Cornwall, PA

Cornwall, Pennsylvania, is a small borough located in Lebanon County. The history of Cornwall dates back to the early 18th century when the land was first settled by the Native American tribes of the Lenni Lenape and Susquehannock. The area was rich in natural resources, including iron ore deposits.

In the mid-18th century, an iron industry began to develop in Cornwall. In 1742, Peter Grubb, an ironmaster from Delaware, established the Cornwall Iron Furnace. This furnace became a crucial center of iron production, producing many cannons and other materials during the Revolutionary War.

The furnace grew both in size and importance over the years, leading to a rise in population and the establishment of Cornwall as a company town. The Cornwall Iron Mines were also opened, extracting high-quality iron ore from the nearby hillsides. The iron industry in Cornwall continued to prosper well into the 19th century.

The town was originally named Cornwall Furnace but was later changed to Mount Hope. However, the name Cornwall was eventually restored. The growth of the iron industry brought significant industrial development to the area, including the construction of worker housing, shops, schools, and churches. Many of these historic structures still stand today, adding to the borough's historical charm.

Cornwall's iron industry reached its peak in the 19th century, supplying iron for numerous applications such as rails, steam engines, and military equipment. However, by the late 19th century, the demand for iron began to decline due to the emergence of steel as a dominant material. Cornwall's iron industry eventually closed down in 1883, leading to an economic decline in the area.

Despite the decline of the iron industry, Cornwall managed to survive by transforming itself into a commuter town as rail transportation improved. The borough became a desirable residential area for workers from nearby cities like Harrisburg and Lancaster.

Today, Cornwall preserves its historical legacy with the Cornwall Iron Furnace still standing as a state historic site. The furnace is a designated National Historic Landmark and is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its iron-making history. Cornwall is a charming community that showcases its industrial past while offering a peaceful and scenic environment for residents and visitors alike.

Cornwall Iron Furnace

A historical landmark and museum showcasing Cornwall's iron industry history.

Cornwall Community Park

A family-friendly park with walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

Cornwall House Antiques

A popular antiques shop offering a wide range of vintage items.

Boyd Big Tree Preserve Conservation Area

A nature preserve with hiking trails, bird-watching opportunities, and beautiful scenery.

Cornwall Manor

A retirement community with a variety of amenities, including a golf course, swimming pool, and dining options.

Mount Gretna Lake & Beach

A scenic lake with a sandy beach, offering swimming, boating, and picnic areas.

Iron Valley Tubing

A tubing park with snow tubing and tobogganing during the winter months.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

Enjoy a relaxing horse-drawn carriage ride through the picturesque countryside.

The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail

A popular trail for walking, jogging, and cycling, providing scenic views of the surrounding area.

Cornwall Square

A small shopping center with local businesses, restaurants, and cafes.

Cornwall, Pennsylvania experiences a climate that falls under the classification of humid continental. It is characterized by warm summers with high humidity levels, and cold winters with occasional snowfall. Here are some key details about the climate of Cornwall:

Summers

The summers in Cornwall are generally warm and humid. The average high temperatures range from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28°C) during the daytime, with occasional spikes into the 90s°F (32-35°C) during heatwaves. Humidity levels can be quite high, especially in July and August. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, bringing significant rainfall.

Winters

Cornwall experiences cold winters with temperatures dropping below freezing. The average high temperatures range from the 30s to the mid-40s°F (1-7°C). Snowfall is quite common, with an average annual snowfall of around 40 inches (102 cm) in Cornwall. Winter storms can occasionally bring heavy snow or freezing rain, which may impact transportation and daily activities.

Spring

Spring in Cornwall is characterized by mild temperatures and increasing rainfall. The average high temperatures range from the upper 40s to the mid-60s°F (8-18°C). April and May see the most significant increase in precipitation compared to the winter months.

Autumn

Autumn in Cornwall is generally mild and beautiful with pleasant temperatures. The average high temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s°F (13-23°C). The region experiences colorful foliage during the autumn season, attracting visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty.

Rainfall

Cornwall receives a fair amount of rainfall throughout the year, with an average of around 41 inches (104 cm) annually. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the seasons.

Overall, Cornwall, PA experiences a four-season climate with warm, humid summers, cold winters with snowfall, and mild spring and autumn seasons.

Cornwall is a small community located in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. It is known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and peaceful atmosphere. While Cornwall itself is a small town, it is surrounded by several noteworthy neighborhoods and areas. Here are some of the different neighborhoods and nearby places you can find in Cornwall, PA:

Cornwall Manor

Cornwall Manor is a vibrant retirement community located in the heart of Cornwall. It offers a range of housing options, including apartments, cottages, and traditional homes, along with amenities such as a wellness center, dining options, and various recreational activities. Cornwall Manor is known for its picturesque surroundings and community-oriented atmosphere.

Historic Cornwall

The historic district in Cornwall is a charming area where you can find beautifully preserved buildings, including the Cornwall Iron Furnace, which is a National Historic Landmark. The neighborhood features quaint streets, lovely gardens, and a rich history that is celebrated through several events and festivals throughout the year.

Mount Gretna

Just a short drive from Cornwall, Mount Gretna is a popular summer escape known for its peaceful atmosphere and outdoor recreational opportunities. It is famous for its charming cottages, which were initially built as a camp meeting retreat grounds in the late 1800s. Today, Mount Gretna hosts art festivals, live performances, and has numerous hiking trails, a lake, and a quaint downtown area.

North Cornwall Township

Located adjacent to Cornwall, North Cornwall Township is a residential area with a mix of housing options. The township features developed neighborhoods, schools, and commercial areas, offering residents convenient access to amenities such as shopping and dining.

South Lebanon Township

To the south of Cornwall, you'll find South Lebanon Township, a larger community with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It is home to schools, parks, sports facilities, and various businesses. South Lebanon Township offers a suburban setting with easy access to neighboring towns and cities.

Overall, Cornwall and its surrounding neighborhoods offer a range of experiences, from the quaint historic charm of Cornwall itself to the serene nature of Mount Gretna and the suburban convenience of North Cornwall Township and South Lebanon Township.