boalsburg played a significant role as a rallying point for local troops. Company F of the 148th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, known as the "Boalsburg Guards," was formed in the town, and its members were mustered into service in September 1862.

The most notable event in Boalsburg's history occurred in October 1864 when a local woman, Emma Hunter, along with her friend Sophie Keller, decorated the graves of fallen soldiers in the town's cemetery. This act of remembrance is widely regarded as the first observance of Memorial Day. Since then, Boalsburg has been recognized as the birthplace of this holiday and has held an annual Memorial Day celebration as a result.

In the years following the war, Boalsburg continued to develop as a small agricultural community. It remained relatively isolated until the early 20th century when better transportation infrastructure led to increased connectivity with surrounding towns and cities.

Today, Boalsburg retains much of its historic charm and maintains a close-knit community feel. The town sees an influx of visitors every Memorial Day, who come to pay their respects and participate in the various festivities and parades held in honor of the holiday.

Boalsburg's rich history is still evident in its well-preserved buildings, including historic houses and commercial structures along Main Street. The Boal Mansion Museum, located on the outskirts of the town, offers a glimpse into the town's past, showcasing period furniture, artwork, and artifacts.

Overall, Boalsburg's unique history as the birthplace of Memorial Day has given it a special place in American culture, making it not only a significant part of local Pennsylvania history but also a symbol of remembrance for fallen soldiers nationwide.

Pennsylvania military museum

It is a museum dedicated to Pennsylvania's military history, featuring exhibits on various wars and conflicts.

Boal Mansion Museum

This historic mansion showcases the life and times of the Boal family and the early history of Boalsburg.

Columbus Chapel and Boal Mansion Museum

Located on the Boal Estate, this museum holds a collection of Christopher Columbus artifacts and offers guided tours.

The Pump House Grille

A popular restaurant and bar located near the Boal Mansion, known for its delicious food and outdoor seating.

Grange Fair

Held in Boalsburg every August, it is one of the largest agricultural fairs in Pennsylvania, featuring livestock exhibitions, food vendors, live music, and various activities.

Kayaking and canoeing in Spring Creek

Boalsburg is surrounded by beautiful natural areas where visitors can enjoy kayaking and canoeing adventures on Spring Creek.

Tussey Mountain

Located just a short drive from Boalsburg, Tussey Mountain offers skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and other winter activities, as well as hiking and outdoor concerts during the summer.

Rothrock State Forest

Boalsburg is located near the entrance to Rothrock State Forest, offering numerous hiking trails, beautiful vistas, and opportunities for camping and outdoor recreation.

Boalsburg Heritage Museum

Situated in the center of town, this museum showcases the history and heritage of Boalsburg and the surrounding area.

Farmers markets

Boalsburg is well-known for its farmers markets, where visitors can find locally grown produce, homemade crafts, and other unique items.

These are just a few of the attractions in Boalsburg, PA. The area also offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, shopping, dining, and exploring the beautiful countryside.

Boalsburg, Pennsylvania experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers in Boalsburg are warm and relatively humid with average high temperatures reaching the upper 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (25-28°C). Heatwaves can occur, pushing temperatures into the 90s°F (32-35°C) at times.

Fall in Boalsburg brings cooler temperatures, with average highs in the 60s°F (15-20°C) and lows dropping into the 40s°F (4-9°C). The autumn foliage in this region is renowned for its vibrant colors, making it a popular destination for leaf-peepers.

Winter in Boalsburg is cold and snowy. Average high temperatures range from the upper 30s to low 40s°F (3-7°C), while temperatures can drop into the 20s°F (-6 to -2°C) during the day and even colder at night. Heavy snowfall is common, with an average annual total of around 45 inches (114 cm).

Spring in Boalsburg brings milder temperatures and increasing precipitation. Average high temperatures gradually climb from the 50s°F (10-15°C) in March to the 60s°F (15-20°C) in April and May. Spring showers are frequent, contributing to the region's lush greenery.

It is important to note that these are general climate trends, and actual weather conditions can vary from year to year.

Boalsburg is a small town located in Centre County, Pennsylvania, within the State College Metropolitan Statistical Area. While there are no distinct neighborhoods in Boalsburg, the town does have several notable areas and developments. Here are some of the key neighborhoods in Boalsburg:

Downtown Boalsburg

The heart of the town is its downtown area. It is a charming and historic district with small shops, restaurants, and cafes. This is where most community events, festivals, and parades take place.

Historic District

Boalsburg is known for its rich history and is home to the Boal Mansion Museum and Columbus Chapel. The historic district includes many preserved and restored buildings, giving it a unique character.

Tussey View

Located north of downtown, Tussey View is a residential area with beautiful homes and apartments. It offers picturesque views of Tussey Mountain and is known for its quiet and peaceful surroundings.

Springfield Commons

Springfield Commons is a planned residential community on the outskirts of Boalsburg. It features contemporary homes, townhouses, and apartments, designed to provide a mix of residential and commercial spaces.

Bear Meadows

Bear Meadows is a rural neighborhood located to the east of Boalsburg. It is surrounded by vast forests, including Rothrock State Forest, and is a popular location for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Brynwood

Brynwood is a residential area located on the western side of Boalsburg. It is known for its spacious homes on large lots. The neighborhood is characterized by its tree-lined streets and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Willowbrook

Willowbrook is a newer development on the southern edge of Boalsburg. It offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. It provides convenient access to amenities, including shops, parks, and schools.

Overall, Boalsburg offers a variety of neighborhoods catering to different lifestyles, from downtown living to rural tranquility. The town's historical significance, natural beauty, and community-oriented spirit contribute to its desirability as a place to live.