Kittanning Path

Early History of Trails

Historical trails, often called "traces" or "paths" contributed to the migration and settlement of large portions of the United States. Many trails were well established by the time Europeans immigrated to the colonies. The original 'travelers' on the trails were probably various types of wildlife as they moved from place to place in search of grazing lands, salt sources and fresh water. Native Americans were familiar with trails and utilized them for thousands of years prior to settlement by Europeans. The paths were also used to wage war, thus the term: “War Path”. Because they were often well worn, relatively easy to follow and led to grazing lands and fresh water Europeans utilized them as well on foot, horseback and with wagons. Many of these trails, or portions of them, were eventually utilized in the construction of roads and highways in modern times.

Location of Kittanning Path

The path ran in a generally East to West pattern running from the Juniata River in modern day central Pennsylvania to the Indian village of "Kithanick" (now known as Kittanning, Pennsylvania). It went through Cambria County, Indiana County, on through Shelocta County ending Kittanning, Armstrong County located on the bank of the Allegheny.

History