Pennsylvania’s rich past brings with it some tales of places that no longer exist. In fact, we can find quite a few ghost towns across the state that offer us a unique glimpse into the past. Wehrum, a Pennsylvania ghost town in the western part of the state, was once a thriving coal town. All that remains today of that rich history, however, are the remnants of a few buildings and a cemetery, tucked safely in the woods.
The remains of the former coal town of Wehrum sit in the woods along The Ghost Town Trail, a 46-mile trail that winds through Indiana and Cambria Counties and along a former railroad corridor.
Indiana County Parks
Wehrum isn’t the only ghost town along the trail. However, it was the largest coal town in the area at the beginning of the 20th century. Warren Delano, President Franklin Roosevelt’s uncle, founded and developed the town.
Wikipedia/Public Domain
During its heyday, Wehrum thrived with more than 230 buildings that included homes, a bank, a jail, and a hotel. Coal miners lived in the town with their families and commuted to nearby coal mines for work each day.
Indiana County Parks
Working in the coal mines was not without its risks, which sometimes proved fatal. The worst tragedy occurred when a mine explosion killed 21 miners in 1909.
Indiana County Parks
The coal mines thrived for much of the early 20th century, with the coal gathered from the mines sent to Pittsburgh, Rochester, and Buffalo.
Indiana County Parks
Coal mines in the area were owned by Bethlehem Mines Corporation, which purchased them in 1922. Within seven years, the corporation shut down all of the mines, signaling the beginning of the end of Wehrum.
Wikipedia/Public Domain
Only a few buildings remained in 1934. The homes, made from wood, had been dismantled and the lumber sold. Residents moved elsewhere, and the town simply died off. Today, you can catch a glimpse of the remnants that remain, including the town cemetery, if you wander off of The Ghost Town Trail.
Wikipedia/Public Domain
Stop by the official website of Indiana County Parks to learn more about Wehrum and the Ghost Town Trail.
Wikipedia/Public Domain
Have you heard of this Pennsylvania ghost town? Or have you visited? Share your experience in the comments! Wehrum is just one of Pennsylvania’s many ghost towns. Up for more exploration? Here are seven ghost towns in Pennsylvania you’ll want to visit at your own risk.
Indiana County Parks
Wikipedia/Public Domain
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Address: Wehrum, PA 15961, USA
