Broadford, Pennsylvania facts for kids
Broadford is a small community located in Connellsville Township, Pennsylvania. It is found in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, which is southeast of the big city of Pittsburgh. Broadford sits right next to the Youghiogheny River, just downstream from the town of Connellsville. A smaller stream called Galley Run also flows into the Youghiogheny River here.
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What is the History of Broadford?
Broadford has an interesting past, especially with its old industries and transportation links.
How Did Broadford Become Known for Distilling?
Broadford was once the home of a very important business: the A. Overholt and Company Distillery. This company was famous for making a type of grain spirit called Old Overholt. A well-known businessman from Pittsburgh, H. Clay Frick, once managed this distillery. Even today, you can still see some of the old buildings and ruins from the distillery in Broadford.
What Role Did Railroads Play in Broadford's Past?
Broadford was also a key location for railroads. It was a meeting point for two important train lines: the Pittsburgh & Connellsville Railroad and the Mount Pleasant & Broad Ford Railroad. The Pittsburgh & Connellsville line followed the Youghiogheny River, while the Mount Pleasant line connected Broadford to Mount Pleasant. Both of these railroads later became part of the larger B&O system, which is now known as CSX. Today, a passenger train called the Capitol Limited still travels through Broadford on its way to Connellsville.
What Happened to Broadford's Industries?
In the early 1900s, Broadford was a busy place because of coal mining. The town also produced a fuel called coke, which is made from coal. However, by the middle of the century, these industries slowed down. The distillery, which had continued making spirits for medical use during a time when alcohol was generally forbidden, became the main employer. Later, the company that owned the distillery decided to close it down. Production of Old Overholt was then moved to Cincinnati, Ohio.
