Bellefonte – The City of Governors
The city of Bellefonte in Central Pennsylvania is famous for one reason, it has produced five (5) state governors an extraordinary number for a city of its size. This post should be read in conjunction with my overview of State College located just to the south. Both these cities can easily be visited at the same time.
Table of Contents
A Brief History
The land that Bellefonte now stands on was purchased from the Native American inhabitants in 1785 by a man named William Lamb. There he built a mill and a small array of buildings began to grow around what was known as “Lamb’s Crossing”. In 1794 his mill was sold to John Dunlop who laid out the modern town you see before you. In competition with other towns, Bellefonte managed to win the county seat, thus allowing it to grow. It quickly built an array of structures to correspond with its newfound status including a courthouse and a jail. From there it went on to become the most important town between Pittsburgh and Harrisburg. This growth was due in large part to the iron industry and the iron works employed many people in town.
In the later part of the 19th century the iron industry began to wane but it was quickly replaced by coal and limestone mining a canal was built, a rail line was constructed and the town became know for its beautiful Victorian architecture. Although industry began to wane in the late half of the 20th century, Bellefonte remained important in large part due to its government service industry.
What to do in Bellefonte?
Although just as small town, you could easily spend a day here. Here are a few activities you should consider if you decide to visit.
Visit the Pennsylvania Match Company for Some Delicious Spirits!
The Match factory is one of the icons of Bellefonte. It was abandoned in 1947 and after passing though several owner actually lied vacant for quite some time. It would not be restored until the 2004. Today it is one of the most hip establishments in the city containing the American Philatelic Society purchase the complex of buildings and moved their offices from State College. They lease part of the building to commercial tenants such as Big Spring Spirits, an excellent distillery.
The company was founded in 1899 by a trio of men with $200,000 of their own money. The masonry complex is home to a staggering 31,000 square feet (2,900 m2) of floor space and employed over 400 people in the production of wooden matchsticks. At the time it one the 8th largest producer of such products in the United States.
Today the distillery seeks to honor this industrial heritage though its products. Samples are served in beakers and the drinks include a wide assortment of products from Rye, Bourbon, Gin, Vodka, Rum, Bourbon and beyond, with a variety of different flavors and mixes. Also available is the typical pub fare.
Stroll Governor’s Park and Explore the Old Rail Station
On the opposite side of the river from the Match factory, you can find Governor’s park. It is the largest park in the city. Here you can see the old rail tracks head towards the match factory. At the side of tracks you will find several railway cars and an old station.
This station houses the Bellefonte Historical Railroad Society and includes a playground nearby.
The park itself includes a gazebo and several amenities.
Along the banks of the river you can view the pretty masonry buildings at the edge of High Street.
Admire the Beautiful Victorian Architecture
The town is built into the Pennsylvania mountains, this stunning geographical composition can be best admired from the top of South Allegheny street. In the hills you will find the Bellefonte armoury, a historic building dating from the 20th century.
On the main street, called High Street West, you will find the most important building in Bellefonte the Center Courthouse. Dating from 1835, the Greek revival building is a sight to behold. For newshounds you may remember this building from the trial of Jerry Sandusky, the coach and perpetrator involved in the Penn State sex abuse scandal.
Along High Street you will find a collection of pretty buildings housing businesses.
The town is known for its Victorians, so it should be no surprise that one of the most impressive such structures is located a stones throw from the courthouse. This building, dating from 1866, is in fact the Brockerhoff Hotel, a Queen Anne with masonry walls and a uniquely peaked slate roof.
Before you leave make sure to visit the Gamble Mill. This historic grist processing building dates from 1894 and is a unique piece of masonry architecture.
Conclusion
Bellefonte is not a sexy destination but this small Pennsylvania town hods a certain charm that is hard to replicate. Come by the distillery, walk along the river towards the tow and see why it may be just be worth the stop off.
