Lawrence

Lawrence County in Western Pennsylvania offers a tranquil respite to those escaping the urban confines of city living. Located 45 miles north of Pittsburgh and 80 miles southeast of Cleveland, Ohio, the county is proud of its diverse cultural heritage, quaint villages, scenic beauty, and abundant community activities. Two sects of old-order Amish, living and working as their ancestors did 400 years ago, reside in the area, making the sight of horse-drawn buggies on major roads and highways not unusual. Adding to the diversity are the descendants of many immigrants who flocked to Lawrence County in the early part of the Twentieth Century. 

Restaurants offering the cuisine of the Italian, Polish, Middle Eastern, Slovenian, and Irish cultures are located here, in addition to many historical museums plus a genealogical research facility dedicated to locating the ancestry of many Pennsylvanians. At one time, more fireworks were manufactured in Lawrence County than in any other part of the United States. Two fireworks display companies are still located in the community. Quaint villages offering craft, specialty, and antique shopping abound. 

Small-town outlets and art galleries, not usually found in larger malls, also dominate the friendly atmosphere. In addition to shopping, the rural countryside's scenic beauty provides relaxation not found in metropolitan communities. Intermingled with lush farmlands are hiking trails, rivers for fishing and canoeing, two historic covered bridges, a world-class white water stream, plus a state park containing house-sized boulders created by the meltwater of the last glacial age. Lastly, festivals and community events celebrating the area's heritage provide yearly entertainment. Horse and automobile shows, holiday celebrations, arts and crafts, fireworks festivals, quilt auctions, a county fair, community theater productions, and golf tournaments are just some of the activities offered here.