Venango

Discover Venango County, Pennsylvania — a scenic 675-square-mile region where American history flows as deeply as its rivers. Anchored by the cities of Franklin and Oil City, this captivating destination is home to rolling countryside, charming boroughs, and the legendary Oil Heritage Region, known as the "valley that changed the world."

Established in 1800, Venango County played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution in America. It's where Edwin L. Drake drilled the world's first commercial oil well in Titusville in 1859 — igniting a global energy era. Explore blast furnace ruins, restored oil derricks, and museums that tell the tale of iron, oil, and innovation.

Bike, hike, or paddle your way through lush trails and heritage corridors dotted with interpretive sites and preserved landmarks. From Freedom Falls to Rockland Furnace, outdoor explorers and history buffs alike will find plenty to uncover.

  • Franklin, the county seat, boasts a beautifully preserved courthouse (built in 1865) and streets lined with 19th-century charm.
  • Oil City, once acquired from Seneca Chief Cornplanter, is a river town steeped in a rich petroleum legacy, featuring galleries and distinctive architecture.

Whether you're tracing the roots of the U.S. energy industry, exploring vibrant towns, or immersing yourself in outdoor beauty, Venango County offers a truly unforgettable Pennsylvania experience.

Venango County

Museums

The collection of is showcased along with a wide range of antiques that have either musical or local significance. Lighting is provided by the DeBences' collection of over 40 Tiffany-style hanging lamps. Many of the instruments in the collection are very rare. The Berry-Wood A.O.W.
The mission of the Venango Museum of Arts, Science, and Industry is to preserve and conserve its holdings, as well as the beautiful Beaux Arts building it occupies, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
1910 was a prosperous year for Franklin and included the building of the National Guard Armory overlooking French Creek.