Kittanning, PA

County: Armstrong

History

Kittanning, Pennsylvania

Kittanning, Pennsylvania is a small borough located in Armstrong County along the Allegheny River. It has a rich history that dates back to the Native American tribes who inhabited the area before European settlement.

The region was originally home to the Lenape and Shawnee tribes, who used the area for hunting and fishing along the river. In the mid-18th century, European settlers began to establish settlements in the area. The first European settler in what is now Kittanning was James Patten, who arrived in 1753.

Kittanning played a significant role in the French and Indian War (1754-1763). It served as a base for Native American tribes allied with the French, and the area saw numerous raids and skirmishes between Native American forces and British troops.

One of the most famous incidents in the town's history occurred in 1756 when the Kittanning Expedition, led by British Lieutenant Colonel John Armstrong, attacked a Native American village that was a stronghold for the Delaware tribe and their leader, Chief Captain Jacobs. The expedition was successful in destroying the village and became a significant victory for the British during the war.

After the war, the area continued to grow, and in 1803, Kittanning was officially incorporated as a borough. The town became a major transportation hub in the 19th century with the construction of the Pennsylvania Canal and the Allegheny Valley Railroad. These developments brought economic growth to Kittanning and helped establish it as a thriving community.

Over the years, Kittanning has seen its share of economic ups and downs. The decline of the coal mining industry in the region affected the town's economy, but various industries, including glass manufacturing and tanneries, helped sustain the local economy.

Today, Kittanning is a small town with a population of around 3,000 people. It serves as the county seat of Armstrong County and is known for its charming downtown area, historic architecture, and natural beauty along the Allegheny River. The town also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its history and community spirit.

Attractions

Fort Armstrong Folk Festival

Fort Armstrong Folk Festival

This annual festival celebrates the folklore and history of Kittanning with live music, food vendors, crafts, and various family-friendly activities.

Kittanning Riverfront Park

Located along the Allegheny River, this park offers walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a boat launch for kayaking or canoeing. It also hosts occasional events and concerts.

Heritage Wine Cellars

A family-owned winery and vineyard, Heritage Wine Cellars offers wine tastings and tours of their facility. Visitors can sample a variety of wines produced onsite.

Armstrong County Historical Museum

Housed in a historic building, this museum showcases the history and culture of the Armstrong County area through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

Crooked Creek Lake

Situated just outside of Kittanning, Crooked Creek Lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. The lake and surrounding park area provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Worthington West Franklin Community Park

This community park features walking trails, sports fields, tennis courts, and a playground. It offers a peaceful retreat for outdoor activities and picnics.

Kittanning Little League Complex

The local baseball complex hosts various tournaments and games throughout the year. It is a great place to catch a game and support the local youth sports.

Steele's Real Philly Cheesesteaks

Known for their authentic Philly cheesesteaks, this restaurant is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. They also offer a variety of other sandwich options.

Ford City Memorial Park

Located nearby in the town of Ford City, this park sits along the Allegheny River and offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. It is a scenic spot to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.

Kittanning Public Library

For book lovers, the Kittanning Public Library is worth a visit. It provides a welcoming environment for reading, research, and community events.

These are just a few of the attractions in Kittanning, PA. The town and surrounding area offer a mix of historical, recreational, and cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy.

Climate

Kittanning, Pennsylvania experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The area falls under the humid continental climate zone, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters.

Summer in Kittanning is warm and can be quite humid. Average high temperatures in June, July, and August range from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (around 24-28 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can occasionally reach the 90s Fahrenheit (around 32-35 degrees Celsius) during heatwaves. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, bringing heavy rainfall.

Autumn in Kittanning is typically mild and provides beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors. September and October have average high temperatures in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 18-24 degrees Celsius), while November is cooler with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 7-13 degrees Celsius). Autumn is generally a drier season compared to summer.

Winter in Kittanning is cold and snowy. December, January, and February are the coldest months, with average high temperatures in the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (around 1-5 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can drop below freezing, and snowfall is common during this time. Some winters can be more severe, with heavy snowstorms and below-zero temperatures.

Spring in Kittanning brings a transition from the cold winter weather to milder temperatures. March, April, and May have average high temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 7-18 degrees Celsius). Spring can be unpredictable, with occasional snowfall in March and rapid temperature fluctuations. Rain showers are common as well.

Overall, Kittanning, Pennsylvania experiences a mix of weather throughout the year, with warm summers, cold winters, and mild transitional seasons. It is advisable to be prepared for varying temperatures and weather conditions when visiting or living in Kittanning.

Neighborhoods

Kittanning is a borough located in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania. While the borough itself is not divided into distinct neighborhoods, there are several areas surrounding Kittanning that are often referred to as neighborhoods due to their close proximity and community identity. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods near Kittanning:

West Kittanning

Located to the west of the Kittanning borough, this area is primarily residential with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. West Kittanning is known for its quiet streets and family-friendly atmosphere.

East Kittanning

Situated to the east of the borough, East Kittanning is a neighborhood that blends residential and commercial areas. This neighborhood offers more urban amenities with various shops, restaurants, and services along the main thoroughfares.

Manorville

Located southwest of Kittanning, Manorville is a small neighborhood known for its historic charm. It features homes from various architectural periods and a strong sense of community. The Allegheny River, which flows through Kittanning, is also a prominent feature of the Manorville neighborhood.

Ford City

Just a short drive east of Kittanning, Ford City is often considered a neighboring town but is still within close proximity. Ford City has its own distinct downtown area and residential neighborhoods with a mix of housing options. The area was historically known for its significance in the steel industry.

Applewold

Northwest of Kittanning, Applewold is a small borough that forms part of the Kittanning urban area. Applewold is mainly residential, offering a mix of houses and apartments. The neighborhood's close proximity to Kittanning makes it convenient for residents to access amenities and services.

While these are some of the neighborhoods surrounding Kittanning, it's important to note that the borough itself is relatively small and has a tight-knit community atmosphere. Many residents enjoy the peaceful and friendly environment, as well as the access to recreational activities along the Allegheny River.

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