The combination of tumbling water and plentiful forests led to the creation of Falls City in 1868. Water power ran saw and grist mills as well as factories that tanned hides and made spokes for wagons, pulp for paper, barrels, and chairs. After Falls City became Ohiopyle in 1891, the Youghiogheny River drove turbines that supplied citizens with electricity. When the railroad first came to town in 1871, it connected local industries to markets, and soon passenger trains from Cumberland and Pittsburgh brought thousands of tourists to see the falls. The Ferncliff Hotel, Ohiopyle House, and Ranier Park offered forest trails, music and dancing, bowling, and even a carousel.

Photo: Bradley Owen

Photo: Bradley Owen