The Curtin Family

Governor Andrew Curtin

The Curtin family is famous for much more than just the iron works. In 1803, Roland Curtin was coroner of Centre County and three years later he was elected Sheriff. His son, Andrew Curtin, became the first Republican governor of the State of Pennsylvania. He  governed the state during the Civil War years 1861 - 1867. Governor Curtin, who was a personal friend of Abraham Lincoln, suggested that Gettysburg be recognized as a national cemetery. Gov. Andrew Curtin was present for Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address. After serving two terms as Governor, Andrew Curtin was appointed Minister to Russia by President Ulysses S. Grant. He later served as a Democratic Congressman from 1881-1887 in the U.S. House of Representatives.  A highlight of the tour is the personal Victorian carriage used by Andrew Curtin and his family.