Johnstown, PA
Music connected to Johnstown
About Johnstown
- • Michael Barone, host of American Public Media's 'Pipedreams,' was born in Johnstown.
- • The Inclined Plane, a funicular, originated here to connect Johnstown to Westmont.
- • Steel production along the Conemaugh River drove Johnstown's growth in the 19th century.
- • Johnstown's 'Flood City' nickname belies a resilient community spirit.
- • The Johnstown Flood of 1889 remains one of America's worst disasters.
- • Named for Joseph Schantz, Johnstown was established in 1800 and incorporated in 1805.
- • With under 20,000 residents, the population is significantly smaller than its peak.
- • Sitting 1,171 feet above sea level makes for cooler summers than surrounding lowlands.
- • Healthcare and social assistance are now dominant sectors in Johnstown's economy.
- • Johnstown carries a palpable sense of history mixed with quiet determination.
- • Pittsburgh's Steelers, about an hour away, have won six Super Bowls.
- • Johnstown's ice hockey team, the Jets, served as inspiration for the movie 'Slap Shot'.