Saxonburg

Like several of Butler County’s towns, Saxonburg began as a vision for a wholesome town offering a new life for German settlers.

Splendid Saxonburg

Named for the German state of Saxony, Saxonburg was founded in 1832 by immigrants F. Carl and John A. Roebling. Designed by John, Saxonburg’s Main Street featured the charm and distinctive architecture of a quaint German hamlet.

Today, Main Street retains much of its original character and features 32 buildings that are more than 100 years old. The street was named to the National Register of Historic Places. As you browse through the shops, don’t miss the plaques along the way that tell the historic significance of the structures. Roebling’s contributions to society didn’t end with Saxonburg’s Main Street. He invented a wire cable first used to raise canal boats over the Allegheny Mountains, and as a suspension bridge pioneer, designed the Brooklyn Bridge.

His impact on the community as well as exhibits on communications, blacksmith, general store and laundry can be discovered in Saxonburg’s museum. Be sure to include the museum on your visit for an in-depth look at the town’s interesting history and community life (museum hours vary -- call before visiting for current schedule).

Despite its small size, Saxonburg is big on charm. The community hosts several events and festivals each year that bring thousands of visitors to its tree-lined streets. If your visit to Butler County doesn’t coincide with one of the town’s special events, you’re always welcome to sit a spell on bench or stroll along the sidewalk while admiring the preservation of days gone by.

A Lasting Legacy

John Roebling was a visionary engineer whose remarkable impact on Saxonburg, Pennsylvania cannot be overstated. Born in Germany in 1806, Roebling immigrated to the United States and settled in Saxonburg in 1831. His arrival would transform the town and leave a lasting legacy.

Roebling's expertise and passion for engineering propelled him to great heights. He became renowned for his innovative design of suspension bridges, most notably the iconic Brooklyn Bridge in New York City. However, before his groundbreaking work on the Brooklyn Bridge, Roebling's genius was already at work in Saxonburg.

In Saxonburg, Roebling established a successful wire rope manufacturing business. His wire rope, characterized by its strength and durability, quickly gained recognition and became highly sought after. The wire rope played a vital role in various industries, including mining, transportation, and construction. It enabled the efficient movement of goods, the construction of aerial tramways, and the advancement of engineering projects across the region.

Roebling's wire rope factory in Saxonburg brought significant economic prosperity to the town. It attracted a skilled workforce, fostering job opportunities and driving the growth of ancillary businesses. Saxonburg became a thriving hub of industrial activity and experienced a substantial boost to its local economy.

Moreover, Roebling's presence in Saxonburg extended beyond his business endeavors. He actively contributed to the development of the community by funding the construction of vital infrastructure. He financed the establishment of schools, churches, and public buildings, leaving a lasting impact on the town's educational and social fabric.

John Roebling's influence on Saxonburg was multifaceted. Through his engineering genius and entrepreneurial spirit, he elevated the town's reputation, transforming it into a center of innovation and progress. His wire rope manufacturing business brought economic prosperity and employment opportunities, while his philanthropic efforts enriched the community's quality of life. Today, Saxonburg proudly celebrates John Roebling's legacy as a testament to his extraordinary contributions to the town's history and development.