Town of Clarion
Located near the center of those portions of Armstrong and Venango Counties taken to form Clarion County in 1839, the town of Clarion is the county seat.
The Clarion River in History
The Clarion River was originally called "Toby Creek." It was a major transportation thoroughfare for logging, iron, and coal industries' development.
The Clarion River Today
Today, the river provides a backdrop for environmental preservation as well as a significant tourist attraction.
Spanning the River
Modern bridges span the Clarion River to connect the county's geographically divided communities.
Importance of Railroads
The Pennsylvania & Western Railroad was one of several train systems that have traversed Clarion County since its formation.
Effects of the Oil Boom
Depicted here in 1877, the Eli Logue farm, near the village of St. Petersburg, was typical of area homesteads of the era: once oil was discovered, rigs popped up all around the region.
Effects of Coal Mining
Coal mining eventually became a new source of industrial development in the county. Strip mining during the past century has changed much of the topography quite drastically.
The Iron Furnaces
From the county's formation, smelting local ore into pig iron was a leading industry. Abandoned furnaces dot the landscape today.
Social Development
Every community in Clarion County has supported social improvement through education and culture. The Rimersburg town band, pictured in 1935, is one example.
Clarion Countians
Clarion County's greatest asset is its people who are dedicated to the community, each other, and preserving their history.
