Clarion County, PA

trailhead to
heritage

Founded in 1839, Clarion County was named after the Clarion river that runs through its picturesque landscapes.

The region’s history is intertwined with the timber and oil industries; its lush forests and waterways fueled a bustling lumber trade in the 19th century, while the discovery of oil in the late 1850s spurred rapid growth and prosperity. Today, remnants of this boom era are visible in the county’s architecture and historical artifacts.

Clarion County is strategically located halfway between New York City and Chicago, on transcontinental Interstate 80, with convenient access to I-79 to its west.

Lumber Heritage

Clarion County, Pennsylvania, has a deep and enduring connection to the lumber industry, which shaped the region’s economic, social, and environmental landscape throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. The county’s vast forests, abundant with white pine, hemlock, and oak, were once a critical source of timber for America’s industrial development. The legacy of this heritage is not only reflected in the historic sawmills and lumber companies that operated in the region but also in the preservation of natural areas such as Cook Forest, a vital part of Clarion County’s lumber history.

Numerous stories and articles have been written about the Clarion River, chronicling its remarkable transformation from an industrial legacy to a renewed wild and scenic treasure.

Glass Industry

Clarion County, Pennsylvania, played a significant role in the American glass industry, particularly in the early to mid-20th century. the county became a key player, with its glass plants contributing to both local and national economies.

Dominick Labino, one of the founders of modern art glass, was born in Clarion county and got his start at the Owens plant in Clarion. He also did important work in the development of fiberglass for Johns-Manville.

In the early 19th century, Clarion County’s abundant natural resources—like sand, coal, and natural gas—made it the perfect location for glassmaking. The region quickly became a hub for innovation, producing everything from fine tableware to industrial glass.
Towns like Knox and Clarion were once bustling centers of glass production, and their legacies still shine through. Today, Clarion County celebrates this rich history with reminders of its glassmaking roots found in museums and local artifacts, which can be found in many of our county’s antique shops, like the Clarion Antique Mall or Farmhouse Antiques & Rusty Stuff.

Historical Sites

Our region is steeped in history and boasts several distinguished historical sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, each represents a unique aspect of Clarion County’s cultural and historical significance.

Antiquing

Pennsylvania is widely recognized as the premier destination in the USA for antique shopping. It’s no surprise that antique enthusiasts are drawn to this wonderful haven.

Steeped in rich history and craftsmanship, Clarion County promises a unique shopping experience. Whether you’re in search of vintage furniture, collectibles, or unique decor pieces, you’ll discover hidden treasures amidst our quaint historic towns, and uncover the stories woven into lovingly preserved items, each telling a tale of their own.

from the blog

Articles and Stories

Finding Magic in the Snow: A 44th Birthday Adventure with Mom

Discover Cook Forest: First-Time Visitor’s Guide

Wintry Getaway Along the Clarion River

Winter in The Wilds: Plan Your Winter Escape in Clarion County

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Heritage in Clarion County

Region

Cultural & HistoricalFamily FunTrails

Climax Tunnel

4635 Climax Road
New Bethlehem, PA 16242

Cultural & Historical

Helen Furnace Park

2001-2299 White Oak Dr
Clarion, PA 16214

Cultural & Historical

PennWest Clarion

840 Wood St
Clarion, PA 16214

Cultural & HistoricalShopping

Pine Springs Pottery

1650 Stony Road
New Bethlehem, PA 16242

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