About
About the Coraopolis Historical Society
The Coraopolis Historical Society is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and celebrating the stories that have shaped our borough—from its earliest days to its modern identity. Located along the Ohio River in Allegheny County, our community’s history is rich with pioneering spirit, industrial achievement, and architectural heritage.
Milestones in Coraopolis History
Early Settlement & Fort Vance (~1773)
- In 1769, Andrew Montour was granted the land that would become Coraopolis; however, there's no evidence he settled there. (moontownshiphistoricalsociety.com, Wikipedia)
- Captain Robert Vance became the first permanent settler around 1773, building a fortified log and stone stockade—later known as Vance Fort—to protect against raids. (Wikipedia)
From Middletown to Incorporation (1886)
- Originally known as “Middletown” (also called Vancefort for post office purposes), the village was officially incorporated as the borough of Coraopolis on June 7, 1886. (Wikipedia)
- Legend credits the name to Cora Watson, though evidence suggests “Coraopolis” derived from the Greek words kore (maiden) and polis (city), suggested by Reverend Josiah Dillon. (Wikipedia)
Rail and Industrial Sparks (1877 onward)
- The Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad opened service near Coraopolis in 1877, spurring development. (Wikipedia)
- The Montour Railroad, chartered that same year (1877), anchored its headquarters in Coraopolis and became a vital coal line, transporting millions of tons before ceasing operation in 1984. Its trail has since been repurposed as the Montour Trail. (Wikipedia)
High-Speed Streetcar Innovation (1892)
- In 1892, Coraopolis became part of the route for America’s first high-speed electric street railway, which connected Pittsburgh with nearby communities including Coraopolis. (phlf.org)
Richardsonian Romanesque Legacy: Coraopolis Railroad Station (1896)
- The Coraopolis Railroad Station was constructed in 1896 by the Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad. Designed by Shepley, Rutan & Coolidge in the Richardsonian Romanesque style, it's recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. (Wikipedia)
Bridge Heritage: The Coraopolis Bridge (1892, moved 1927)
- The original bridge at the site was built in 1892 as Pittsburgh’s third Sixth Street Bridge. In 1927, its distinctive Pratt/Bowstring truss spans were floated down the Ohio River and re-erected between Coraopolis and Neville Island, becoming the Coraopolis Bridge. (Wikipedia)
- This creative reuse of infrastructure added historical significance and character to the borough. (Wikipedia)
Modern-Day Legacy & Preservation
- While industries have evolved, Coraopolis preserves its historic identity—from its hilly streets and older homes to revitalized architecture. Efforts by the Historical Society and community groups ensure these legacies endure. (Kiddle)
Why This Matters
These milestones tell the story of Coraopolis as a community of adaptability, innovation, and pride—where early settlers built fortifications, railroads shaped growth, and even bridges were repurposed to forge connection. The Historical Society seeks to safeguard and share these stories, ensuring future generations understand and appreciate where we come from.