Discover Ford City through three distinctive themes: the history of glassmaking, the Allegheny River and its trails, and the community’s parks. There is also a digital collection of materials of local interest. This lets you choose what to focus on during your stay—from industrial history and river scenery to outdoor activities and local content.
Glassmaking History and Community Life
The Ford City Armory has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1989. Historically, it served as a venue for social events, public meetings, and civic activities. Both the building’s historic listing and its former community functions are central to its story.
Ford City’s early development is closely tied to the glass industry. Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company, now PPG Industries, became the world’s leading glass manufacturer in the early 20th century and shaped the town’s history. A large number of the first immigrant glassworkers were recruited from Stolberg, Germany. Ford City’s industrial history therefore also has a connection to German migration history.
The Allegheny River and Its Trails
The landscape along the Allegheny River is also part of this story. The river at Ford City is described as one of only four rivers in the world with a gravel riverbed; its large deposits of glacial sand were essential to glassmaking. The riverbed and sand deposits link the landscape to the town’s industrial development.
The Armstrong Trail runs through Ford City and offers opportunities for walking, running, and cycling along the Allegheny River. The Ford City Riverfront Spur is a scenic extension of the trail that follows the riverbank at Ford City’s southern end. The Armstrong Trail offers opportunities for a range of activities, while the Riverfront Spur focuses on the riverside section to the south.
Parks for Different Interests
The parks each offer something different. Boulder Park Playground provides space for free play and outdoor activities, along with modern play equipment and a recently renovated full-size basketball court. Malec Park, also known as 7th Avenue Playground, has a ball field and a basketball court and serves as a place for sports and recreation.
At Ford City Borough Park, you’ll find benches, a pavilion, and walking paths; the park is ideal for a leisurely stroll or a quiet visit. Ford View Park sits on the ridge and offers a scenic retreat. Its playground amenities are limited—a difference to consider when choosing between the parks. In all, Ford City maintains four parks and playgrounds totaling just under seven acres, about 2.5 percent of the community’s area.
Digital Local History
Another perspective is offered by the John F. Englert Collection at the Ford City Public Library. It includes digital materials of local interest. The content can be read, viewed, or listened to at the library and online. This digital local content complements the themes of glassmaking history, river scenery, and parks with access to materials related to Ford City.
Discover more destinations: Leechburg, Kittanning.
For the regional travel overview: Armstrong.
