California, PA

About California

• • Gretchen Barretto, a Filipina actress, attended college at California University of Pennsylvania.
• • The 'Vulcan Flyer,' a short-lived amusement park train, originated in California, PA.
• • Coal mining along the Monongahela River spurred its early growth and importance.
• • Rumors persist about tunnels under town used during Prohibition for illicit activities.
• • The Great Fire of 1920 destroyed much of the business district, prompting rebuilding.
• • Named in 1849 after the Gold Rush, it was incorporated as a borough in 1853.
• • With around 6,000 residents, it's smaller than many university towns in Pennsylvania.
• • Sitting at 748 feet, it's much lower than the Allegheny Mountains to the east.
• • Education and healthcare are major employers due to the presence of the university.
• • A nostalgic, river-town feel permeates the air, with a strong sense of community.
• • The Pittsburgh Steelers, with six Super Bowl wins, are the closest major pro team.
• • Cal U's football team, the Vulcans, won the NCAA Division II National Championship in 2008.

Songs About California