South Fayette Township

South Fayette Township was created in 1842. Located 12 miles southwest of Pittsburgh, what is today known as "Pittsburgh's Best-Kept Secret" includes the populations of seven community zip codes. Originally, mining was the township's primary industry, as it is located on some of the richest bituminous coal reserves in the state. Thousands of barrels of oil used to be produced daily. Cemeteries contain memorials to Revolutionary and Civil War veterans as well as the two world wars. The legendary Mike Fink (of Disney World fame) was born here in Sturgeon. Some agricultural farms and horse/riding facilities still dot the hilly countryside among the many new housing developments. The township has a great soccer history and an ever-expanding excellent school district, one of seven in Allegheny County named among America's most challenging schools by the Washington Post. Today, South Fayette Township maintains a rural feel with a motto of "A great place to live, work and play."

The Historical Society of South Fayette Township was formed in 2004 with the goal of preserving the unique history. Charlotte Smith, a South Fayette resident, substitute teacher with the school district, and columnist with the local community newspaper for more than 10 years, is happy to share her love of historical research by compiling this book on the society's behalf and with the members' assistance.