Zelienople, Pennsylvania

Zelienople, PA, is a quaint borough located in Butler County, Pennsylvania, with a population of just over 3,000 people. It was founded in 1802 and was named after the eldest daughter of Baron Dettmar Basse. The borough is situated just north of Pittsburgh, making it a perfect place to call home for those who want to live close to the city but not in the city. Zelienople is home to many businesses and amenities, including the Strand Theater, which hosts various musical and theatrical performances throughout the year. The town also has several parks and recreation areas, as well as a number of historic sites.

Zelienople is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. There are plenty of things to do in this small town, and it is close enough to Pittsburgh to make trips into the city for shopping, dining, and entertainment. If you are looking for a charming community with a rich history, Zelienople may be the perfect place for you.

Zelienople's History

The town of Zelienople prospered because its center was on the primary highway connecting Erie and Pittsburgh at the time. Detmar Basse, the town's founder, named it after his daughter Zelie in 1802. To build the town, he acquired 10,000 acres of post-Revolutionary War Depreciation Lands.

As there were no practical means of transportation in the early Zelienople, local agriculture was supported by commerce. Zelienople became a borough by incorporation in 1840. A railroad was constructed through Zelienople in 1878. Since this time, local government, housing, and industry have all moderately expanded. A volunteer fire service has existed since around 1850. In 1994, a full-time Borough Manager was hired. In order for Zelienople to adapt to these changes in the twenty-first century, it will be difficult given the development of Pittsburgh to the south and the construction of Interstate 79.

In 1908, an interurban trolley line called the Pittsburgh, Harmony, Butler, and New Castle Railway connected Zelienople to Ellwood City, Evans City, and Pittsburgh. On June 15th, 1931, the line was shut down, and buses took the place of the trolleys. Another famous landmark in Zelienople is the old Eichholtz Building. The Eichholtz family had a significant impact on Zelienople's history and development.

Top Attractions in Zelienople, PA

1. Strand Theater - The Strand Theater, founded in 2001, is a non-profit, Historic Theater located in Zelienople, PA. The Strand's mission is to provide the region with quality entertainment and educational programming that enriches the lives of our citizens and promotes economic development.
2. Harmony Museum - The Harmony Museum interprets the history of the town of Harmony and its environs from the time of the Native Americans to the present day. People of all ages will enjoy the hands-on exhibits, audio-visual presentations, and special events.
3. Zelienople Community Park - Zelienople Community Park is a 28-acre park that features walking trails, pavilions, a playground, basketball courts, and a sand volleyball court. The park is also home to the Zelienople Pool and skate park.
4. Buhl House - The Buhl House is one of the oldest standing structures in Zelienople. The house was occupied by several families over the years and has been restored to its original Greek Revival style. The Buhl House is open for tours and special events.
5. Passavant House - Zelienople's oldest house (1808) is now a museum, library, and the main office of the Zelienople Historical Society. Many of the original furnishings are on display, and the house is open for tours.

Zelienople is a great place to live, work, and play! Tourists and locals alike can enjoy all that Zelienople has to offer! From historical sites to modern-day amenities, there is something for everyone in this small town.