Herriottsville, Pennsylvania facts for kids

Herriottsville is a small, quiet place in South Fayette Township, which is in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, United States. It's not a city or a town with its own government, but rather an unincorporated community. This means it's part of the larger township. Herriottsville is located in the southeast part of the township, close to a stream called Chartiers Run.

In the past, Herriottsville was an important spot. It had one of the very first post offices in South Fayette Township. It was also a busy stop for stagecoaches traveling along an old road known as the Black Horse Trail.

Discover Herriottsville: A Small Community's Story

Herriottsville might be a small place today, but it has an interesting history. It played a role in how people traveled and communicated a long time ago. Understanding its past helps us see how communities grew in Pennsylvania.

What is an Unincorporated Community?

An unincorporated community is a place where people live together, but it doesn't have its own separate local government. Instead, it's governed by a larger area, like a township or county. Herriottsville is part of South Fayette Township. This means the township government handles things like roads, police, and other services for the people living in Herriottsville.

Herriottsville's Early Days: A Hub for Travelers

Long ago, Herriottsville was more than just a quiet spot. It was a vital stop for people moving through the region. Its location made it a convenient place for travelers and for sending messages.

The First Post Office

Imagine a time before emails and cell phones! Sending a letter was a big deal. Herriottsville was home to one of the first post offices in South Fayette Township. This post office was crucial for people to send and receive letters and packages. It connected the community to the rest of the world.

Stagecoaches and the Black Horse Trail

Herriottsville was also a regular stop for stagecoaches. These were like the buses of the past, pulled by horses. They carried people, mail, and goods between towns. The stagecoaches traveled on a significant old road called the Black Horse Trail. Being a stagecoach stop meant Herriottsville was a busy place. Travelers would rest, change horses, and perhaps get a meal before continuing their journey.

Famous Faces from Herriottsville: John Herriott

Even small communities can have people who go on to do important things. One notable person connected to Herriottsville was John Herriott. He became a significant political figure in another state.

What Does a Lieutenant Governor Do?

John Herriott served as the Lieutenant Governor of Iowa. A Lieutenant Governor is like a state's vice-president. They are the second-highest elected official in a state's executive branch. They often step in if the Governor cannot do their job. They also have other duties, like leading certain state committees or presiding over the state senate. John Herriott's role showed his dedication to public service.