Cross Creek Township is rooted in coal and community
In the quiet embrace of acres of farmland, 30 miles southwest of Pittsburgh and less than 15 miles from the West Virginia and Ohio border, lies Cross Creek Township, a go-to for those seeking spacious lands and a slower pace of life. The township's history is planted into its very soil, sitting atop the formidable Pittsburgh Coal Seam, a pioneer of natural gas exploration that fueled Pittsburgh's steel industry. Home to around 1,500 residents, it exudes a small-town charm that resonates through its history, agricultural roots and community.
There's no city life to be found for miles in Cross Creek, but that's just why people move here. "We wanted to live close to family, and this was a beautiful area within driving distance to Pittsburgh," says Mary Burns, Owner of The Crafty Alpaca. It is a one-of-a-kind store that sells hand-woven gifts made from fiber from alpacas raised on their farm. "I hand make the yarn for our products, such as hats and scarves and people can come to take a tour and spend time with the alpacas," she says. "We also have a learning center where we educate visitors on alpacas and general farm life."
Clusters of homes line main roads throughout Cross Creek Township.
Wooded hills and farmland dominate the rural landscape of Cross Creek Township.
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Homes range from brick ranches to classic farmhouses
The houses in Cross Creek are as diverse as the landscape itself. From American Four-Square homes to sturdy brick-ranch styles and classic farmhouse designs, homes exude craftsman influences. The lack of sidewalks speaks to the rural locale, and homes often sit on sprawling lawns flanked by tall, mature trees. Attached garages, long driveways, covered front porches and backyard sheds are central features. Homes don’t go on the market often, but when they do, they’re typically priced between $260,000 and $500,000.
Homes on large lots with open views are common in Cross Creek Township.
Small ranch-style home are often set back from the road in Cross Creek Township.
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Avella Area district serves elementary through high school
Students of this rural community may be a part of the Avella Area School District, which rates a C-plus on Niche. Avella Elementary Center and Avella Area Jr./Sr. High are the district’s two schools, and both have C-plus ratings on Niche. High schoolers may sign up for extracurriculars like a community service club, science club and National Honor Society.
Students living in Cross Creek-Jefferson attend Avella Elementary School.
Students living in Cross Creek-Jefferson attend Avella Junior-Senior High School.
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Parks offer boating, fishing, hiking and playgrounds
Cedar Grove Park has raised funds through a community fundraiser to update the park with multi-use sports courts, picnic pavilions and rubber mulch. The Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village is the oldest site of human settlement on the continent. As Washington County's most expansive green space, Cross Creek County Park is a go-to spot; with several boat launches, where locals cruise along the waters of Cross Creek Lake and cast their lines for crappie and bluegill. The park also offers a hiking trail and a playground. Cross Creek's Original Bait and Tackle, a family-owned business with fishing tools and boat rentals, is nearby.
Cross Creek Lake at County Park offers boating and fishing opportunities.
Residents launch boats at Cross Creek County Park on Cross Creek Lake.
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Locally owned restaurants and markets have the essentials
Several neighborhood pubs serve the community like Bull Penn Rustic Inn, a local spot designed like a cabin. It offers live music nights and good ole' country staples. Another favorite is Breezy Heights Tavern, which was originally a general store in the early 1900s that has since transitioned into a family restaurant with a mini-golf course outside and unique décor of taxidermy lions, cougars and bears. Kauffman Family Marketplace and Cross Creek Farm Market provide groceries and other essentials, often from local sources.
Breezy Heights Tavern offers dining and mini-golf in Cross Creek Township.
Dining options at The Mall at Robinson are a short drive from Cross Creek Township.
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Whiskey Rebellion Festival features reenactments and food
Washington County throws several county-wide annual events, such as the Whiskey Rebellion Festival, complete with historical reenactments, food and festivities for the whole family.
Route 18 connects to nearby communities and shopping
The nearest highway, Pennsylvania Route 18, is a short drive away. Shoppers in search of big box stores like Costco, Target and IKEA find them at The Point at North Fayette and Robinson Mall, about 21 miles away.
Photography Contributed By
Anthony Kelly
Video By
Curtis Newkirk
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