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NEWPORT REVITALIZATION & PRESERVATION SOCIETY, INC. |
NEWPORT
TODAY
Looking back on Newport's past, we recognize that the community first grew from a Native American settlement in the 1700's to an active port - first on the Juniata and then on the Pennsylvania Canal in the early 1800's. When the railroads became the major transportation source, Newport became a rail transportation hub, exporting grain, lumber, leather and textiles, all produced from the surrounding community. It was during this period that most of the major buildings were erected on the square to house the retail and business establishments necessary to support the mill owners and workers and the surrounding agricultural community. At the same time lovely residences reflecting varied architectural styles were constructed. Newport has recently been designated as a National Historic District.
Today the Newport community is a blend of commuters, farmers, artists, artisans and local business people. Local activities reflect this blend. Newport is home to the Little Buffalo Park, the Perry County Council of the Arts, the Perry County Fair, Little Buffalo State Park, the Oliver Grange and an active 4H Club.
Plush valleys have kept farmland in families for generations. The spectacular Tuscarora mountain range, the lovely meandering Juniata River and the rich farmland all surround the residents with magnificent natural beauty. For all these reasons, the area has been termed Central Pennsylvania's best-kept secret. The president of the Harrisburg Historic Association recently said, "There is no other town in the area as rich in architectural design as Newport, and these building, unlike buildings in other communities, are all intact. The town is charming".