Blairsville

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Located in Southern Indiana County on the north shore of the Conemaugh River, Blairsville was settled in 1818 and incorporated in 1825.  James Campbell named the town after John Blair of Huntington. 


Because of its location along the Conemaugh River, Blairsville has a storied manufacturing history, plate glass and lumber being two of the larger ones throughout its history.  Blairsville's population peaked at over 5,200 residents in 1930 but has since declined to just over 3,200.

The Einstein Block Building -  Built in 1904, it was once an opera house.

Blairsville was a key point in the Underground Railroad.  Here, many freedom-seeking slaves continued their journey northward towards Canada with the assistance of over 90 different 'conductors' within Indiana County.  The Blairsville Area Underground Railroad History Center is located at the site of the former Second Baptist Church.  From there, you can embark on a guided journey throughout Indiana County to numerous waypoints that were part of the network.  Visits to the History Center is currently by appointment.

The Moose Temple Building in Blairsville.

Blairsville sits along the old William Penn Highway/Old US 22.  US 22 was the main street through town (Market Street) until a new bypass was built to the north in 1953.

All photos taken by post author - December 24, 2011.

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