Trafford, PA

County: Westmoreland

History

Trafford, Pennsylvania

Trafford, Pennsylvania is a borough located in Westmoreland County, in the southwestern part of the state. The town's history dates back to the early 19th century.

In the early 1800s, Trafford was primarily an agricultural area with several farms and small settlements. However, the construction of the Pennsylvania Railroad in the 1850s brought significant changes to the region. The railroad led to the growth of industry and the establishment of new towns along its route, including Trafford.

The town was initially known as East Trafford due to its location on the eastern side of Turtle Creek, a tributary of the Monongahela River. The name "Trafford" was derived from nearby Trafford Park, an industrial estate located in Manchester, England.

The expansion of industrial facilities in Trafford began in the late 19th century. The discovery of coal and the availability of transportation through the railroad led to the establishment of coal mines and coke ovens, which were crucial for the steel industry in the Pittsburgh region.

With the growth of industry in Trafford, the population increased steadily. The borough was officially incorporated on June 7, 1904, separating from North Huntington Township. Throughout the early 20th century, Trafford continued to develop as a small industrial town, attracting more workers and businesses.

In the mid-20th century, there was a decline in the steel industry nationwide, which affected Trafford as well. Many industrial facilities and coal mines closed down, leading to a decrease in population and economic struggles. However, the town remained resilient, and efforts were made to revitalize the area.

Today, Trafford is a small, tight-knit community with a population of around 3,000 residents. While the coal industry is no longer prominent, the town still maintains some small manufacturing and service industries. Trafford is also known for its annual American Legion parade, which has been held every Fourth of July since 1947.

Overall, Trafford's history reflects the typical trajectory of many industrial towns in Western Pennsylvania. Starting as an agricultural area, the town transformed into an industrial center in the 19th century. While facing challenges with the decline of the steel industry, Trafford has preserved its sense of community and continues to thrive as a residential borough.

Attractions

Westmoreland County Sports Complex

Westmoreland County Sports Complex

A multi-sport facility featuring soccer fields, baseball diamonds, basketball courts, and a fitness center.

Murrysville Community Park

A large park offering walking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.

Murrysville Golf Club

A popular golf course for enthusiasts to enjoy a round of golf.

Bushy Run Battlefield

A historic site and museum commemorating the Battle of Bushy Run during the French and Indian War.

The Manor Theatre

A historic movie theater with a retro ambiance, showing a mix of classic and current movies.

Monroeville Mall

Located nearby in Monroeville, this large shopping mall features a variety of stores and restaurants.

Artistic Expressions by Lisa

A local art gallery showcasing works by various artists and offering classes for both adults and kids.

These are just a few examples of attractions in and around Trafford, PA. There may be more to explore depending on your interests.

Climate

Trafford, Pennsylvania, experiences a humid continental climate. This means that it has hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters.

During the summer months of June, July, and August, temperatures in Trafford can range from around 70°F (21°C) to the mid-80s°F (low 30s°C). However, heatwaves can occur, pushing temperatures higher. The humidity levels are often high, making it feel hotter than the actual temperature. Thunderstorms are also common during the summer months.

In winter, which generally lasts from December to February, temperatures in Trafford can drop to the low 20s°F (-6°C) and occasionally into the single digits. Snowfall is common throughout the season, with an average annual snowfall of around 30 inches (76 cm). Cold winds from the north and northwest can make the winters feel even colder.

Spring and fall are transitional seasons in Trafford. Spring, from March to May, starts off chilly but gradually warms up with temperatures reaching the 50s°F (10-15°C). Fall, from September to November, begins with mild temperatures before progressively getting cooler, with average highs ranging from the 50s°F (10-15°C) to the 60s°F (15-20°C).

Overall, Trafford has a typical continental climate with distinct seasons. It experiences a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with the highest rainfall occurring during the summer months.

Neighborhoods

Trafford, PA is a borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. While it is a relatively small town, it can be divided into a few distinct neighborhoods.

Downtown Trafford

This is the main commercial area of the borough, where you will find a variety of businesses, shops, and restaurants. It is the central hub of activity for residents and visitors alike.

West Trafford

Located on the western side of the borough, this neighborhood is mostly residential. It features a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, offering a quiet and suburban atmosphere. West Trafford is known for its tree-lined streets and a friendly community.

East Trafford

East Trafford is another primarily residential neighborhood located on the eastern side of the borough. Similar to West Trafford, it offers a peaceful suburban setting with a variety of housing options. There are also some local parks and green spaces in this area.

Grandview Heights

Situated on a hill in the northern part of Trafford, Grandview Heights offers residents a scenic view of the surrounding area. It is a desirable neighborhood known for its larger and more upscale homes.

Level Green

While technically not part of Trafford itself, Level Green is an unincorporated community located just south of the borough. Many residents of Level Green consider it part of the greater Trafford area. It is a residential neighborhood with a mix of older and newer homes, as well as some local businesses.

Overall, Trafford, PA is a close-knit community with a range of neighborhoods that offer different living environments, from vibrant downtown areas to peaceful suburban enclaves.

Nearby Cities