Bradford County facts for kids
Bradford County is a name used for two different places in the United States. When you hear "Bradford County," it could be talking about a county in the sunny state of Bradford County, Florida or a county in the historic state of Bradford County, Pennsylvania. Both are important parts of their states, but they have their own unique stories and features.
Contents
What is a County?
A county is like a smaller area within a state, similar to a district or a region. Counties help organize local government and services. They often have their own county seat, which is the main town where the county government offices are located. People living in a county share some common services and laws.
Bradford County in Florida
Bradford County, Florida, is located in the northeastern part of the state. It's known for its natural beauty and a quieter way of life compared to Florida's busy coastal cities.
Where is it located?
This county is found in North Florida, not too far from the city of Jacksonville. It's surrounded by other counties like Clay, Union, Alachua, and Baker. The landscape here includes forests, small towns, and some agricultural areas.
A Look at its History
Bradford County was officially created on December 21, 1858. It was originally named New River County. However, its name was changed in 1861 to honor Captain Richard H. Bradford. Captain Bradford was a brave soldier who fought for Florida during the American Civil War. He was the first officer from Florida to lose his life in that war. The county seat, which is the main town for government, is Starke.
What is it like today?
Today, Bradford County has a population of around 28,000 people. Many people who live here enjoy the peaceful environment and the outdoor activities. The economy relies on things like farming, timber (wood from trees), and some manufacturing. The county is also home to the Florida State Prison, which is a major employer in the area.
Bradford County in Pennsylvania
Bradford County, Pennsylvania, is located in the northern part of that state. It's part of a region known for its rolling hills, valleys, and beautiful scenery, especially during the fall.
Where is it located?
This county is in the northern tier of Pennsylvania, right on the border with New York State. It's part of the Appalachian Mountains region, which means it has lots of hills, forests, and rivers. The Susquehanna River, a very important river in Pennsylvania, flows through this county.
A Look at its History
Bradford County was formed on February 21, 1810. It was created from parts of Lycoming and Luzerne counties. The county was named after William Bradford, who was a famous lawyer and judge. He served as the Attorney General of the United States under President George Washington. The county seat for Bradford County, Pennsylvania, is Towanda.
What is it like today?
Bradford County, Pennsylvania, has a population of about 60,000 people. The economy here has historically been strong in agriculture, especially dairy farming. More recently, the natural gas industry has also become important due to the Marcellus Shale formation. Tourism is also growing, with people visiting for outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and enjoying the natural beauty.
See also
In Spanish: Condado de Bradford para niños
