About Rush Township

Discover Rush Township, Centre County, PA: A Rich History and Natural Wonderland

Nestled in the heart of Centre County, Pennsylvania, Rush Township boasts a remarkable blend of historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty. Established in 1815, this expansive township holds the distinction of being the largest township in the Centre Region and the second largest in the entire state of Pennsylvania, covering a vast and diverse landscape.

A colorful zoning map of Rush Township, Centre County, PA, dated March 3, 2025. The map outlines various zoning districts across the township, including Residential, Village Mixed-Use, Commercial/Office, Industrial, Commercial Aviation, Industrial Enterprise, Regional Business Park, Business Incubator, Rural Resource, and Public/Semi-Public. Insets provide magnified views of specific areas. A legend on the right identifies each color-coded district. The map also includes a scale bar and a compass rose.

Rush Township proudly bears the name of Dr. Benjamin Rush, an eminent Philadelphia physician and a pivotal figure in American history, celebrated for his signature on the Declaration of Independence. This namesake reflects a connection to the very foundations of the nation.

Nature thrives within Rush Township, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. A significant portion of the Moshannon State Forest, an impressive 190,000-acre forest managed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, lies within its borders. This sprawling wilderness offers endless opportunities for hiking, hunting, and connecting with nature.

Further enhancing the township’s natural allure is Black Moshannon State Park, a true gem encompassing 3,394 acres. This unique park is dedicated to conserving a distinctive natural environment, centered around the serene Black Moshannon Lake. The park’s origins trace back to 1937, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Their tireless efforts during that era resulted in the construction of the lake’s dam, charming log cabins, welcoming picnic pavilions, and an extensive network of trails, all of which continue to serve visitors today. Black Moshannon State Park is particularly renowned for its “tea-stained” waters, a natural phenomenon caused by tannins from the bogs, creating a captivating and unique ecosystem.

Black Moshannon State Park

Whether you’re drawn to its deep historical roots, its expansive forests, or its tranquil state park, Rush Township offers a compelling experience for residents and visitors alike, embodying the spirit of Pennsylvania’s rich heritage and natural splendor.

A black and white photo of the Sandy Ridge School in Rush Township, dated 1919. The two-story brick school building features a prominent central entrance with a small porch and a large cupola with louvered windows on the roof. American flags are displayed from several windows on the front facade. A large group of children and adults are gathered in front of the school, standing on what appears to be snowy ground. Bare trees are visible on either side of the building.
Sandy Ridge School
A vintage colorized postcard depicts the Rush Consolidated School, identified as "High School, Osceola Mills, Pa." The large, two-story brick building has numerous windows and a prominent peak on its roof. Several mature trees stand in front of the school, partially obscuring the view. A large group of people, appearing to be students and adults, are gathered on the sidewalk and lawn in front of the building. An American flag flies from a pole, visible against the sky in the upper right corner of the image. The postcard has a slightly faded, antique appearance.
Rush Consolidated School
A black and white historical photograph shows the North Philipsburg Elementary School. The two-story brick building features a prominent, multi-tiered bell tower with louvered vents at its peak. A single bare tree stands to the left of the main entrance, which is slightly obscured by a small group of people. Other individuals are visible standing near the side of the building. The school appears to be situated on a slight incline, with a stone foundation visible on the lower level. To the left, a smaller, darker building with a prominent roof is partially visible. The overall image has a somewhat faded, aged appearance.
North Philipsburg Elementary School