Big Spring (Pennsylvania) facts for kids
The Big Spring is a special place near Luthersburg, Pennsylvania. Long ago, it was a very important campsite and meeting point for two major Native American trails: the Great Shamokin Path and the Goschgoschink Path. Imagine it as a busy highway intersection for travelers centuries ago!
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What Was the Great Shamokin Path?
The Great Shamokin Path was a long trail that stretched across Pennsylvania. It connected the Susquehanna River in the east with the Allegheny River in the west. This path started at a Native American village called Shamokin on the Susquehanna River. It ended in Kittanning, Pennsylvania, on the Allegheny River.
Finding the Big Spring
Travelers on the Great Shamokin Path had to climb up the steep Anderson Creek Gorge for several miles. Then, they would turn west at a place now called Chestnut Grove. This led them right to the Big Spring. Today, you can find a special marker for the Big Spring. It was put there on December 29, 1950. The marker is near US Route 322 and Pennsylvania Route 410, about 0.5 miles (0.8 km) southwest of Luthersburg.
The Goschgoschink Path: A Journey to the Great Lakes
The Goschgoschink Path was another important trail that started right at the Big Spring. This path was later known as Mead's Path. It went northwest through places like Sandy Valley Station, north of Reynoldsville. It continued past Emerickville to Brookville.
Reaching the Allegheny River
The Goschgoschink Path then went north of Clarion. Finally, it reached West Hickory, Pennsylvania, in Forest County. This spot was right on the Allegheny River. From here, travelers could continue their journey. They could go to Fort Le Boeuf and even reach Lake Erie.
Explorers and New Settlements
In 1753, George Washington explored parts of Pennsylvania. He told Governor Robert Dinwiddie about a beautiful area perfect for new settlements. This area was along the waters of French Creek.
The Mead Brothers' Adventure
In 1788, two brothers, John and David Mead, decided to explore Washington's discovery. They left Fort Augusta, which is now Sunbury, Pennsylvania. They traveled up Anderson Creek and turned towards the Big Spring. From this important crossroads, they continued northwest on the Goschgoschink Path. They eventually reached the Venango Path and the waters of French Creek. On May 12, 1788, the Mead brothers founded a new town. They named it Meadville, Pennsylvania. It was built where Cussewago Creek meets French Creek.
The Big Spring in the War of 1812
The Big Spring also played a role in the War of 1812. On March 4, 1814, Major William McCelland led a group of soldiers from Fort Loudoun. This fort was near Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.
Soldiers on the Goschgoschink Path
Major McCelland's division had 221 private soldiers, three captains, five lieutenants, and two ensigns. They marched along Anderson Creek. Their goal was to meet the Goschgoschink Path at the Big Spring. From there, they continued their journey. These soldiers went to help American forces fighting near Lake Erie. They later fought bravely in important battles. These included the Battle of Chippewa and the Battle of Lundy's Lane.
