Local History

Fayette County is an area rich in history.  Originally named Alexandria, PA, the town of Vanderbilt (population approx. 545) was re-named after railroad magnate Cornelius Vanderbilt, whose railroads once employed many local residents including members of our congregation. The town is within easy walking distance of the P&LE Railroad's old Dickerson Run railroad yard... a great starting-off point for bikers and hikers wanting to explore the adjoining Yough River Trail. 

Vanderbilt was also home to the Junction Mine & Coke Works and the Nellie Drift Mine and Coke Works where many former church members were employed. At one time the coal and coke from this region was known as "some of the highest-quality material a person could hope to find".

Nowadays the train-yards and heavy industries are gone, but Vanderbilt still retains its small-town charm, and is nearby many resort and tourist spots such as Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater, Nemacolin Woodlands, and Seven Springs Mountain Resort.