Sharpsburg, PA
County: Allegheny
History
Sharpsburg, Pennsylvania is a small borough located in Allegheny County, along the northeastern border of the city of Pittsburgh. The town has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 19th century.
The area where Sharpsburg is situated was originally settled by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware tribes. In the late 18th century, European settlers began to arrive in the region, attracted by the fertile land near the Allegheny River. The land that is now Sharpsburg was initially part of a larger tract owned by Matthew Kinlock, who purchased it from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in 1789.
In 1827, the area was officially incorporated as a borough and was named after a prominent landowner and businessman, Judge Jacob S. Schenley, who owned a large portion of the land at that time. The name was later changed to Sharpsburg in 1840 in honor of an influential local politician, Peter Sharpe.
During the mid-19th century, Sharpsburg experienced rapid industrialization and economic growth. The construction of the Pennsylvania Canal and later the Pennsylvania Railroad greatly aided in the transportation of goods, attracting numerous industries to the area. Steel mills, breweries, and glass factories thrived, providing employment opportunities for many residents.
One significant event in Sharpsburg's history was the Battle of Antietam, which took place during the American Civil War in September 1862. Despite its distance from Antietam Creek in Maryland, the battle had a significant impact on Sharpsburg. The townspeople provided aid to wounded soldiers and became a temporary field hospital. Today, the borough is proud of its association with this historic event and closely identifies with its participants.
Over the years, Sharpsburg faced its share of challenges. The decline of heavy industry in the region during the late 20th century led to economic struggles. However, the borough has made efforts to revitalize and reinvent itself in recent years. The town has seen the development of new businesses, artists' studios, and community-focused initiatives that aim to preserve its historical character while fostering revitalization.
In conclusion, Sharpsburg, PA has a storied past that encompasses Native American life, industrialization, and the impact of the Civil War. While the town has faced its share of challenges, it continues to evolve and adapt to changing times while embracing its rich history and community spirit.
Attractions
The Arsenal Bowl
A popular bowling alley with a retro feel, offering multiple lanes, arcade games, and a lounge area.
Cooper-Siegel Community Library
A local public library that offers a wide selection of books, resources, and community programs.
Sharpsburg Historic District
A designated historic district with well-preserved 19th-century buildings and architecture.
Waterworks Shopping Plaza
A shopping complex with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Sharpsburg Community Recreation Center
A multi-purpose facility offering fitness classes, sports leagues, and recreational programs for all ages.
Otto Milk Company
A local dairy and ice cream shop known for its delicious homemade ice cream flavors.
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
Located nearby in Pittsburgh, the zoo offers a wide range of animal exhibits and educational programs for visitors to enjoy.
Heinz Field
Home of the Pittsburgh Steelers football team, the stadium also hosts concerts and other events throughout the year.
Carnegie Science Center
Another nearby attraction, the science center features interactive exhibits, a planetarium, an IMAX theater, and a submarine tour.
Strip District
A vibrant neighborhood in Pittsburgh known for its unique shops, ethnic markets, and delicious food options, located just a short drive away from Sharpsburg.
Climate
Sharpsburg, Pennsylvania has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Here is a breakdown of each season:
Summer (June to August)
Summers in Sharpsburg are generally warm and humid. Average high temperatures range from the mid-70s Fahrenheit (mid-20s Celsius) in June to the low 80s Fahrenheit (around 27-28 degrees Celsius) in July and August. Nights are usually cool, with lows dropping to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 18 degrees Celsius). Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the season, with occasional thunderstorms and rain showers.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn in Sharpsburg is mild and pleasant. September still retains some summer-like warmth, with temperatures ranging from the high 70s Fahrenheit (around 25-26 degrees Celsius) to the low 70s Fahrenheit (around 21-22 degrees Celsius). As the season progresses, temperatures gradually drop, and by November, highs average in the low to mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 10-13 degrees Celsius). Nights become colder, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 7-8 degrees Celsius) to the low 30s Fahrenheit (around -1 to -3 degrees Celsius). Autumn sees a gradual increase in rainfall, with occasional winter storms towards the end of the season.
Winter (December to February)
Winters in Sharpsburg are cold and snowy. Average high temperatures hover around the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (around 1-6 degrees Celsius), with lows dropping to the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (around -3 to -1 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common during this season, with an average annual snowfall of around 30-40 inches (76-102 cm). Precipitation is evenly distributed between rain and snow.
Spring (March to May)
Springs in Sharpsburg are mild and gradually warm up. March is still relatively cold, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 7 degrees Celsius) to the low 50s Fahrenheit (around 10 degrees Celsius). By May, highs average in the mid to high 60s Fahrenheit (around 18-21 degrees Celsius). Nights become milder, with temperatures ranging from the low 30s Fahrenheit (around -1 degree Celsius) to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 7-8 degrees Celsius). Spring sees an increase in rainfall, with occasional showers and thunderstorms.
Overall, Sharpsburg experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with mild to cold winters and warm to hot summers. It is advisable to check the local weather forecast for the most accurate and up-to-date information on temperatures and precipitation.
Neighborhoods
Sharpsburg is a borough located along the Allegheny River in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. Despite being a small borough, it has several distinct neighborhoods within its boundaries. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Sharpsburg:
Main Street
The Main Street neighborhood is the central commercial hub of Sharpsburg. It features a mix of small businesses, shops, and restaurants. This area has a historic charm with well-preserved buildings, and it serves as a gathering place for residents and visitors.
Garfield Avenue
Garfield Avenue is a residential neighborhood located on the eastern side of Sharpsburg. It mainly consists of residential homes and is known for its tree-lined streets and quiet atmosphere. The neighborhood offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and some apartments.
Sharps Hill
Sharps Hill is a neighborhood located on a hilltop in the western part of Sharpsburg. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and the Allegheny River. This neighborhood is known for its mix of housing styles, including Victorian-era homes and newer constructions.
Fox Chapel Road
Fox Chapel Road is a neighborhood located on the northern edge of Sharpsburg. It primarily consists of residential areas with a mix of single-family homes and some townhomes. The neighborhood offers easy access to nearby parks and green spaces.
Shaler Street
Shaler Street is a residential neighborhood located on the southern side of Sharpsburg. It has a mix of housing options, including older homes and newer developments. The neighborhood is known for its proximity to the Allegheny Riverfront Park, which provides recreational opportunities for residents.
Each neighborhood in Sharpsburg has its own unique characteristics and atmosphere, giving residents a variety of options when it comes to choosing a place to live or visit.