Monday, April 21, 2014

Victorian Bellefonte – Live in the Heart of Pennsylvanian History

April 21st, 2014
By: Sarah Boha

“La Belle Fonte!” Exclaimed French Ambassador Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Perigord; and with his complement to the central spring, the Victorian town that we know today as Bellefonte was named.  “Victorian charm in a modern world”, is scrolled across the top of the www.bellefonte.com website; the influence of history through the first plotting of Pennsylvania lands and the evolution of the town with references to Victorian architecture is what Bellefonte exudes today.  Walking down High St. in Bellefonte, you can’t ignore the architectural influences of Classic Revival, Georgian and Queen Anne styles mixed with 21st century business; Cool Beans Coffee and Tea, The Governor’s Pub and the newest fashion boutique Halo.  The thriving of old and new harmonizing together is what makes Bellefonte unique, historical and a wonderful choice to consider if you’re thinking of moving to the Central Pennsylvania area.


Brief History of Bellefonte
It all began when James Dunlop plotted out the lines of Bellefonte in 1795.  With his son-in-law James Harris they are accredited for building the first home which sits on the corner of High and Spring Streets.  In 1805, the iconic courthouse was constructed with many additions following throughout the years.  The four cross streets that intersect in front of the courthouse is representative of the Pennsylvanian Diamond model that was popular in the first founding of Pennsylvania towns. 



As Bellefonte continued to build, it became the home of many of the earliest governors of Pennsylvania and two other states; James Addams Beaver, Governor of Pennsylvania 1887-1891, also served as the President of the Board of Trustees at Penn State for 24 years, John Bigler, Governor of California 1852-1856, had roots in Centre County before moving to California during the gold rush, William Bigler, Governor of Pennsylvania 1852-1855, brother to John Bigler, Andrew Gregg Curtain, Governor of Pennsylvania 1861-1871, Curtain was born in Bellefonte and was an early supporter of Abraham Lincoln.  There would be two more Governors of Pennsylvania, Daniel Hastings and William F. Packer, both of whom grew up in Central Pennsylvania. 

Bellefonte continued to boom, rich in iron to become the town we know today.

Where to Live in Bellefonte
With riveting history, ever changing architecture and great location with wonderful amenities; you may be finding yourself considering Bellefonte in your home search.  If you’re a consumer of real estate in the Bellefonte and Pleasant Gap area, you have an array of choices.  There are homes that are the epitome of country living with stunning mountain views; developments such as SteepleChase or Grove Park are an excellent place to start.  Springfield, Robinwood and Forest Heights are also excellent choices for serene living amongst the countryside and farms of Bellefonte.  For more information about neighborhoods, new constructions and or if you would like to talk with a Realtor about what you’re looking for in a Bellefonte home; visit our website, http://www.annetteyorksgroup.com/community/area/16823/ to learn more or contact our team in office, (814)272-6111 to set up a consultation. 

History stemming from Bellefonte would go on to shape the surrounding area, including the street names we know today on Penn State’s University Park Campus; Curtain St., Bigler St. both on campus and the most notably Beaver Ave. in downtown State College.  Today, Bellefonte continues to evolve with new construction, business and is drawing attention from consumers outside the state of Pennsylvania as a great community to live.  Call our group today if you’d like to become part of the continued history of Bellefonte, PA.     

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