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Tyrone, Pennsylvania
Tyrone, Pennsylvania
from Wikipedia

Tyrone is a borough in Blair County, Pennsylvania, United States, located 15 miles (24 km) northeast of Altoona, on the Little Juniata River. Tyrone was of considerable commercial importance in the twentieth century. It was an outlet for the Clearfield coal fields and was noted for manufacturing paper products. There were planing mills and chemical and candy factories. In 1900, 5,847 people lived here; in 1910, 7,176; and in 1940, 8,845 people resided here. The population was 5,477 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Altoona, PA Metropolitan Statistical Area. It was named after County Tyrone in Ireland.[4]

Key Information

Located along the main lines of the Norfolk Southern and Nittany and Bald Eagle railroads, and U.S. Route 220, Pennsylvania Route 453, and Interstate 99 highways, Tyrone was at one time known as "The Hub of the Highways". In those days, four railroads [Pennsylvania, Tyrone and Clearfield, Tyrone and Lock Haven, Lewisburg, and Tyrone] and three main highways [US-220, PA-350, PA-453] converged there.

History

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The Tyrone Borough Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1993.[5]

Circus Train Derailment

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On May 30, 1893, a train carrying employees and animals belonging to the Walter L. Main Circus derailed at an embankment resulting in the deaths of five circus employees, plus many animal casualties. Many unharmed animals escaped from the wreck and were reported across the countryside for months after the wreck, most notably, a woman who escaped a Bengal tiger, but lost her cow in the attack. A memorial now stands at the site.[6]

Tornado

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On June 2, 1998, an F1 tornado moved southeast along Pennsylvania Route 453 northwest of Tyrone. Significant tree damage was noted in several locations along a four-mile path, beginning approximately five miles northwest of Tyrone. No significant damage was reported in Tyrone, although eyewitnesses reported seeing clouds rotating as they crossed the city. This tornado was part of the 1998 Eastern Tornado Outbreak. [7]

Industry

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The largest employers in Tyrone are the Tyrone Area School District and the Tyrone Hospital. Tyrone is also the home to American Eagle Paper Mills[8] and Gardners Candies. Founded in 1897, Gardners Candies has ten retail stores in the area and is known regionally for its peanut butter meltaway candy.[9]

Geography

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According to the United States Census Bureau, the borough has a total area of 2.0 square miles (5.2 km2), all land.

Tyrone is situated in the Bald Eagle Valley at the base of Bald Eagle Mountain along Bald Eagle Creek at the Little Juniata River water gap.

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note
1860741
18701,840148.3%
18802,67845.5%
18904,70575.7%
19005,84724.3%
19107,17622.7%
19209,08426.6%
19309,042−0.5%
19408,845−2.2%
19508,214−7.1%
19607,792−5.1%
19707,072−9.2%
19806,346−10.3%
19905,743−9.5%
20005,528−3.7%
20105,477−0.9%
20205,4800.1%
U.S. Decennial Census[10]

As of the census[11] of 2010, there were 5,477 people, 2,275 households, and 1,422 families residing in the borough. The population density was 2,711.4 inhabitants per square mile (1,046.9/km2). There were 2,472 housing units at an average density of 1,223.8 per square mile (472.5/km2). The racial makeup of the borough was 97.3% White, 0.7% Black or African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.0% of the population.

There were 2,275 households, out of which 30.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.0% were married couples living together, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, 14.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.5% were non-families. 33.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.8% had someone who was 65 years or older living alone. The average household size was 2.34, and the average family size was 2.93.

In the borough, the population was spread out, with 22.6% under 18, 8.2% from 18 to 24, 25.6% from 25 to 44, 25.3% from 45 to 64, and 18.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.8 males. For every 100 females aged 18 and over, there were 85.8 males.

The median income for a household in the borough was $34,850, and the median income for a family was $43,851. The per capita income for the borough was $18,664. About 10.7% of families and 14.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 23.0% of those under age 18 and 10.9% of those aged 65 or over.

John Deere Combine harvesters being transported by railway on flatcars in Tyrone, Pennsylvania.

Transportation

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Amtrak’s Pennsylvanian stops at the Tyrone station, which has one daily train in each direction. Greyhound buses going between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia also make a stop in Tyrone. The Nittany and Bald Eagle Railroad interchanges with Norfolk Southern just south of the station. Three major highways, U.S. Route 220, Pennsylvania Route 453, and Interstate 99 all pass through the town. The closest commercial airport to Tyrone is State College Regional Airport, located 27.5 miles away.

Education

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The school district is the Tyrone Area School District.[12]

Film

[edit]

In October 2009, several scenes for the Tony Scott film Unstoppable (with Denzel Washington, Chris Pine, and Rosario Dawson) were filmed in and around Tyrone, mostly at the 14th street crossing and the north end of the rail yard. Several hundred residents were employed as background extras. The film was released on November 12, 2010.

Tyrone Historic Downtown 2012

Media

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Since 1887, the Tyrone Daily Herald has been the newspaper of record for Tyrone. WTRN, the local radio station in Tyrone, has been on the air since 1955, when Tyrone resident Cary Simpson founded it. The station broadcasts at 1340 AM and simulcasts over 100.7 FM, with a format of adult contemporary music, local news, and high school sports.

Notable people

[edit]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Tyrone is a in Blair County, central , , situated approximately 15 miles northeast of Altoona along the Little Juniata River. As of the 2023 5-year estimates, the has a of 5,421 and covers a land area of about 2 square miles, resulting in a of 2,664 people per square mile. It forms part of the Altoona, PA Metropolitan Statistical Area, a region historically tied to railroading and . Originally settled in the mid-19th century amid railroad expansion, Tyrone was incorporated as a on July 27, 1857, from portions of Snyder , with an initial population of around 700. The community underwent several name changes—beginning as Eagleville, then Shorbsville, and briefly Tyrone City in 1852—before adopting its current name upon incorporation, reportedly inspired by in Ireland. Its growth was fueled by the , which established Tyrone as a key transportation hub; by 1900, the population had reached 5,847, peaking at 8,845 in 1940 before stabilizing in the modern era. The adopted a Charter in 1982 to enhance local governance, and its Municipal Building, constructed in 1916, remains a central landmark. Geographically, Tyrone lies at an elevation of about 1,100 feet near the confluence of the Little Juniata River and Creek, contributing to its scenic setting and recreational opportunities such as Reservoir Park and the community pool. The local economy employs 2,727 people, with leading sectors including retail trade (437 workers), educational services (391 workers), and (383 workers) as of 2023; the median household income stands at $55,568, with a poverty rate of 13.9%. is provided by the Tyrone Area School District, serving the borough and surrounding townships, while notable employers include Gardner's Candies and Chicago Rivet & Machine Co. Tyrone maintains a dense suburban character, with most residents owning homes and the community emphasizing family-friendly amenities and historical preservation.

Geography

Location and Topography

Tyrone is a borough in Blair County, Pennsylvania, and forms part of the Altoona Metropolitan Statistical Area, which encompasses all of Blair County. The borough is situated approximately 15 miles northeast of the city of Altoona, placing it within the broader Appalachian Ridge and Valley physiographic province. Its geographic coordinates are roughly 40.676° N latitude and 78.246° W longitude. The community occupies a position along the Little Juniata River, within the scenic Bald Eagle Valley, and rests at the base of Bald Eagle Mountain, contributing to its sheltered valley setting. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, Tyrone covers a total land area of 2.03 square miles, with no incorporated water bodies. The average elevation in the borough is around 1,100 feet above sea level, varying slightly due to the undulating terrain near the river and mountain base. Surrounding the borough are diverse natural features, including expansive forested areas characteristic of the region's mixed hardwood stands and proximity to larger protected lands. Tyrone lies near State Forest, which borders adjacent counties and offers extensive woodlands, while Raymond B. Winter State Park is accessible about 60 miles to the east in Union County, providing additional opportunities for exploration of the Ridge and Valley landscape.

Climate

Tyrone, , features a (Köppen Dfb) with distinct seasons, including warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The average annual temperature is approximately 50°F, reflecting the temperate conditions typical of central . This supports a mix of agricultural activities and forested landscapes in the surrounding Blair County area. Summer temperatures peak in , with average highs reaching around 82°F, while winter lows in average about 20°F, often accompanied by freezing conditions. Annual totals approximately 45 inches, distributed relatively evenly across the months, contributing to lush and reliable . Winter snowfall averages about 39 inches, primarily occurring from through , which influences local transportation and . The area's location amid the Appalachian Mountains exposes it to occasional severe weather, such as thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, as the regional topography can enhance storm development and intensity. These events, though not frequent, underscore the need for preparedness in this inland setting.

History

Founding and Early Settlement

The settlement of Tyrone began on Christmas Day, 1850, when Jacob Burley and his family established the area's first permanent residence in a modest story-and-a-half frame building that doubled as a dwelling and general store, located at what is now the site of Study's business block. This pioneer effort marked the initial human habitation in a previously undeveloped wilderness along the Little Bald Eagle Creek, where the valley's geography provided fertile ground for early agriculture and resource extraction. Burley, a merchant, partnered with Rev. John Stewart to expand local commerce, including the operation of lumber yards that capitalized on the surrounding forests. Originally known as Eagleville in reference to the nearby Little Bald Eagle Creek, the community was soon renamed Shorbsville to honor the Lyon, Shorb & Company, a key early business interest in the area. By 1852, it adopted the name Tyrone City, drawing from in Ireland to reflect the Irish heritage of many settlers who were among the pioneers. This naming choice underscored the influence of Irish immigrants, who were increasingly drawn to central Pennsylvania's emerging opportunities in resource-based trades during the mid-19th century. On July 27, 1857, the growing village was incorporated as the of Tyrone by court order, with an initial population of approximately 700 residents and forming part of Snyder Township. Early growth was propelled by the lumber trade, nascent iron production, and the anticipated arrival of railroads, including the Pennsylvania Railroad's extensions that promised to connect the isolated to broader markets. These industries fostered the construction of additional homes and merchant establishments, laying the foundation for Tyrone's expansion as a hub in Blair County.

Major Historical Events

One of the most tragic incidents in Tyrone's history occurred on May 30, 1893, when the Walter L. Main Circus train derailed at McCann's Crossing while traveling from Houtzdale to Lewistown on the Tyrone and Clearfield Railroad. The derailment, which happened around 5:30 a.m., was caused by a combination of the train's excessive length, human error, and insufficient braking power, leading it to plummet down a 30-foot embankment after the bridge collapsed under the weight. Five crew members, including engineer "Red" Cresswell, were killed, and numerous circus animals perished, with others escaping into the surrounding woods; local residents quickly mobilized to provide aid, capturing escaped animals and assisting the injured in a display of community solidarity. The aftermath included the burial of animal remains in a mass grave near the site, and the event left a lasting mark on Tyrone's collective memory, commemorated annually. Over a century later, on June 2, 1998, an F1 touched down northwest of Tyrone in northern Blair County, moving southeast along Route 453 for approximately 4 miles. With peak winds estimated at 90 mph, the caused significant , primarily snapping and uprooting trees in dense forested areas, but resulted in no fatalities or injuries. This event was part of a larger outbreak of 37 tornadoes across Pennsylvania, , and that day. In 1993, the Tyrone Borough Historic District was added to the on January 21, recognizing its architectural and commercial significance spanning from 1850 to 1949. The district, roughly bounded by West 14th Street, Logan Avenue, Bald Eagle Avenue, the Little Juniata River, West 8th Street, and Jefferson Avenue, encompasses 349 contributing buildings that exemplify Late Victorian and Late 19th- and 20th-Century Revival styles, including two- to three-story brick commercial blocks and residential structures that preserve the borough's Victorian-era heritage. Tyrone's reached its historical peak of 8,845 residents in , fueled by the railroad industry's prominence in the region. However, by 1950, the figure had declined to 8,200—a 7.3% drop—reflecting broader industrial shifts, particularly the transition from steam to diesel locomotives after , which reduced employment in rail-dependent communities like Tyrone. This trend continued, contributing to ongoing population decreases tied to in central Pennsylvania's transportation sector.

Demographics

Tyrone's population experienced robust growth during the early , driven by industrial expansion, before entering a period of prolonged decline. The 1900 U.S. recorded 5,847 residents, which rose to 7,176 by 1910 and peaked at 8,845 in 1940. Following this peak, the population began to contract amid broader regional shifts. The 2010 U.S. counted 5,477 residents, a significant drop from the mid-century high, and this figure edged slightly higher to 5,480 by the 2020 . The most recent estimate places the population at 5,421 in 2023, based on the 5-year estimates.
YearPopulation
19005,847
19107,176
19408,845
20105,477
20205,480
2023 (est.)5,421
Projections indicate continued slow decline, at an average annual rate of -0.4%. This trend reflects , which reduced jobs in the region, and , as residents moved to nearby urban centers within the Altoona . Geographic isolation has further limited in-migration, contributing to overall stagnation.

Socioeconomic Characteristics

Tyrone's residents are predominantly of European descent, with the 2020 United States Census reporting a racial composition of 93.6% White, 3.5% two or more races, 0.9% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and smaller percentages for other groups; Hispanic or Latino individuals of any race comprised 1.4% of the population. The borough exhibits limited ethnic diversity, reflecting broader patterns in rural central Pennsylvania communities. Gender distribution is nearly balanced, with approximately 50.4% male and 49.6% female residents. Nearly all residents are U.S. citizens, with a citizenship rate of 100%, underscoring the borough's homogeneity in nativity status. The foreign-born population is minimal at 0.314%, or about 17 individuals, primarily from and based on available migration patterns. This low level of immigration contributes to a stable cultural fabric centered on long-term local residency. The median age is 40.3 years as of 2023. Economic conditions in Tyrone indicate modest living standards, with the median household income recorded at $34,850 according to the 2010 , increasing to $55,568 by 2023 estimates—a growth reflecting regional industrial recovery and adjustments. Per capita income was $18,664 in 2010, highlighting challenges in wage distribution amid a working-class . The overall rate stood at 14.0% in 2010, with 23.0% of those under age 18 affected, a figure that improved slightly to 13.9% by 2023, though remains a concern in family households. These metrics position Tyrone below state averages for income but aligned with similar small boroughs in Blair County. As of 2023, 92.5% of residents aged 25 and older have a or higher.

Economy

Major Industries and Employers

Tyrone's economy has historically transitioned from 19th-century reliance on and iron production, including sawmills and forges that supported early settlement, to contemporary sectors centered on , services, and food production. The dominant industries in Tyrone as of 2023 include retail trade, employing 437 people; educational services, with 391 employed; and , supporting 383 workers. These sectors reflect a service-oriented , bolstered by local institutions and specialized production. Healthcare stands out as a key pillar, primarily through Penn Highlands Tyrone, which provides , surgical services, and emergency treatment to the community and surrounding areas. Manufacturing remains vital, exemplified by American Eagle Paper Mills, a major producer of 100% recycled uncoated paper products that recycles approximately 100,000 tons of annually, and Chicago Rivet & Machine Co., which manufactures custom cold-headed parts and riveting machinery at its Tyrone facility. In food production, longstanding employers include Gardners Candies, founded in 1897 and known for handcrafted chocolates and confections, and DelGrosso Foods, which operates a facility in Tyrone for pasta sauces and related products as part of its family-owned operations tracing back to 1914. The Tyrone Area School District serves as the largest public-sector employer, encompassing educational services and contributing significantly to the local workforce through teaching, administrative, and support roles across its schools.

Recent Economic Developments

In 2025, DelGrosso Foods, a key player in Tyrone's food production sector, received a $2.25 million low-interest loan from the Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) through the Altoona-Blair County Development Corporation to acquire and expand a 450,000-square-foot warehouse facility. This 15-year financing at 4.25% interest is projected to create three new full-time jobs while retaining 181 existing positions, supporting the company's growth amid ongoing for its and condiment products. That same year, Tyrone-based MAG Industries announced a significant pullback from its operations, shutting down its Delta 8 and distribution facility in Buckhannon and eliminating 20 jobs there due to shifting market conditions, integration challenges with a new $2 million computer system, and overall financial losses at the site. The decision, reversing a 2023 expansion into the state, has no reported job losses in Tyrone but positions the company— which employs over 80 people, with more than 75% at its local headquarters—to prioritize and potentially create additional careers in the . Local businesses in Tyrone faced ongoing challenges from inflation in 2023, particularly retailers dealing with volatile food costs that impacted meat products, takeout supplies, and other essentials, prompting adaptations like product substitutions to maintain affordability. These pressures were part of broader regional trends, as evidenced by PIDA's approval of over $6.3 million in loans across , Bucks, and Franklin Counties in 2025, fostering more than $42.9 million in private and supporting at least 271 jobs through targeted expansions.

Government and Community

Local Government Structure

Tyrone operates as a under the Borough Code, which outlines its municipal governance framework as detailed in Title 8 of the Consolidated Statutes. The structure features an elected serving as the chief executive and president of the , alongside a seven-member elected , with all positions holding four-year terms commencing on the first Monday of January following . Council meetings occur on the second Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m., with agendas and minutes made publicly available to promote transparency. As of November 2025, the mayor is William Latchford, who has held the position for multiple terms and presides over council proceedings. The current council members are David Snyder (vice president), Robert Dollar, Sarah Dane Hunter, Ken Patterson, Tammy Snyder Wills, and William Wiser III. The seventh seat is vacant following the of Rob Poust in September 2025. The holds legislative authority, enacting ordinances on matters such as , public safety, and utilities management, while the enforces these laws and can actions subject to override. A manager, appointed by the , oversees daily operations including budgeting, staffing, and ordinance enforcement, reporting directly to the . Following the of the previous manager in September 2025, the position is currently managed on an basis by Executive Assistant Kimberly Gurekovich. Key responsibilities encompass maintaining public infrastructure, regulating through ordinances, and ensuring public safety via coordinated departments. Administrative departments support these functions, including the Police Department, which employs a chief, seven full-time officers, and part-time personnel to handle and . The Highway Department, functioning as , manages the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of borough streets, sidewalks, and related facilities. Additionally, the Code Enforcement Department oversees compliance, building permits, property maintenance, and land development reviews. The Water Department operates the filtration plant and reservoir to provide utility services. In , the borough plays a supportive role through its and mechanisms, particularly in upholding the integrity of the , designated on the in 1993, which encompasses roughly bounded areas along key streets and includes over 500 contributing structures from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This designation aids the borough in regulating alterations to preserve architectural and historical significance within the district.

Public Services and Infrastructure

Tyrone's primary healthcare provider is Penn Highlands Tyrone, a critical access located at 187 Hospital Drive, which offers emergency care, inpatient services, and outpatient clinics as part of the nine-hospital Penn Highlands Healthcare system. Acquired by the system in 2020, the facility includes a 24-hour equipped to handle serious illnesses and injuries, supported by affiliated clinicians and diagnostic services. Public safety in Tyrone is maintained by the Tyrone Borough Police Department, which operates with seven full-time officers, including a chief, and a pool of part-time personnel trained in specialized areas such as bike patrol and child car seat installation. The department emphasizes community-oriented policing and provides resources like secure medication disposal boxes at the municipal building and police station, with emergencies handled through Blair County's 911 system. Fire protection is delivered by volunteer companies, primarily Neptune Volunteer Fire Company and Hookies Fire Company (also known as Blazing Arrow Hook & Ladder Company), which respond to incidents within the borough and surrounding areas, logging hundreds of calls annually. Emergency medical services are coordinated through the Tyrone substation of the Authority Medical Emergency Dispatch (AMED), offering transport and integration with countywide response protocols. The borough's utilities encompass water, sewer, and waste management systems serving its 2-square-mile land area. The Water Department operates a filtration plant below the municipal reservoir along Route 453, ensuring potable water supply and quality monitoring compliant with state standards. Sewer services are managed from the Wastewater Treatment Plant on Route 453, treating domestic and industrial wastewater under Pennsylvania's Solid Waste Management Act. Waste handling includes curbside yard waste collection by the Highway Department during seasonal periods (April-May and October-November) and enforcement of borough ordinances for solid waste disposal to promote environmental safety. Recreational infrastructure supports health and community well-being through parks managed under borough oversight, including Reservoir Park, which features open spaces and access points for outdoor activities. The area along the Little Juniata River provides trail connections to the broader Water Trail, a 142-mile paddling and route starting near Tyrone, with segments suitable for and nature observation within the 2-square-mile borough boundaries.

Transportation

Roadways and Highways

Tyrone's primary north-south transportation corridor is (I-99), which overlays much of the former alignment of through the borough and serves as the main artery for regional travel. This route provides direct connections northward to near Bellefonte and southward toward the (Interstate 70/76) near , facilitating efficient access to broader interstate networks. The I-99 interchange at Pennsylvania Route 453 (exit 48) offers primary access to the borough, with the highway bypassing downtown to minimize local congestion. Pennsylvania Route 453 traverses the heart of Tyrone, entering from the north via the I-99 interchange and proceeding southward through the downtown area along before continuing toward Bald Eagle State Forest. This supports local connectivity and recreational access to the forest, with recent maintenance including a 2025 project to replace a structure over Sink Run on , which involved temporary detours in the downtown section from June to September. The borough's local street network, including those in the historic downtown district, is maintained by the Tyrone Borough Highway Department, which handles construction, repairs, , and ice control on municipal roads. Situated in the narrow Valley amid mountainous terrain, these streets face ongoing maintenance challenges such as poor soil infiltration, flooding, and exacerbated by steep slopes and heavy rainfall. PennDOT's oversees state routes in the area, conducting regular operations like crack sealing on nearby roads such as Sinking Valley Road to address pavement deterioration. These roadways significantly bolster local commerce by accommodating truck routes that support industrial transport, with I-99 designated as a key freight corridor that diverts heavy vehicles from older local streets not suited for high-volume traffic. Recent initiatives, including expanded truck parking facilities along I-99 in Blair County, enhance efficiency for regional industries like and distribution.

Rail and Public Transit

Tyrone is served by 's Pennsylvanian route, which provides daily passenger rail service stopping at the Tyrone Station located at and West 10th Street. The train operates once per day in each direction, connecting Tyrone to in the west and in the east via intermediate stops including Altoona, Harrisburg, and . This service facilitates regional travel for commuters and visitors, with the station featuring a platform and shelter but no enclosed building. Freight rail operations in Tyrone are primarily handled by , which maintains the mainline through the borough as part of its . The line's history is rooted in the 19th-century expansion of the , which reached Tyrone around 1850 and spurred the area's industrial growth by linking it to coal, iron, and lumber transport networks. , as the successor to the through mergers including in 1999, continues to use Tyrone as an interchange point with the Nittany and Bald Eagle Railroad for freight shipments. Public bus transit in Tyrone is provided through , with a stop at the Tyrone News location on . routes connect Tyrone to nearby Altoona, approximately 15 miles away, and to Harrisburg, the state capital about 100 miles east, offering intercity travel options several times daily. These services extend further to major destinations like and , though schedules are limited compared to rail options. Local public transit within Tyrone remains limited, with no dedicated municipal bus system operating in the borough. However, 's Route 17 (Northern Blair) offers fixed-route bus service linking Tyrone to Altoona via Bellwood, operating on weekdays with multiple daily trips as of 2025. Residents primarily rely on personal vehicles for daily commuting and errands, supplemented by rideshare services and demand-response options from regional providers like .

Education

Public School System

The Tyrone Area School District serves as the primary public education provider for students in Tyrone, Pennsylvania, encompassing grades Pre-K through 12 across three schools: Tyrone Area Elementary School, Tyrone Area Middle School, and Tyrone Area High School. The district covers 167 square miles spanning , Centre, and Counties, with a total enrollment of approximately 1,700 students as of 2025. It emphasizes progressive educational opportunities to foster responsible citizenship and , maintaining instructional costs below the state average while prioritizing collaboration among staff, parents, and the community. The district's curriculum includes focused programs in STEM and athletics, supporting student development through initiatives like the Challenge Program, which awarded $200 prizes to 10 high school students in 2024 for achievements in areas including STEM. Sports programs are prominent, with the Tyrone Golden Eagle Monogram Club co-sponsoring over $10,000 in scholarships for seniors in 2025, recognizing athletic and academic excellence. Tyrone Area High School, which houses grades 9-12 for approximately 511 students in a combined facility with the , received National Blue Ribbon School recognition in 2015 for its overall academic performance. Funding for the district derives primarily from state subsidies (approximately 59% as of 2023-2024) and local taxes (32%), with federal sources making up the remainder, enabling program continuity and facility maintenance. In 2022, the school board approved a $5 million bond to renovate the high school auditorium, enhancing performance and event spaces. The 2025-2026 budget included a increase to address a projected deficit, supported by a beginning general fund balance of $9.8 million, amid concerns over declining enrollment. The district honors its legacy through the Distinguished Award, initiated in 2002; for example, Robin Oliver (class of 1982) received the award in 2009 for her contributions in and . There are no private or charter schools within the , though options are available to residents.

Libraries and Community Education

The Tyrone-Snyder Public Library serves as the central hub for public access to educational resources and in Tyrone, offering a variety of programs tailored to children, families, and adults. Established to foster , the provides free access to books, digital resources, and interactive sessions that promote and . Among its children's offerings, Sensory Storytime sessions cater to young participants with needs, featuring adapted activities like visual aids and calming elements; these programs are offered in the fall, such as in 2025, alongside a dedicated for quiet exploration that has been available since November 2024. The also hosts community-wide events that celebrate its role in local education, such as the 60th Birthday Celebration scheduled for December 4, 2025, which will include special activities and exhibits open to the public from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. For adults, the library facilitates ongoing learning through monthly book clubs on the first at 6:00 p.m. and occasional workshops, including a free three-day for Beginners series aimed at building practical skills. These initiatives emphasize , drawing participants from across Blair County. Adult education opportunities in Tyrone extend beyond the library through accessible regional programs and community centers. Residents can enroll in the Altoona Area Adult Education Program, which provides free classes in high school equivalency (HiSET), learning, math and reading refreshers, and training for Blair County adults seeking or postsecondary advancement. The Northern Blair Senior Center complements these efforts with wellness and enrichment classes, such as exercise and hobby workshops, targeted at older adults to support ongoing education. The library briefly collaborates with the Tyrone Area to extend select programs into informal settings. The Tyrone Area Historical Society further enriches community education by maintaining a free and archives focused on and . Visitors can explore donated artifacts, military records—including details on over 300 Civil War soldiers from Tyrone—and research materials during open hours on Wednesdays and Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. These resources support self-guided learning on topics like Tyrone's architectural heritage and family lineages, promoting historical awareness without formal enrollment.

Culture and Recreation

Festivals and Community Events

Tyrone, Pennsylvania, embraces its Irish heritage and seasonal traditions through a series of annual festivals and community events that unite residents and visitors. These gatherings emphasize cultural roots tied to the borough's naming after in Ireland, while also highlighting local crafts, cuisine, and holiday festivities in the scenic setting. Supported by the borough and organizations like the Tyrone Area Chamber of Commerce, these events promote community engagement and economic vitality. The Tyrone Irish Heritage Festival, held each spring from March 12 to 16, celebrates the town's origins with a multi-day lineup of food vendors, live music, family activities, and cultural demonstrations. The 2025 edition, running Wednesday through Sunday, included a community dinner at the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Gold Rush Race, a 5K/10K event that drew participants to honor Irish traditions amid Tyrone's historic downtown. This festival underscores the borough's enduring connection to its Irish founders, who settled the area in the . In summer, the Hops and Vines Craft Beer, Wine, and Spirits Festival transforms downtown Tyrone into a vibrant tasting venue on June 28, 2025, from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. Nestled against the mountainous backdrop of Central , the event features local and regional vendors offering s, wines, and spirits, alongside live entertainment and food options. Now in its 12th year, it attracts crowds to West 10th Street for an afternoon of sampling and socializing. Winter brings the Yuletyme Celebration from December 4 to 7, 2025, a extravaganza filled with seasonal activities like sampling, a crawl through local businesses, and horse-drawn rides. This event culminates in community , including the annual parade on December 6, where residents gather for festive displays. Complementary traditions include the Letters to Santa program, active from November 18 to December 9, with a dedicated mailbox at City Hotel Park for children's correspondence, often coordinated during parade festivities. Local scout groups frequently participate in these , carrying banners and contributing to the spirit.

Media and Film

The Tyrone Daily Herald has served as the primary local for Tyrone since 1867, providing comprehensive coverage of community news, events, and issues affecting Blair County residents. Published daily, it includes reporting on municipal developments, business updates, and human interest stories that reflect the town's railroad heritage and small-town dynamics. The paper maintains an active online presence through its archives and digital editions, ensuring accessibility for both current subscribers and historical research. WTRN, the local AM radio station operating on 1340 kHz, has been broadcasting community-oriented programming to Tyrone since 1955, when it was founded by Cary Simpson. Under the ownership of Lightner Communications, the station delivers a mix of news, weather updates, local talk shows, and music formats tailored to the region, including coverage of high school sports and emergency alerts. Its "full-service" approach emphasizes hyper-local content, such as interviews with and announcements for gatherings, fostering a sense of connection in the rural Pennsylvania area. Tyrone's rail infrastructure played a key role in the production of the 2010 action-thriller film Unstoppable, directed by and starring , with several scenes filmed in the borough during 2009. The movie utilized the lines passing through Tyrone for authentic train chase sequences, highlighting the area's industrial landscape and drawing local crews and extras. This filming brought temporary economic activity to the community, including accommodations for the production team and increased visibility for Tyrone's transportation heritage. In 2025, local media outlets like the Tyrone Daily Herald continued to provide detailed reporting on key community matters, such as contentious Tyrone Area School District board meetings addressing principal evaluations in November. WTRN complemented this with live broadcasts of high school athletic events, including football and games, keeping listeners engaged with real-time scores and post-game analysis. These efforts underscore the media's role in informing residents about education and recreational developments amid ongoing local challenges.

Notable People

Arts and Entertainment Figures

(1900–1984), born Frederick Malcolm Waring in Tyrone, Pennsylvania, emerged as one of the most influential bandleaders and choral directors of the 20th century. He formed the Waring's Pennsylvanians in the 1920s, a versatile ensemble that blended jazz, pop, and choral elements, achieving widespread fame through radio broadcasts and recordings that popularized close-harmony singing. Waring's innovations in musical arrangement and performance style influenced American entertainment, including collaborations with figures like , and his group performed at major venues and events for over five decades. Beyond music, Waring contributed to household technology as the inventor and promoter of the Waring Blendor, a kitchen appliance he developed in the 1930s that revolutionized blending and mixing in American homes. Ethan Stiefel, born February 13, 1973, in Tyrone, Pennsylvania, is an acclaimed , choreographer, and director whose career spans classical ballet, Broadway, and film. He trained at the and joined the (ABT) as a in 1997, where he excelled in roles across the classical repertoire, including leads in and , earning praise for his technical precision and dramatic intensity. Stiefel's contributions extended to choreography and direction; he co-directed the film Center Stage (2000), which brought ballet to mainstream audiences, and later helmed productions like the Broadway revival of On Your Toes (2016). After retiring from dancing in 2012, he served as artistic director of the American Repertory Ballet from 2018 to 2021, fostering new talent and innovative works in the dance community. Dylan Lane, born July 18, 1977, in Tyrone, Pennsylvania, is a television host known for his engaging presence on game shows. He gained prominence as the host of Chain Reaction on the Game Show Network (GSN) from 2006 to 2007, where his quick wit and energetic style helped revive the word-association format for modern viewers. Lane later hosted Fox's The Moment of Truth (2008–2009), a controversial polygraph-based series that drew significant attention for its high-stakes personal revelations, solidifying his reputation in daytime and primetime entertainment. His work has occasionally intersected with local media features highlighting Tyrone's entertainment heritage.

Military and Public Servants

Tyrone, Pennsylvania, has produced several notable individuals who have served in the military and public sectors, contributing significantly to national defense, government administration, and judicial systems. In the realm of military service, Lieutenant General Vernon E. James (1929–2010), a native of Tyrone, exemplified a distinguished career spanning over 42 years in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. He enlisted in 1946 before graduating high school and rose through every leadership position from platoon leader to commanding general of the 28th Infantry Division, including deployments to Germany and Korea. James commanded the 28th Infantry Division as a major general around 1985 and retired as a lieutenant general after holding key roles in the Pennsylvania National Guard. Another prominent military figure is Commander Christopher P. Trimpey, a 1977 graduate of Tyrone Area High School, who began his service as a Seaman Recruit in the U.S. Navy. Over 20 years, he advanced to Lieutenant Commander through the Limited Duty Officer Program, specializing in fleet operations, carrier strike groups, joint forces, Aegis systems, air defense, space, and electronic warfare; he managed four command centers during combat operations and earned two Meritorious Service Medals, six Navy Commendation Medals, and two Navy Achievement Medals. After retiring from active duty, Trimpey continued in public service as a civil servant with the Department of Defense, serving as Program Manager for Naval Combat Systems at the Naval Sea Systems Command and later as Director of Assessments, Analytics, and Knowledge Management at the Military Sealift Command, where he oversaw programs for 10,000 personnel and 130 ships; his contributions earned the Navy Superior Civilian Service Medal, Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Medal, and the 2017 DoD CIO Cyber and IT Excellence Award. Gary Crowell, another Tyrone native and veteran, received the Bronze Star, , Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and three Presidential Unit Citations for his combat service. Historically, Captain George Stroop (1835–1917), who had deep ties to Tyrone where he published the Tyrone Democrat newspaper from 1872 to 1880 and was interred at Grandview Cemetery, served in the Union Army during the Civil War. Enlisting in 1861 with the 2nd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry and later the 47th Pennsylvania Volunteers, he participated in campaigns in , , , and , including the and battles, and was promoted to captain in 1864. Among public servants, D. Brooks Smith, a 1969 graduate of Tyrone Area High School, built a extensive judicial career beginning as Blair County District Attorney from 1983 to 1984. Appointed to the Blair County Court of Common Pleas in 1984 and serving as Administrative Judge from 1987, he advanced to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania in 1988, becoming Chief Judge in 2001, before his confirmation to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in 2002, where he served as Chief Judge from 2013 to 2020. Smith's work extended to international rule-of-law initiatives in Central and Eastern Europe, including Russia and Bulgaria, and community service with organizations like the Salvation Army and Blair County Legal Services. B. Michael Schaul (1946–2024), born in Tyrone, dedicated his career to state government after earning degrees from Shippensburg University. Joining the Southern Allegheny Commission in 1971, he rose to Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Director of the Governor’s Response Team by 1989, managing Pennsylvania's international business development offices in Tokyo, London, Brussels, and Frankfurt to promote exports and attract investments. Schaul later served on the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority and as a trustee for Shippensburg University and the State System of Higher Education. Haley Sankey, a resident of Tyrone in Blair County, has served as Vice President of the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners since her confirmation on December 15, 2021, with her term set to expire on December 15, 2025. Holding degrees in environmental practice and policy from and project management from Penn State, she teaches in Penn State's Energy and Sustainability Policy Program and focuses on conservation through her role on the commission.

References

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