Quintessential Pennsylvania

SHORTSVILLE - Founded 1840.  Named for the Short Family who were early pioneers in the area. Photo taken by Doug Kerr.

SHOHOLA - Founded 1772.  Named for Shohola Creek Indian Tribe.  Shohola is from the Lenni Lenape Native American language meaning " Place of Peace ".  Shohola is located along the Delaware River.  The nearby Shohola Falls along Shohola Creek is a popular hiking and photography destination. Shohla Falls is located about nine miles south of Shohola just off of US 6.  The falls which are located along Shohola Creek just north of Shohola Marsh Reservoir are easily accessible via a 0.8 mile loop trail.  The main cascade of Shohola Falls is about 70-75 feet wide and about 50 feet tall. It is best advised to exercise caution along the ledges  as they can be extremely dangerous especially in winter due to icing. Photos taken by Doug Kerr. Further Reading:   Shohola Falls @ UncoveringPA.com Getting There:

ROME - Founded 1795.  Bradford County town named for Rome, Italy - "The Eternal City." Photo taken by Doug Kerr.

PLEASANTVILLE - Incorporated 1871.  It appears that this small village of around 200 people hasn't completely decided on a name.  Located in Bedford County, this community is one of three Pleasantville's in the state.  However, it is also known as Alum Bank.  Prior to that, the community was formerly called Dubbstown.  Photo taken by Doug Kerr.

NEW OXFORD - Founded 1782.  The name of the town comes from three parts, near a creek ford there was an old inn with an ox head on its sign.  The term 'New' came about in order to distinguish itself from Oxford in Chester County.  Today, it's known as the antique capital of Central Pennsylvania . Photo taken by Doug Kerr.

The Miniature Railroad & Village at the Carnegie Science Center has been a Pittsburgh tradition for over 60 years.  Whether at the old Buhl Planetarium or now at the Science Center, generations of Western Pennsylvania families have visited this exhibit.  Growing up in Western Pennsylvania, this was an annual Winter and Christmas time attraction.  In fact, the exhibit traditionally was only on display for four months from November through February. When I began writing about our visit to the Miniature Railroad, I kept struggling over how to discuss the exhibit's history while including the enjoyment of my two young sons during their first visit.  You see, neither of my boys wanted to leave the display.  Colton, my oldest, insisted on going around the display multiple times to see everything.  While Nash, my youngest, would stay at a certain area minutes at a time in amazement and waiting for the next train to come by. I think that the experienc...