Crafton, PA

County: Allegheny

History

Crafton, Pennsylvania

Crafton, Pennsylvania is a small borough located in Allegheny County, southwestern Pennsylvania. It has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century.

Crafton was first settled in the early 1800s by Scottish immigrants who were attracted to the area's abundant natural resources such as timber, coal, and limestone. Initially, it was primarily an agricultural community known as "Crafton Farm" after one of the early settlers, John Craft, who owned a significant portion of the land.

In 1882, Crafton was incorporated as a borough and experienced significant growth due to its proximity to Pittsburgh and the expanding railroad industry. The Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Chicago, and St. Louis Railway (commonly known as the "Panhandle Route") ran through Crafton, attracting more residents and businesses to the area. The railroad line made Crafton a convenient commuter town for people working in Pittsburgh.

Crafton continued to develop throughout the early 20th century with the establishment of schools, churches, and various businesses. The construction of the Crafton Theatre in 1922 became a significant milestone for the community, offering entertainment and cultural opportunities for its residents.

During World War II, Crafton played a vital role in the war effort. Many of its residents served in the military, and the borough actively participated in bond drives and other wartime initiatives.

In the post-war era, Crafton saw further growth and suburbanization as people moved away from the city to quieter residential areas. The borough's convenient location, well-regarded schools, and friendly community attracted many families seeking a suburban lifestyle.

Today, Crafton remains a close-knit community with a population of approximately 5,800 residents. It has a mix of residential properties, small businesses, and public amenities such as parks and recreational facilities. The railroad that once played a significant role in the borough's development is still operational, although it now belongs to CSX Transportation.

Crafton's rich history and small-town charm continue to be appreciated by its residents. It has managed to maintain its sense of community while adapting to the changing times, making it a beloved place to call home in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area.

Attractions

Crafton Park

Crafton Park

Located along Crafton Boulevard, the park offers a variety of recreational facilities such as baseball fields, softball fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, picnic areas, and a playground.

The Crafton Pool

A community swimming pool that is open during the summer season, offering swimming and sunbathing opportunities for residents and visitors.

Crafton Public Library

A small and cozy library that offers a range of books, magazines, and media resources for community members to borrow.

Crafton Historical Society

Dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of Crafton, this society offers information about the town's past through exhibits, tours, and events.

Crafton Volunteer Fire Department

Visitors can learn about the town's firefighting history and equipment at the local fire station and may have the opportunity to observe demonstrations or participate in special events.

Nearby Pittsburgh attractions

Crafton is located just a few miles from downtown Pittsburgh, where visitors can explore numerous attractions such as the Carnegie Museums, Heinz Field (home of the Pittsburgh Steelers), PNC Park (home of the Pittsburgh Pirates), the Andy Warhol Museum, and the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.

Please note that the availability or opening hours of these attractions may vary, so it's recommended to check their official websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

Climate

Crafton, PA has a humid continental climate. Summers in Crafton are typically warm and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28 degrees Celsius). Thunderstorms are common during this season. Winters, on the other hand, are cold and snowy with temperatures averaging in the mid to upper 30s Fahrenheit (1-4 degrees Celsius). The region experiences significant snowfall, with an average of around 40 inches (102 cm) per year.

Spring and fall in Crafton are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. Spring sees increasing temperatures and occasional rain showers, while fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage as the leaves change color.

Overall, Crafton experiences all four distinct seasons with notable variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year.

Neighborhoods

Crafton is a borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. It has several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Crafton:

Crafton Heights

This neighborhood is located in the western part of Crafton and is the largest neighborhood in the borough. It is mainly residential, with a mix of both detached houses and apartment buildings. Crafton Heights is known for its quiet streets and a strong sense of community.

East Crafton

Situated on the eastern side of Crafton, this neighborhood offers a mix of residential and commercial areas. It is known for its more urban feel compared to other sections of Crafton. East Crafton has a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments.

Crafton Heights Apartments

As the name suggests, this neighborhood consists mainly of apartment complexes. It is located in the southern part of Crafton Heights, close to the Crafton-Ingram Shopping Center. Crafton Heights Apartments provide residents with convenient access to shopping, dining, and public transportation.

Steuben Street

Steuben Street is a small neighborhood located in the southwestern part of the borough. It is predominantly residential, with a mix of detached houses and row homes. Steuben Street has a diverse community and is often considered a quiet and family-friendly area.

Ingram

Though technically a separate borough, Ingram is often associated with Crafton due to their close proximity. Ingram is situated to the west of Crafton, across Chartiers Creek. It has its own unique identity, with a mix of residential and commercial areas. Ingram offers amenities such as parks, schools, and local businesses.

Overall, the neighborhoods of Crafton, PA, provide a range of housing options, community atmospheres, and access to amenities. Whether you prefer a more suburban or urban feel, Crafton has a neighborhood to suit diverse preferences.

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