Discover the Coldest Temperature Ever Recorded in Pennsylvania

Written by Lev Baker
Published: February 7, 2023
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Welcome to the Keystone State, where history and natural beauty collide. From the majestic peaks of the Appalachians to the vibrant streets of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has it all. But today, we’re going to take you on a journey to the state’s hidden gem, where the thermometer dipped to unimaginable lows.

Get ready to shiver as we uncover the coldest temperature ever recorded in the state. Let’s learn more about the day when Smethport recorded a bone-chilling -42°F on January 5, 1904.

History Of Smethport

The Bucktails

One of the most notable events in Smethport’s history is its association with the Civil War. General Thomas L. Kane, who organized the Bucktail Regiment, has deep ties to the town.

©2,816 × 2,112 pixels, file size: 781 KB, MIME type: image/jpeg – License

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Pennsylvania Wilds, Smethport is a picturesque town with a rich history. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Kinzua Bridge State Park and Allegheny National Forest, it’s a nature lover’s paradise.

Just a short drive away from the bustling metropolises of Erie and Buffalo, this charming town offers a peaceful retreat. 

This small town was founded in 1807 by Dutch land investors. The town of Smethport bears the name of a prominent Dutch banking family – the De Smeths. This family played an essential role in the town’s history, as they financed the land acquisition from the Commonwealth that led to the establishment of this charming community.

In the early days of Smethport, the town’s economy was kickstarted by establishing its first business, a water-powered sawmill. The sawmill was built by John Applebee in 1822, and it played a crucial role in the town’s growth. The sawmill had an artificial pond that now serves as the centerpiece of Hamlin Park and, in the past, provided a vital source of power for the town’s development. It’s interesting to note that an early industrial development became a recreational spot for the town.

With a rich history dating back to 1807, Smethport has played a significant role in the development of McKean County. In 1826, the town was designated as the county seat and officially incorporated as a Borough in 1853. One of the most notable events in Smethport’s history is its association with the Civil War. General Thomas L. Kane, who organized the Bucktail Regiment, has deep ties to the town. 

Economic Prosperity

The quaint town of Smethport has a long-standing history of economic prosperity, thanks to the booming timber and East Coast hardwoods industry of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This period of growth allowed for the construction of grand mansions, many of which can still be seen today in the town’s historic architectural district. These grand structures are a testament to the community’s rich past and the vital role the hardwood industry played in the development of the area.

In 1908, the small town of Smethport, Pennsylvania, made history as the birthplace of the country’s first magnetic toys. Smethport also gave the world a beloved classic with the invention of the Wooly Willy toy. This toy continued to be a hit during the 1950s and is still being produced today.

Dramatic rocky overlook in the Allegheny National Forest with brilliant fall foliage

Smethport is a picturesque town with a rich history. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Kinzua Bridge State Park and Allegheny National Forest, it’s a nature lover’s paradise.

©Zack Frank/Shutterstock.com

Fun Facts About Smethport

Here are some fun facts you probably never knew about Smethport:

  1. In 1906, a groundbreaking invention was developed in Smethport – the first automated machine for setting bowling pins.
  2. The Old Jail in Smethport has been reported as the sixth most haunted location in the state of Pennsylvania.
  3. In 1894, an individual by the name of Henry Hamlin, who resided in the area, was considered to be the wealthiest private banker in the United States.
  4. The first Christmas Store in America, which also served as a year-round yuletide shop, opened in the town in 1935, but unfortunately, it shut down its operations in 2005.
Pin Setter

In 1906, a groundbreaking invention was developed in Smethport – the first automated machine for setting bowling pins.

©New Africa/Shutterstock.com

Average Temperatures

The town of Smethport is known for its distinct seasons, characterized by a wide range of temperatures. During the summer, the weather is typically warm to hot and can often be humid. In contrast, the winters are freezing, with severely cold temperatures. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, the climate in Smethport is classified as “Dfb,” which represents a humid continental climate.

The town of Smethport experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with summers that are partly cloudy and comfortable and winters that are snowy, mostly cloudy, and freezing.

Temperatures can reach as high as 78°F, providing a comfortable and pleasant environment during the summer. However, in the winter, temperatures can drop as low as -0°F, making it a snowy and chilly place. The town’s climate is characterized by a range of temperatures throughout the year, with an average range of 16°F to 78°F. Extreme temperatures are not common; temperatures below -0°F and above 85°F are rare.

However, on January 5, 1904, the state of Pennsylvania experienced a record-breaking cold snap, with the town of Smethport reaching an unprecedented low temperature of -42°F (-41°C).

The central Appalachian region is known for its intense and sudden rainstorms, with some of the highest rainfall accumulations in the world recorded in short periods. One such example is the storm that struck Smethport, Pennsylvania, on July 18, 1942. During this storm, an astonishing 780 mm (30.7 inches) of rain fell in less than 5 hours, making it one of the most intense rainfall events recorded in the area. 

Pennsylvania Winter

On January 5, 1904, the state of Pennsylvania experienced a record-breaking cold snap, with the town of Smethport reaching an unprecedented low temperature of -42°F (-41°C).

©Andrew Hearn/Shutterstock.com

Population

Smethport has seen its population fluctuate over time. In 1905, when the town experienced the coldest day ever, the population of Smethport was 1,704.

The town’s population has been steadily decreasing since 1910 when the population was at 1,817. And as of 2021, the population of Smethport is 1,412.

Wildlife In Smethport

Pennsylvania is home to diverse wildlife, including over 25,000 known species. From the rainbow trout swimming in its rivers to the white-tailed deer grazing in its fields, many animals call Pennsylvania home.

The lush state forest and parklands are a haven for all sorts of creatures, from the majestic red-tailed hawk soaring in the skies to the elusive black bear wandering through the woods. Even the often-overlooked slugs and timber rattlesnakes have a place in the state’s ecosystem. With such a wide range of species, both common and rare, Pennsylvania truly is a nature lover’s paradise. Many of these animals can be found in and around the small town of Smethport.

Let’s look at some of the notable wildlife of Pennsylvania.

Timber Rattlesnake

Timber Rattlesnake coiled on ground.

If bitten by a timber rattlesnake, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

©iStock.com/NajaShots

The timber rattlesnake, a potentially dangerous species found in many parts of Pennsylvania, is known for its distinct color variations. These snakes are easily recognizable, from the striking yellow with dark bands to the ominous, almost black morph. But despite their long fangs and capability to inject a large amount of venom, they are shy and unlikely to attack humans.

In fact, they typically give a loud warning rattle before striking, allowing people the chance to retreat. However, if bitten by a timber rattlesnake, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. The good news is that anti-venom for this specific snake bite is highly effective.

Black Widow Spider

Animals with exosceleton black widow spider

The female can be easily recognized by her jet-black body and distinctive red markings on the abdomen.

©iStock.com/maria72

The black widow is a species known for its deadly venom, but did you know that the female of the species is even more venomous than the male? This is due to her larger venom gland. The female can be easily recognized by her jet-black body and distinctive red markings on the abdomen.

Although a bite from this spider can cause severe pain, cramps, and spasms, death is a rare occurrence, even if left untreated.

Black Bear

Black Bear (Ursus americanus)

According to an estimate, 16,000 black bears call the state of Pennsylvania their home.

©Holly Kuchera/Shutterstock.com

According to an estimate, 16,000 black bears call the state of Pennsylvania their home. Despite their reputation as fierce predators, these large carnivores are not as dangerous as one might think. However, it’s important to remember that they are still wild animals capable of causing harm.

Although rare, injuries and even deaths can occur in these situations. But, overall, the chances of encountering a black bear and experiencing an attack are pretty low.

Tricolored Bat

Tricolored Bat (Perimyotis subflavus)

The tricolored hair on their back makes this species of bat easily recognizable.

©iStock.com/JasonOndreicka

You may not expect it, but there’s a miniature bat fluttering around the Eastern and Midwestern states, including Pennsylvania: the tricolored bat. It weighs a surprising 1.5-3 ounces and stretches 3-3.5 inches from head to tail.

The tricolored hair on their back makes this species of bat easily recognizable. However, their populations are currently at risk due to a mysterious fungus known as white-nose syndrome. This fungus spreads quickly in winter, when bats congregate to hibernate.

Once infected, it disrupts their hibernation cycle, leading to devastating consequences for the population.

Shortnose Sturgeon

shortnose sturgeon

These bottom-feeding

fish

are a sight to behold, but unfortunately, their populations have been on the decline.

©pixel creator/Shutterstock.com

The shortnose sturgeon is a majestic species that roam the deep waters off the coast of the United States before returning to freshwater rivers to lay its eggs. These bottom-feeding fish are a sight to behold, but unfortunately, their populations have been on the decline. 

The Delaware Bay and its surrounding river system are home to these fish, but human activities such as water pollution, overfishing, poaching, and accidental boat strikes have greatly impacted their numbers.

Additionally, their slow maturity and low birth rates make it even harder for the population to recover. Sadly, the shortnose sturgeon is now considered one of the rarest fish in the area.

Up Next

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Marcello Sgarlato/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Lev is a writer at AZ Animals who primarily covers topics on animals, geography, and plants. He has been writing for more than 4 years and loves researching topics and learning new things. His three biggest loves in the world are music, travel, and animals. He has his diving license and loves sea creatures. His favorite animal in the world is the manta ray.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What is the coldest temperature on record in Pennsylvania?

On January 5, 1904, the state of Pennsylvania experienced a record-breaking cold snap, with the town of Smethport reaching an unprecedented low temperature of -42°F (-41°C).

What is Smethport's ties to Christmas?

The first Christmas Store in America, which also served as a year-round yuletide shop, opened in the town in 1935, but unfortunately, it shut down its operations in 2005.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.