Washington County In PA
Washington County, located in southwestern Pennsylvania, carries a significant historical and cultural heritage. The county, named after the first President of the United States, George Washington, is a melting pot of diverse communities, rich history, and modern amenities.
Overview of Washington County
Washington County is home to a population of 209,349 as per the 2020 census. The city of Washington serves as the county seat. The county is a part of the Pittsburgh, PA Metropolitan Statistical Area and houses the Washington County Airport.
Historical Background
Founded on March 28, 1781, it was carved out of Westmoreland County. The city and county both honor the memory of George Washington, the leader of the American Revolutionary War, and the first President of the United States. The county also houses the town of Charleroi, named after the Belgian city of the same name, reflecting the significant Belgian immigrant population that resided in the Monongahela area in the 19th century. The county spans over a total area of 861 square miles, with a vast majority of 857 square miles being land and a minor 3.9 square miles of lakes, rivers, etc.
Adjacent Counties
The county shares its borders with Beaver County in the north, Allegheny County in the northeast, Westmoreland County in the east, Fayette County in the southeast, and Greene County in the south. It also borders Marshall County, Ohio County, Brooke County, and Hancock County in West Virginia towards the west and southwest.
Major Highways
Several major highways crisscross the county, including Interstates 70 and 79, U.S. Routes 19, 22, 40, and numerous Pennsylvania Routes such as PA 18, PA Turnpike 43, PA 50, PA 88, PA 136, PA 221, PA 231, PA 331, PA 481, PA 519, PA Turnpike 576, PA 837, PA 844, PA 917, and PA 980.
Washington County Flag
The county flag displays a light blue background with the county’s seal at the center. The seal is a montage of the county courthouse, a covered bridge, an Indigenous American, and an early settler, enclosed within a circle bearing the words “Historical Washington County” and “1781”.
Climate
The county experiences a humid continental climate, obviously similar to the weather in Pittsburgh (Allegheny County) with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The highest precipitation occurs during the summer months, with an annual average of about 38.87 inches. Snowfall is common between November and April, averaging around 37.8 inches.
Government and Politics
The county is governed by a three-member publicly elected commission, with each commissioner serving a term of four years. The commission is mandated by state law to include a minority party, ensuring a political split. The commissioners manage the county’s fiscal and administrative functions.
Landmarks and Events
Washington County is home to several landmarks and hosts numerous events. The Pony League Baseball, a significant event for 13 and 14-year-old boys, was founded here in 1951. The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum is another notable landmark. One of the oldest and best-preserved Pre-Clovis Native American dwellings, the Rock Shelters at Meadowcroft Village, are located here. The county also houses 21 covered bridges.
Education
The county offers multiple educational opportunities with several colleges and universities, including California University of Pennsylvania and Washington & Jefferson College. It is served by numerous public school districts and private schools. The county also houses various libraries, offering excellent resources for research and learning.
Hospitals
The county is equipped with several hospitals, including Canonsburg General Hospital, Penn Highlands Mon Valley, and The Washington Hospital, providing quality healthcare services to its residents.
Communities
The County is a blend of various cities, boroughs, townships, and communities. It comprises two cities – Monongahela and Washington, and numerous boroughs including Allenport, Beallsville, Bentleyville, Burgettstown, and California, among others. The county is also home to several townships and census-designated and unincorporated communities.
Washington County, with its rich history, diverse communities, and modern amenities, offers a unique blend of the past and the present. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of the American people and their continuous strive for progress and development.
