Cumberland County is
situated on the west side of the Susquehanna River and along with
Perry County is commonly referred to as the West Shore. There are six
boroughs in Cumberland County and
Carlisle serves as the County seat. The population is just over
200,000, and many of the residents are employed by the three military
installations within the county. The area boasts several major shopping areas
and recreational parks, as well as industrial sites. Intermixed with many new
residential developments are acres of rich agricultural land. The area offers
many historical homes and churches and has a reputation for being "a quiet
place to live." Cumberland County's history was first recorded about 270 years
ago when a Frenchman named James LeTort came to the area. A famous trout stream
now bears his name. It wasn't until 1750 that Pennsylvania's Colonial Assembly
created Cumberland County. Cumberland County has a very rich history. In fact
George Washington came here to organize troops for the Whiskey Rebellion. Among
those signing the Declaration of Independence were three residents of
Cumberland County; James Wilson, George Ross and James Smith.
The County also played a role in the Civil War. During the campaign at
Gettysburg in 1863, confederate troops passed through Cumberland County twice,
resulting in two small battles. The sandstone pillars of the Old Courthouse on
the Square in Carlisle still show scars from the shellings. When visiting
Cumberland County a must see is the town of Boiling Springs. Stroll through
this historic town and be transported back to the early 1800's. The town's name
comes from its many underground hot springs. A main attraction in the town is
Children's Lake.
Try fly-fishing on the Yellow Breeches. This stream is thought to provide some
of the best fishing in the country.
You may even want to attend dinner and a show at the Allenberry Resort Inn and
Playhouse, which has been featuring Broadway hit shows since 1949. It's a
perfect place for a weekend getaway! Cumberland County is known for its beauty
and growth and has something for the entire family to enjoy.