Corydon Township: A History of Growth and Submergence
The story of Corydon Township is one of frontier settlement, industrial expansion, and an eventual disappearance beneath the waters of a massive reservoir. Located within Warren County, Pennsylvania, this community evolved from a remote outpost into a bustling industrial hub before being fundamentally altered by mid-20th-century infrastructure projects.
The Formation of Warren County and Corydon
Warren County was officially established on March 12, 1800, carved out of the existing Allegheny County. Shortly after, in October of that same year, the original township of Brokenstraw was created, encompassing all land west of the Allegheny River and Conewango Creek. By March 1808, Conewango Township was formed, covering the unincorporated eastern portion of the county.
The specific boundaries of Corydon were further refined on March 26, 1846, when a portion of Corydon Township from McKean County was annexed into Warren County.
Early Settlement and Cultural Exchange
The first settler in Corydon was Philip Tome, a native of Dauphin County, who arrived in 1827. Tome played a pivotal role in the region's early social fabric, serving for many years as an interpreter for prominent Seneca chiefs, including Cornplanter and Governor Blacksnake.
Industrial Expansion and the Railroad Era
The arrival of the Buffalo, New York, and Philadelphia Railroad in 1882 served as a catalyst for rapid economic growth. The railroad transformed the community into an industrial center, attracting a diverse array of businesses. During this era, Corydon saw the establishment of a hotel, various stores, and several manufacturing plants, including:
- A stave-mill and saw mill
- A pulp company
- A spoke factory and handle factory
- A shingle mill
Population Trends and Decline
While many neighboring townships along the Allegheny River experienced volatile "boom and bust" cycles, Corydon's growth was more measured. The population saw a modest increase during the 1890s and reached its absolute peak in 1900.
However, the first half of the 20th century was marked by a persistent decline. By 1960, the population had shrunk to less than one-third of its peak size.
| Year | Population |
|---|---|
| 1850 | 228 |
| 1860 | 302 |
| 1870 | 411 |
| 1880 | 335 |
| 1890 | 527 |
| 1900 | 646 |
| 1910 | 402 |
| 1920 | 330 |
| 1930 | 327 |
| 1940 | 260 |
| 1950 | 263 |
| 1960 | 206 |
The Kinzua Dam and Final Annexation
The final chapter of Corydon Township was written with the construction of the Kinzua Dam. The resulting Allegheny Reservoir flooded the valley, submerging the remaining communities within the township. The small amount of land that remained above the water line was officially annexed to Mead Township in 1964.
Key Facts
- Founded: Warren County was formed March 12, 1800.
- First Settler: Philip Tome arrived in Corydon in 1827.
- Economic Peak: Driven by the Buffalo, New York, and Philadelphia Railroad (opened 1882).
- Population Peak: Reached 646 residents in 1900.
- End of Township: Submerged by the Allegheny Reservoir; remaining land annexed to Mead Township in 1964.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first settler of Corydon?
Philip Tome, a native of Dauphin County, was the first settler, arriving in 1827.
What caused the economic growth in Corydon during the late 19th century?
The opening of the Buffalo, New York, and Philadelphia Railroad in 1882 brought stores, a hotel, and numerous mills and factories to the area.
When did the population of Corydon reach its highest point?
The population peaked in 1900 with 646 residents.
What happened to the communities in Corydon Township?
They were submerged by the creation of the Allegheny Reservoir following the construction of the Kinzua Dam.
What happened to the land that was not submerged?
The remaining land above water was annexed to Mead Township in 1964.