PA Museums

Exploring the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville

A collage of four photos taken at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania. The top left image shows the front entrance of the history center, featuring a brick building with green and white striped awnings and large display windows. The top right image depicts a historic parlor room with period furnishings, including a grand piano, fireplace, and antique seating, showcasing 19th-century decor. The bottom left image features the Twyford Motorcar, a blue early automobile with yellow wheels, recognized as the first four-wheel-drive vehicle, prominently displayed inside the museum. The bottom right image shows a vintage poster for "Brookville's Big Fair" held in 1905, with an illustration of an equestrian event and details about the fair's attractions.

If you’re looking for information about visiting the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, you’re in the right place!

A display at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, showcasing the history of Native Americans and early settlers in the region. The exhibit features several glass cases containing artifacts such as tools, pottery, jewelry, and agricultural implements. Above the cases, a mural depicts petroglyphs and rock art. The display includes detailed information panels about the daily life, hunting and fishing practices, and European contact with Native Americans. Taxidermy animals, including a beaver and a squirrel, are positioned on top of the cases, alongside antlers and other natural elements, enhancing the educational presentation. Decorative elements like sunflowers and pumpkins are arranged at the base of the exhibit, adding a touch of seasonal decor.

The Jefferson County History Center features a diverse array of artifacts and exhibits that illustrate the history of both the county and prehistoric western Pennsylvania.

A historic wooden wagon manufactured by the Brookville Manufacturing Company, displayed at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania. The wagon features large wooden wheels and intricate painted details, with the word "Brookville" prominently visible on its side. Behind the wagon, an informative display provides historical context about the Brookville Manufacturing Company, including its founding, operations, and eventual closure. Additional historical artifacts and exhibits are visible in the background, enhancing the historical narrative presented in the museum.

Occupying two floors of the historic Nathan Greene Edelblute Building (and just a block from the county courthouse), the museum is a hidden gem that offers a captivating journey through time.

A side view of the Jefferson County Courthouse in Brookville, Pennsylvania, highlighting its red brick exterior, white trim, and arched windows. The courthouse features a prominent clock tower and decorative architectural elements under the roofline. The building sits on a landscaped plot with trees and a grand staircase leading to the entrance. Parked vehicles, including a red truck and an orange car, are visible on the street in front of the courthouse. The surrounding area includes other historic buildings, contributing to the charming and historic atmosphere of downtown Brookville.

Directions | Hours | Admission Fees

The Jefferson County History Center is located at 172 Main Street, Brookville, PA 15825.

The museum is open Wednesday-Saturday 11:00am-4:00pm.

The front entrance of the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania. The building features a brick facade with green and gold trim, and two large windows on either side of the entrance, covered by green and white striped awnings. The center's name is prominently displayed above the entrance in gold letters. The door is flanked by two windows showcasing exhibits from inside the museum. A green parking meter is visible on the sidewalk in front of the building, along with a planter and a sign promoting the museum's offerings. The overall appearance is welcoming and well-maintained, reflecting the center's dedication to preserving local history.

Admission to the museum is free, but donations are appreciated.

A vintage poster advertising "Brookville's Big Fair" held on September 5-8, 1905, in Brookville, Pennsylvania. The poster features a colorful illustration of an equestrian event, with riders and horses in dynamic poses, set against a backdrop of trees and a blue sky. The text highlights the fair's attractions, including a Barney Demarest equestrian show and $12,000 in purses and premiums. The event is organized by the Jefferson County Agricultural and Driving Park Association, and the lower portion of the poster lists the program of classes and purses for the fair. The poster is framed in wood and shows some signs of age, adding to its historical charm.

What You’ll See at the Jefferson County History Center

This museum is a treasure trove of exhibits that beautifully depict the rich history of Jefferson County and prehistoric western Pennsylvania.

A historically recreated parlor room at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania. The room features ornate wallpaper, red curtains with gold trim, and antique furnishings. A grand piano with sheet music, a glass display case with artifacts, a vintage wood stove, and a small organ are prominently displayed. Portraits adorn the walls, and a dress mannequin wearing a period costume stands beside the organ. The seating includes a cream-colored upholstered sofa and matching chairs, with a doll and other period items placed around the room. The setting reflects the elegance of a 19th-century parlor.

One of the standout exhibits is the Paleo-Indian life display.

An exhibit at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, featuring a detailed diorama of a Native American roundhouse. The model shows a typical family dwelling at the Fishbasket site in Clarion County around 1100 AD. The roundhouse is constructed with a framework of poles covered with bark, depicting daily life activities inside and around the structure. Miniature figures are shown performing various tasks, such as cooking and tending to children. An informational panel below the diorama explains the use of post patterns to determine prehistoric settlement patterns, the construction methods of wigwams and roundhouses, and their usage for food storage and other daily functions. The exhibit emphasizes the historical and cultural significance of these structures in the region.

This section of the museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the earliest inhabitants of the region.

An exhibit at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, focusing on petroglyphs. The display features an illustrated panel describing the creation and significance of petroglyphs, which are rock carvings made by pecking and abrading the rock with harder stones. It explains that these carvings often depict animals, birds, people, and objects with spiritual or mythological meanings. The panel highlights the petroglyphs at Parkers Landing along the Allegheny River, believed to have been made within the last 1000 years.

The Stones and Bones exhibit takes a look at the paleontological record of the area.

A paleontology exhibit at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania. The display features a large fossil skeleton of a prehistoric creature, prominently showcased on a circular platform in the center of the room. The background includes informational panels on various time periods, mass extinctions, and specific prehistoric eras like the Permian. Additional exhibits, such as a fossilized skull labeled "No Dinosaurs" and a display of a Seymouria fossil, provide educational content about the prehistoric life that once inhabited the region. The room is well-lit with natural light from a large window and artificial lighting highlighting the exhibits. A potted plant and a computer workstation are also present, adding to the modern museum setting.

Moving forward in time, the Living on the Land exhibit showcases the pioneering industries that shaped the region.

An exhibit at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, titled "The Settlers' Lot: Our Pioneers." The display provides detailed information about the construction of log cabins and structures by early settlers. It features an illustration of a pioneer log cabin and descriptions of their characteristics, including small size, horizontal round logs, dirt floors, and roofs supported by ridgepoles. The exhibit also shows various types of corner notching used in log construction, such as "V" notch, 1/2 dovetail, square, and saddle notches. Additionally, it includes a photograph of a historic log house in Conneaut, PA, and a quote by geographer Terry Jordan on the importance of log construction. The bottom section explains how historical knowledge about these structures is obtained, highlighting the work of researcher Tom Brandon.

From farming to lumbering to mining to manufacturing, this exhibit highlights the hard work and ingenuity of the early settlers.

An exhibit at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, titled "Clear Cuts & Conservation." The display features historical logging tools such as axes and saws, mounted on the wall. The exhibit poses the question, "Did our pioneers come to timber or to farm?" and invites visitors to consider both perspectives. It includes information about the pioneers of logging, with photographs and descriptions of notable figures and logging activities. The exhibit highlights the methods used in timber rafting and the construction of bracket dams. Historical images and text provide context about the logging industry and its impact on the region, showcasing the tools and techniques used by early loggers.

A particularly unique highlight is the Twyford motorcar exhibit.

An exhibit at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, featuring the Twyford Motorcar. The car is showcased in a vibrant blue with yellow wheels and detailing, and it is positioned prominently in the display area. The informational panel behind the vehicle describes the Twyford Motorcar as the world's first four-wheel-drive automobile. Additional exhibits surrounding the car include a propeller from a plane flown by Lincoln Beachey and various historical artifacts. The room is well-lit, with natural light streaming through a large arched window, highlighting the significance of this pioneering vehicle in automotive history.

Known as “the world’s first four-wheel-drive vehicle”, the Twyford motorcar represents a significant milestone in automotive history.

An informational display at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, detailing the history of the Twyford Motorcar. Titled "The Twyford Motorcar: The World's First Four-Wheel Drive Vehicle," the panel explains that the Twyford Motorcar was a highlight of the 1905 Buffalo Automobile Show. Despite initial enthusiasm and a production facility in Brookville, the company faced engineering issues and financial difficulties, leading to its closure after building only five cars. The Twyford Motorcar is recognized as the first car with four-wheel drive and power steering. The display includes historical photographs of the vehicle and the factory workers, as well as a replica of the Twyford, built by William McCracken of Richardsville. An inset explains the importance of patents as primary sources for historical information.

Train lovers will be delighted by the Bowdish Model Railroad exhibit.

A detailed model railroad display at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania. The exhibit features a vibrant miniature town with various buildings, vehicles, and a Ferris wheel. A train labeled "Brookville RR" is seen passing through tunnels and over bridges in a mountainous, forested landscape. The background is painted with a scenic view of rolling hills, trees, and a river, showcasing the beauty of western Pennsylvania. A hot air balloon floats above the scene, adding a whimsical touch to the intricate and colorful model.

The attention to detail in the miniature buildings, people, and Jefferson County landmarks is truly impressive, making it a favorite among visitors of all ages.

A close-up view of the model railroad display at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania. The scene features a detailed miniature town with a clock tower, a carousel, and various buildings. The "Brookville RR" train is shown crossing an elevated track above the town, with additional trains passing through tunnels in the surrounding green, mountainous landscape. The streets are lined with vintage vehicles, and the intricate details of the model create a lively and nostalgic atmosphere. The vibrant colors and meticulous craftsmanship highlight the historical and cultural significance of the exhibit.

The center celebrates the remarkable career of Abbie Neal, a country and western music star who hailed from Jefferson County.

The exhibit features memorabilia of Abbie Neal & Her Ranch Girls, highlighting Baxter's Country-Western Star. The display includes a white cowboy hat, a green fringed jacket with matching scarf, and a photograph of Abbie Neal with her famous fiddle. The exhibit also mentions her early achievements, including winning a national championship at age 10 and being a TV cowgirl of the 1950s. A vinyl record and a poster of Abbie Neal & Her Ranch Girls Band are also showcased, along with historical details about her radio and TV appearances.

Another fascinating aspect of the Jefferson County History Center is the exhibit dedicated to the 105th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment, also known as the Wildcats.

A historical plaque at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, detailing the history of the 105th Pennsylvania Volunteers, also known as the Wildcat Regiment. The plaque outlines the regiment's formation in September 1861, primarily from Jefferson, Clarion, and Clearfield counties. It lists key figures, including Colonels Amor A. McKnight, William W. Corbett, Calvin A. Craig, and James Miller, along with Lieutenant Colonels and Majors. The plaque highlights the regiment's notable engagements during the Civil War, such as the battles of Fair Oaks, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and the Wilderness. It mentions their re-enlistment at Brandy Station and subsequent battles until their muster out in July 1865. The text includes casualty figures and the regiment's honors, such as First Lieutenant Alexander H. Mitchell receiving the Medal of Honor for capturing a Confederate flag at Spotsylvania. An eagle insignia is depicted at the top of the plaque.

This regiment played a crucial role in the Civil War, and the exhibit honors their service and sacrifices.

A historical display at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, featuring information about Col. Armor A. McKnight (1832-1863). The display includes a portrait of Col. McKnight in a wooden frame. The text explains that Col. McKnight led the 105th Pennsylvania Regiment (Wildcats) and died at the Battle of Chancellorsville in May 1863, two weeks before his scheduled promotion to Brigadier General. The background of the display is a dark red color, highlighting the portrait and the informative text.

Brookville resident Amor A. McKnight, the first Colonel and founder of the 105th PA Volunteers, is prominently featured.

A portrait of Col. Armor A. McKnight displayed at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania. The painting is framed in a wooden frame and shows Col. McKnight in his military uniform. The portrait is set against a backdrop of ornate wallpaper with red curtains trimmed in gold. Below the portrait is an antique gramophone with a large horn and several cylinder records, adding a historical ambiance to the display. The lighting above the portrait highlights the details of Col. McKnight's image and the surrounding decor.

The display includes photographs, personal artifacts, and detailed accounts of the regiment’s battles and campaigns.

A display at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, featuring historical photographs of Colonel Amor McKnight and Colonel James Miller. The left photograph shows Colonel Amor McKnight in his military uniform, with his signature and "105th Pa. Vols." captioned below. The right photograph depicts Colonel James Miller, also with his signature and "Co. K, 105th Pa Vols." labeled beneath. Both images are sepia-toned and provide a glimpse into the historical figures associated with the 105th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment, also known as the Wildcat Division.

Perhaps the most fascinating exhibit related to the 105th PA Volunteers is Bob, the taxidermied wildcat, who served as the beloved mascot for the regiment during the Civil War.

A taxidermy wildcat displayed in a wooden and glass case at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania. The wildcat is labeled as the "Artifact of the Month," and it is presented on a bed of gray fabric. The exhibit provides historical information about the wildcat and its significance to Jefferson County history. The case is well-lit, highlighting the preserved details of the wildcat, including its fur and facial features.

He is said to have been carried into battle on a pole, alongside the regimental colors, symbolizing the spirit and bravery of the regiment.

A plaque at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, providing information about "Bob the Wildcat." The plaque states that the wildcat was the mascot of Company E, 105th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers during the Civil War. It mentions that the mascot was carried at the head of the regiment alongside the regiment flag. The plaque notes that the wildcat was presented by Ella S. Bankert. The background includes a partial view of the taxidermy wildcat's paw, adding context to the exhibit.

The museum is well-organized, with each exhibit flowing seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive narrative of the region’s past.

An informative display at the Jefferson County History Center in Brookville, Pennsylvania, detailing the history of the Brookville Manufacturing Company. The display describes the company's organization in June 1892, listing its directors and the initial capital stock of $25,000. It highlights the construction of the factory, which was completed in November 1892, and its operation, producing 250 wagons per year. The exhibit notes the factory's closure in 1918 due to the rise of the automobile industry. Historical photos of the original building, employees, and advertisements for Brookville wagons are included. Additionally, the display covers a significant fire in 1932 that caused extensive damage, emphasizing the impact of the event on the local industry.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor passing through Brookville, the Jefferson County History Center offers an enriching tour of the county’s colorful past, and serves as a reminder of the foundations upon which modern-day Jefferson County is built.

A replica of the interior of a log cabin at the Jefferson County HIstory Center.

Nearby Attractions

Punxsutawney Phil is the most famous groundhog in Pennsylvania, and quite possibly in the entire world!

A collage of four photos related to Punxsutawney Phil, taken in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. The top left photo shows a statue of Punxsutawney Phil in a tuxedo and top hat, standing outside a building with a sign that reads "Phil's Burrow." The top right photo features two Punxsutawney Phil-themed T-shirts on display; one shirt has an illustration of a groundhog on a motorcycle with the text "Punxsutawney PA Groundhog Day," and the other reads "Hey, Yinz Guys... There Ain't No 'S' in Groundhog Day!" The bottom left photo captures the stage at Gobbler's Knob, the site of the annual Groundhog Day ceremony, with a sign that says "Home of Punxsutawney Phil." The bottom right photo is a close-up of Punxsutawney Phil standing upright in his habitat, showcasing his alert and curious expression.

And while we think of Phil every February 2nd, when he makes his famous weather prediction of either an early spring or six more weeks of winter, you can visit him any time of year in his hometown in Jefferson County.

A photo of a large mural in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, welcoming visitors to the town. The mural features the text "Welcome to Punxsutawney, PA. Weather Capital of the World" in bold, colorful letters. At the center of the mural is an illustration of Punxsutawney Phil, the famous weather-predicting groundhog, wearing a top hat and tuxedo, sitting on a tree stump. The background includes a scenic landscape with trees, flowers, and mountains under a bright sky with clouds. The mural is painted on the side of a building, adding a vibrant and welcoming touch to the town.

Scripture Rocks Heritage Park in Jefferson County is a 4.5-acre natural area that is home to 65 boulders engraved by Douglas M. Stahlman between 1910 and 1913, as part of his personal religious calling.

A collage of four photos from Scripture Rocks Heritage Park in Jefferson County, Pennsylvania. The top left image features the entrance sign welcoming visitors to the park. The top right image shows a rock with the word "HOPE" engraved on it, surrounded by lush vegetation. The bottom left image displays a large rock with the word "FAITH" inscribed, highlighting the intricate carvings by Douglas M. Stahlman. The bottom right image captures a serene gravel trail winding through the forest, flanked by vibrant green ferns and tall trees.

Housed in a former Cadillac dealership in Brookville, the Greenberg Cadillac Museum displays more than 80 Cadillacs, spanning every model group and decade, making it the largest collection of Cadillacs in the world!

A collage of four photos taken at the Greenberg Cadillac Museum in Jefferson County, PA. The top left photo features a vibrant red 1959 Cadillac with other vintage cars in the background. The top right photo shows a lineup of 1970s Cadillacs, including models in brown, beige, and white. The bottom left photo displays a row of vintage Cadillacs, including a maroon model with its hood open, alongside other cars in gray and blue. The bottom right photo showcases various classic Cadillacs with distinctive chrome detailing, including a silver model from the late 1950s, all arranged on a checkered floor in a well-lit museum setting.

Beartown Rocks in Jefferson County features an exceptional scenic overlook perched high atop a “rock city” dating back to the last Ice Age!

The scenic overlook platform at Beartown Rocks in the Clear Creek State Forest is perched atop a gigantic rock formation.

Find even more great spots to explore in Jefferson County and all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!

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