Warren County

Warren, the county seat of Warren County, was founded in 1795 and named for General Joseph Warren, a distinguished patriot killed at the battle of Bunker Hill. Supported in the 19th and 20th centuries by oil and lumber, these wealthy barons have left a legacy of over 600 extraordinary structures depicting 25 different styles of architecture. Consider the self- guided walking tour of the 28 tree-lined blocks in the historic district, in autumn the foliage adds to the drama.

Bell Towers, the legacy of Joseph H. DeFrees are located throughout the city. The historic bells, many weighing well over a ton, collected from various sites are displayed on towers such as the arch or triad, the variety of architectural styles complete the presentation; complete information is available at the county visitor center.

Each summer visitors are invited to attend the Music in the Park programs held downtown every Friday evening. The Four Flags Celebration held during Memorial Day weekend celebrates Warren’s history with patriotic readings, brass bands and barber shoppers. For over 50 years the Warren Jaycees have sponsored a Fourth of July Celebration that includes parade, carnival and fireworks. The annual Rib Fest Cook Off brings competitors from all over; each brings their own distinctive recipe to vie for the winning title, while visitors delight in tasting the diverse fare.

Local outfitters provide canoe and kayak rentals, guide services including overnight excursions for your trip on the wild and scenic Allegheny River.

Sheffield, established in the mid 1800’s was carved out of the wilderness by pioneers and where the Seneca. Located in the heart of the Allegheny National Forest along the Tionesta Creek this area is well known to both angler’s and hunters for it’s pristine beauty and bounty.  In its heyday Sheffield was known for its tanneries and was the last great lumber town east of the Mississippi River. In October, the town hosts an annual Johnny Appleseed Festival. The festival relives the history of the great logging boom through professional lumberjack and chainsaw competition. This family oriented festival includes an apple pie baking contest, chili cook-off, antique appraisals, homemade apple butter and much more. The festival is strategically timed so visitors can enjoy the breathtaking fall foliage that surrounds the community known as the “Heart of the Allegheny National Forest”.

Sugar Grove, founded in 1802 by revolutionary War Veterans, was named for the beautiful maple forest covering its valley and surrounding hills. The community holds several annual events including the Sugar Grove Maple Syrup Competition, during the Memorial Day weekend along with a Cruise-In featuring antique and collector cars, ATA Registered Trap Shoots, and Annual 5K Run/Walk. Sugar Grove was a safe harbor on the “Underground Railroad” and was host to an anti-slavery convention in June of 1854 which was attended by Frederick Douglas, an escaped slave who served as an advisor to President Abraham Lincoln. Amish Farms and Amish buggies are a common sight in the area. In autumn, roadside stands are laden with harvest items. The village offers restaurants and exclusive shops all within walking distance of each other.

Tidioute (tiddy-oot),  is an Iroquois word meaning “protrusion of land.” The Allegheny River makes a sharp bend here creating a near-peninsula within the river valley. Access to the Allegheny River is available from a boat launch and a 5 mile nonmotorized riverside Recreation Trek both located in the heart of town.  Home of the worlds’ first natural “flowing” oil well, used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. After the discovery of oil in Titusville, Tidioute became a booming oil center and the birthplace of Standard Oil. Oil millionaires, railroads and wealth followed leaving a legacy of Victorian-era mansions. For the last 48 years; Tidioute has hosted the PA. State Championship Fishing Tournament held annually the last weekend in September.

Youngsville is located in the scenic Brokenstraw Valley of the Northern Allegheny Mountains and is a true destination for all seasons. Home to one of the foremost fishing streams in northwestern Pennsylvania, Youngsville also boasts plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, canoeing, and cross country skiing, as well. An impressive community swimming pool complex open during the summer adds to the outdoor fun. Annual community activities that attract visitors from miles around include the area’s largest summer antique car show, the popular two-day Corn Festival that celebrates “everything corn,” an Old Fashioned Christmas celebration, and a Winterfest for those more adventurous types. A variety of family friendly restaurants in the Youngsville area serve everything from tasty home cooking to a more elegant cuisine. Fresh produce and baked goods are also available from roadside stands during the harvest season. Youngsville’s quaint downtown features several distinctive shops, including an artisan’s gallery with unique wares by prominent local artists. Those seeking one-of-a-kind items for their personal collections or for gift giving will not leave this shop disappointed.