Cambria County: Keystone Chronicle
Unveiling the history, demographics, and community fabric of Pennsylvania's heartland.
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County Overview
Foundation and Naming
Cambria County, established on March 26, 1804, and organized in 1807, is situated in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It was named after Wales, whose Latin name is "Cambria," reflecting early settlement influences.[4] Its county seat is Ebensburg, while Johnstown serves as the largest city.[3] The county is recognized as part of "Greater Appalachia," highlighting its regional cultural identity.[9]
Population Context
As of the 2020 census, Cambria County's population was 133,472. Historically, the county experienced population growth peaking in the mid-20th century, followed by a gradual decline. This demographic trend is common in many industrial regions of the northeastern United States.[10]
Governance
The county is governed by a board of three commissioners, with current representation reflecting a shift towards Republican majority in recent elections. Various other county offices, including District Attorney, Controller, and Sheriff, are also detailed, with a majority currently held by Republican officials.[12]
Geographical Landscape
Area and Water
Cambria County encompasses a total area of approximately 694 square miles (1,800 km2), with 688 square miles (1,780 km2) designated as land. Water bodies constitute about 0.8% of the total area.[7]
Climate
The county experiences a warm-summer humid continental climate (Kรถppen: Dfb). This climate is characterized by distinct seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Average monthly temperatures in Johnstown range from 27.8ยฐF in January to 71.0ยฐF in July.[8]
Location and Boundaries
Strategically located within Pennsylvania, Cambria County shares borders with Clearfield, Blair, Bedford, Somerset, Westmoreland, and Indiana counties. It is also home to portions of the Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site and the Johnstown Flood National Memorial.[6]
Demographic Profile
Population Trends
Cambria County's population has seen a decline since its peak in the mid-20th century. The 2020 census recorded 133,472 residents, a decrease from 152,598 in 2000 and 143,679 in 2010.[2] The population density is approximately 194 people per square mile.[2]
Ancestry and Diversity
The county's population is predominantly of European ancestry, with significant German, Irish, Italian, and Polish heritage.[11] In 2020, the racial composition was 89.44% White (non-Hispanic), 4.24% Black or African American (non-Hispanic), and smaller percentages for other groups.[11] The median age is 41 years.[11]
Political Landscape
Historically a swing county, Cambria County has shown a marked trend towards the Republican party in presidential elections since the mid-2000s. Donald Trump, for instance, secured significant majorities in 2016 and 2020.[12] Voter registration data as of April 2024 indicates a Republican majority (51.55%) over Democrats (37.52%).[14]
Governance and Representation
County Administration
The county is administered by three elected Commissioners, alongside other key offices such as District Attorney, Controller, Prothonotary, and Sheriff. Party affiliations for these positions are predominantly Republican, reflecting the county's current political leanings.[12]
Federal and State Representation
Cambria County is represented in the U.S. House of Representatives by John Joyce (Republican) in the 13th Congressional District. At the state level, it is represented in the State Senate by Wayne Langerholc (Republican) and in the State House by James Rigby, Frank Burns (Democrat), and Dallas Kephart (Republican).[12]
Electoral History
The county's voting patterns reveal a historical shift. While it was a swing county in the early 2000s, it has trended Republican in recent presidential and senatorial elections. This trend is evident in voter registration numbers and election results, showcasing a significant Republican advantage.[12]
Educational Institutions
Higher Education
Cambria County hosts several institutions of higher learning, including the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, Mount Aloysius College, and Saint Francis University. Additionally, community and technical colleges like Pennsylvania Highlands Community College serve the region.[17]
Public and Private Schools
The county is served by numerous public school districts, such as Greater Johnstown, Cambria Heights, and Penn Cambria. A variety of private schools, including Catholic institutions like Bishop Carroll High School and Bishop McCort High School, also provide educational opportunities.[17]
Vocational Training
Vocational and technical training is available through institutions like Admiral Peary Vocational-Technical School and the Greater Johnstown Career & Technology Center, preparing students for skilled trades and technical careers.[17]
Communities and Municipalities
Urban Centers
The primary urban center is Johnstown, a city with a rich industrial history. Ebensburg serves as the county seat. The county is comprised of numerous boroughs, townships, and census-designated places, each contributing to the region's diverse community landscape.[23]
Population Ranking
The following table ranks the county's populated places based on their 2010 census figures, highlighting the distribution of residents across different types of communities.
Historical Significance
Origins and Development
Founded in 1804 and organized in 1807, Cambria County's establishment was influenced by Welsh settlement, leading to its Latin-derived name. The county seat is Ebensburg, and Johnstown is its largest city. The region's history is deeply intertwined with industrial development, particularly the Cambria Iron Company, which played a pivotal role in Johnstown's growth.[4][5]
Outdoor Recreation
State Parks
Cambria County offers natural beauty and recreational opportunities through its state parks. Prince Gallitzin State Park, named after Demetrius Gallitzin, a key figure in the county's settlement, provides extensive outdoor activities.[22] Laurel Ridge State Park features a significant hiking trail, connecting to other natural areas within the state.[22]
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References
References
- Includes Westmoreland, Cambria, Fayette, Blair, Indiana, Somerset, Bedford, Huntingdon, Greene and Fulton Counties
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not official county information or advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for consulting official county resources or seeking professional advice. Always refer to official sources for the most current and accurate information.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.