Ingram, PA
County: Allegheny
History
Ingram, Pennsylvania is a small borough located in Allegheny County. Its history is closely tied with the development and growth of the Pittsburgh region.
The area now known as Ingram was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Shawnee people. European settlers began to arrive in the late 18th century, primarily of German and Irish descent. These early settlers mostly engaged in farming and agriculture, with a few small mills and shops scattered throughout the area.
The borough's name, Ingram, originated in the early 19th century when Alexander Ingram, a Scottish immigrant, purchased a large tract of land in the area. He developed his land into a farming operation, which attracted more settlers and contributed to the growth of the community.
In the late 19th century, as Pittsburgh experienced rapid industrialization and urbanization, there was a surge in population throughout the area, including Ingram. Many residents found employment in the nearby steel mills, factories, and coal mines. The borough expanded to accommodate the growing population, with the construction of houses, schools, churches, and other community facilities.
Ingram officially became a borough in 1902, separating from the neighboring township of Crafton. It continued to experience steady growth throughout the early 20th century. The population reached its peak around the mid-20th century, as many families moved to the area seeking better job opportunities.
Like many communities in the region, Ingram faced challenges with deindustrialization and population decline in the latter half of the 20th century. The closure of steel mills and other industrial facilities resulted in job losses and significant changes to the local economy. However, the community remains resilient and has seen some revitalization efforts in recent years.
Today, Ingram is a suburban residential community with a diverse population. It is located just a few miles west of downtown Pittsburgh, providing easy access to the city's amenities and attractions. The borough maintains its small-town atmosphere, with several parks, community events, and locally owned businesses.
Ingram's history reflects the broader historical trends of the Pittsburgh area, from its early agricultural roots to its industrialization and the subsequent challenges posed by economic changes. Although the community has faced various ups and downs, it continues to adapt and evolve, striving to provide a quality living environment for its residents.
Attractions
Ingram, PA is a small borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. While it may not be known for its tourist attractions, it offers a few notable places to visit:
Ingram Park
This small neighborhood park offers a playground, picnic areas, and walking trails for recreation and relaxation.
Mooncrest Neighborhood Program
The Mooncrest Neighborhood Program works to revitalize the Mooncrest neighborhood in Ingram. They often organize community events, including block parties and festivals, which could be worth checking out.
Nearby shopping centers
Ingram is located near several shopping centers and malls, such as the Settlers Ridge and Robinson Town Centre, where visitors can find various retail outlets, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh
While not in Ingram, the Carnegie Museums in Pittsburgh are a short drive away and offer a range of cultural and educational experiences. The Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Carnegie Museum of Art, and Carnegie Science Center are particularly popular attractions.
Kennywood Amusement Park
Located in nearby West Mifflin, Kennywood is a historic amusement park with a variety of thrilling rides, classic attractions, and entertainment options.
Additionally, Ingram's proximity to Pittsburgh opens up a wide range of attractions and activities that the city has to offer, such as sports events, museums, theaters, art galleries, and more.
Climate
Ingram, PA has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers in Ingram are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the 70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (20s to high 20s Celsius). July tends to be the warmest month, and occasional heatwaves with temperatures exceeding 90°F (32°C) can occur.
Winters in Ingram are cold, with temperatures typically ranging from the 20s to the 30s Fahrenheit (-6°C to 0°C). January is usually the coldest month, and it is not uncommon for temperatures to drop below freezing, especially at night. Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average of around 30 inches (76 cm) per year.
Spring and autumn in Ingram are transition seasons, with mild temperatures. Spring brings gradual warming, with average temperatures increasing from the 40s to the 60s Fahrenheit (5°C to 20°C) throughout the season. Autumn sees temperatures gradually decreasing from the 60s to the 40s Fahrenheit (15°C to 5°C).
Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year in Ingram, with slightly higher amounts in the summer months. On average, the annual precipitation is around 37 inches (94 cm). Thunderstorms are common in the summer months, and occasional severe weather, including heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, can occur.
Overall, the climate of Ingram, PA offers a mix of warm summers, cold winters with snowfall, and moderate temperatures during the transitional seasons.
Neighborhoods
Ingram is a borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. While Ingram is a relatively small area, it consists of several distinct neighborhoods that each offer their own unique characteristics. Here are some of the neighborhoods you can find in Ingram:
Crafton Heights
Located in the northern part of Ingram, Crafton Heights is a residential neighborhood with a mix of housing options from single-family homes to apartments. It offers tree-lined streets and a suburban feel, often attracting families and young professionals.
Ingram Hill
This neighborhood is situated in the eastern part of Ingram and is characterized by its hilly terrain. Ingram Hill offers beautiful views of the surrounding areas and a tight-knit community feel.
West End
Positioned in the western part of Ingram, West End is a primarily residential area, known for its affordable housing options. It features a mix of detached homes, townhouses, and apartment buildings.
Fairywood
Located in the southern part of Ingram, Fairywood is a neighborhood known for its scenic landscapes and green spaces. This area offers a suburban atmosphere with a mix of housing types and easy access to parks and trails.
Sheraden
While Sheraden is not technically within the borders of Ingram, it is a neighboring neighborhood that is often considered part of the Ingram community. Sheraden is primarily residential, featuring houses of various styles and sizes. It offers a friendly atmosphere and convenient access to Ingram's amenities.
Each of these neighborhoods has its own character and amenities, but overall, Ingram offers a pleasant suburban lifestyle with easy access to downtown Pittsburgh, which is just a short drive away.