Franklin County countryside living
Saint Thomas Township is a rural community in Franklin County where open land, large lots and a peaceful country atmosphere define daily life. “People here are big on farming and essentially being able to live off of their own land,” says Mellisa Wagaman, Associate Broker with Iron Valley Real Estate of Chambersburg. “The schools here are also major draws. Tuscarora is a small district where kids get more personalized teaching than they do in those large schools with about 50 kids per classroom.” Home to nearly 6,000 residents, St. Thomas is close enough to Chambersburg and Hagerstown for convenience but far enough to offer privacy and a sense of seclusion. Wildlife is a familiar part of the landscape, including black bears and wild game from the nearby Pennsylvania State Game Lands.
Historic farmhouses and modern homes
Historic farmhouses and contemporary single-family homes are set along quiet country roads and wooded lots. Single-family homes, many built in traditional styles, range widely in price and size. More modest homes and fixer-uppers can be found between $250,000 and $300,000. On the higher end, move-in-ready homes with larger lots and modern renovations are priced between $420,000 and $510,000.
St. Thomas Elementary and James Buchanan High
Local kids can start school at St.Thomas Elementary, which earns a C-plus from Niche, then continue to the C-plus rated James Buchanan Middle School. James Buchanan High earns a C-plus and offers a Behind the Wheel Driver Education Program.
History in local landmarks
There aren’t many parks or open green spaces here other than the landscape itself. Franklin Furnace Historic District provides glimpses into the area’s industrial past, while the nearby Chambersburg and Bedford Turnpike Road Company Toll House-a 198-year-old structure that served travelers for a century until 1914-is a local landmark. The Friends of Old St. Thomas organization works to “restore and preserve the old church and its nearby buildings in our historic district”, maintaining important community landmarks. Residents seeking recreational opportunities can access larger regional parks within a short drive, where hiking trails, fishing spots, and seasonal activities are available throughout the year.
Vintage Market and Family Table Restaurant
Vintage Market at the Old Red Barn offers antiques and unique finds, while Dollar General covers everyday essentials and even serves as a FedEx pickup spot. The Family Table Restaurant is a local favorite for hearty, home-style meals like meatloaf and roast beef. Typically, it’s common for people to drive into Chambersburg for a wider selection of shopping and dining options. Small home-based businesses are part of the local fabric, with neighbors selling farm-fresh eggs, baked goods and handmade soaps right from their properties, making it easy to support local and find homemade essentials close to home. Social media and community bulletin boards help residents promote their homemade goods.
Interstate 81 and Hagerstown Regional Airport
Interstate 81, connects residents to Harrisburg in about 60 miles and to Maryland in about 15. The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) is accessible approximately 20 miles to the north, offering east-west travel across the state. For air travel, Hagerstown Regional Airport is the closest facility at just 26 miles away, providing limited commercial service. More extensive flight options are available at Harrisburg International Airport, approximately 75 miles northeast. Altoona-Blair County Airport lies 61 miles from St. Thomas. The township’s rural setting means personal vehicles are the primary transportation mode, with limited public transit options available through regional services connecting to larger communities like Chambersburg.
