Beaver County is a quiet little hamlet nestled in northwestern Pennsylvania. It's the home of many towns, such as New Brighton, Rochester, and Beaver Falls. Even though there isn't always much to do, it stays with us natives our whole life. Here are 15 things only Beaver County natives will understand.
15. Many of our towns are named after Native American tribes
Various towns such as Chippewa and Monaca have a special place in our hearts.
14. New Brighton's annual Halloween parade
The small-town tradition always draws a crowd eager for free candy.
13. Hot Dog Shoppe
The heart-clogging delicacy is a staple in Beaver County. It's also a must-have when arriving back in the area.
12. Hank's Frozen Custard
Another Beaver County delicacy, people flood the place when they open after the long winter.
11. Friday night football is everything
No matter your age, Friday night games are a staple of the community.
10. Oram's
Oram's donuts are literally like eating crack. Once you start, you can't stop.
9. Beaver Valley Mall
Admit it, when you were little you thought this place was the best. It's nowhere as nice as Robinson or other Pittsburgh malls, but it's where we hung out in high school.
8. The main street of Beaver
The main street of Beaver is one of the best places in the county for small, privately owned shops. It also hosts many cool activities, such as the annual Light Up Night. Some shops worth mentioning are Kretchmar's Bakery, The Goldbug (my father's store), Witch Flavor, and Cafe Kolache.
7. You grew up next to a power plant
Namely, the first full-scale nuclear power plant in the U.S. And though you spent your childhood going through nuclear fallout drills, you never really thought anything of it.
6. Car shows
5. CCBC
4. Raccoon Creek State Park
3. Brady's Run Park
Most notable for its ice skating rink where middle schoolers congregate, Beaver County has another great outdoors area to frolic in.
2. People have a weird thing about calling Beaver natives "Cake Eaters"
Being from New Brighton, this was a pep rally tactic to get hype for the game. However, being friends with many people from Beaver, they are not snobby or rude. It's just one of those high school things that last forever.
1. Living on the Ohio River
For the most part, every town in Beaver County is along the Ohio River. Thus, our many bridges and places to swim. The Ohio River is one of the most scenic parts of our county.
When I left for college, I thought to myself, "Wow, I will never miss Beaver County." However, when I left for Clarion University, I realized that Beaver County helped make me the person I am. The small-town atmosphere and friendly people helped shape me into a good person. Even though I no longer live here, I always remember where I came from and tell people about Beaver County with pride.
