Road Trip Through America’s Industrial Past 🇺🇸

Rural western Pennsylvania is known as a region for industrialization. Many of the towns out here had a significant role in developing America. But a large amount of industries have left the area, so what's it like now? Join me today for a surprising and unexpected journey, meeting the locals to hear their perspectives as we get lost in bygone towns with prosperous pasts and unknown futures.
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All rights reserved © 2024 Peter Santenello

[@PeterSantenello]

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[@kichlersm]

I wish I could have assisted!!!! You would have loved my neck of the woods. Real old steel mill people. All in and around Pittsburgh. So much culture around here.

[@dennyclark4954]

Thanks for the time and work you put into all these videos. Love learning about history and how it impacts the future.....

[@emilyanderson148]

Noticed you retained some of your Hawaiian pigeon when you asked the cigar store owner about “talking story” in the cigar lounge. Aloha my friend!

[@yjb854]

Peter, I’m glad you visited Ligonier! I hope a Steubenville Oh story is in the future - Cory

[@maestromike8694]

There’s also a set of 3 towns close to Cumberland to the southwest: Westernport, Luke, and Piedmont. Luke had a paper mill that just closed there’s some KZbin videos about all that. Westernport has some blight areas by the gorgeous historic school. Piedmont has an abandoned downtown. Looks like it used to be quite something back in the industrial era.

[@sherylholcomb277]

I’m permanently disabled due to lack of oxygen during a cardiac arrest in 2019. I’m so grateful for your show especially because I have not been on a trip since 2019. I feel like I have a chance to see the beautiful USA through your eyes. Thank you for keeping the shoes going.❤ I have watched them all 🙏🏼😘❤️

[@PeterSantenello]

I'm sorry about your condition Shery but I'm happy you're getting something out of these videos. Thank you so much :)

[@jared1940]

Such a strong woman

[@TheIndyspace]

Hi Sheryl, best wishes to you..! May I recommend the Sleeperdude channel travel videos..? They're family-oriented and usually pretty funny, too... 😊 They do some great road trips..! 🤩

[@robfreshstartadkins3391]

Hey Sheryl you’re an amazing lady… life isn’t fair at times but thankfully we have great people out there showing us the many sides and stories from all around

[@bpdbhp1632]

Hoping the best for you from europe

[@comedyriff5231]

My favorite videos are the free roaming videos where you meet random people organically. Love it!

[@TheBlocklandPlayer]

Adds An Element, For Sure.

[@alan30189]

Same here!

[@larspregge6420]

jupp

[@babyboy1971]

Yes!!!!! Totally. Chance encounters.

[@laurapalmerTDGE]

First and foremost the beauty of the documentary in all its simplicity but the charm of reality. A piece of history, the foundations of the present that are forgotten by current generations. I have decided, and as a Belgian, to put Gautier Steel mills in Johnstown, Pennsylvania on my agenda and other beautiful parts of America. No Mallorca or Ibiza or other nonsense. Let alone Brussels. Peace.

[@le4905]

The interview part with the cook on the dock was beautiful. I hope he does really well in life.

[@markboreen3359]

Yes, I liked that guy. I wish him the best.

[@Hndsomehubby]

I get a very inspirational feeling from all the people here.

[@dirtrockground4543]

Yea he seems like a cool guy

[@joelzinho4600]

It looks like he's headed in the right direction now that he moved out the cities of PA.

[@maxipadi42069]

You can see the pain and horror in his eyes and body as he relives the moment. I have felt that all too much

[@tbonecooks9244]

That dude on the dock talking was incredible gorgeous inside and out. Humble and pure.

[@Mgweber93]

Yeah cool ass dude

[@krismajchrzak4671]

Hell ya having a natty daddy chilling my kind of peeps lol

[@rileywhittenberger5258]

Thanks for coming to Western PA and the region that built America. We are a proud people…

[@olefella7561]

In my humble opinion, it's about time to decolonize the Colonized lands, such as North & South America and Australia & New Zealand, and return to rightful owners Native American people and Native Asia-Pacific people. Notorious global cardinal crimes the 'Christian' West has committed, and benefited a great deal, such as Slavery & Colonialism had long been over, why on earth is notorious Colonization still lingering on, may I ask?

[@capicolaspicy]

The last portion of the video gave me some really nice insights. The guy that was basically saying when the steel industry and coal industry declined, many people that were around then got stuck in their heads that the town is a dead and they had no realization of a possible new and very different future. They only think of the town as having been viable because of coal and steel. Now people are seeing the wealth of other good things about repurposing an entire town to new jobs and new businesses and new ways of working. Excellent video!

[@TheBlocklandPlayer]

I Will NEVER FORGET THE #AMAZING #PIZZA F PORK CHOP MADE ME HIT CAPS LOCK HEH HEH #AMBRIDGE BOXES TO THE CEILING, SQUARES, YUM

[@briansmith48]

Since everything is online now people can live anywhere and make a living.

[@wolfpack4128]

Same thing I've seen here in NW PA. A bunch of businesses went out in the 90s and early 2000s. The people thought prosperity was delivered from large corporations. These same places today are starting to recover as the younger generations have never known a world of: work for a company for 50 years and retire.

[@MrRaitzi]

That is how it goes. People have mortgages to pay and leave quick. But then decline makes opportunity to buy buildings cheap and small shops can afford to come again. And so it goes on.

[@debbievoss3496]

​@@MrRaitziAbsolutely!

[@dockterperoxide1768]

Seriously! This is getting up to an Anthony Bourdain level. One of the few channels I genuinely look forward to watching.

[@amymalina5073]

I think that’s a good comparison

[@nikki4u22]

Same!!!!!

[@IntellectuallySuperior2U]

*Me too! I love it. In fact, no one could ever get me to watch a single minute of the late night shows w/ "celebrity" interviews (or Oprah years ago). However, I could binge watch hours of Peter's videos.*

[@jasonlarsen3515]

If stays off the heroin

[@keithgrooms6792]

Peter I’m an avid watcher, and you do an absolutely amazing job at these videos. People really need this kind of content.

[@debbievoss3496]

Lol, well said Keith.

[@jeremyleforce7926]

It's awesome how many people are so comfortable talking to Peter.

[@josepha9313]

The sound of a train horn off in the distance late at night is the most comforting sound I know. I love these small towns and their buildings and history. That antique shop with the bank vault and the safe deposit boxes was something else.

[@kennethwilliams7697]

Another eye opening look into apart of the country, we don't see and know much about. My Daddy used to say, "no matter your race or creed, people are basically the same where ever you go."

[@BrendaT24]

Amen ❤

[@weirdonextdoor164]

i love the way he shows how friendly and outgoing most americans are.being north of their border all the news shows you is murders and crime...peter does a great job showing you the real people.....

[@steven.h0629]

🎵🎵Ebony & Ivory, live together in perfect harmony, side-by-side on my piano keyboard, oh Lord why can't weee? 🎶🎶 🎸🎸We all know that people are the same whereever you go, There is good and bad in ev'ryone... 🎷🎷

[@Easystreet208]

Well said and felt!

[@bluelivesmatter8502]

Instead of getting a single guide for whole video, interaction with multiple locals makes it much more immersive... Thanks for your hard work.

[@BostonsF1nest]

Yea because you get many different perspectives

[@GYMusic]

Peter, don't change a thing. Great production. You have a unique way of making your interviewees comfortable. Best of luck.

[@zugzwang742]

I was raised in Roscoe, just five minutes away from that Steel Mill. My grandfather worked there. I'm in total awe to see this on KZbin and grateful this little place is garnering thousands of views. It's a time capsule of nostalgia and generational hard labor. Thank you for bringing light to the way of life in the rust belt.

[@KarenBaker616263]

Ligonier, Pennsylvania is named after Fort Ligonier, which was built in 1758 to support the British-American Army during the French and Indian War. The fort was named after Sir John Ligonier, a British Field Marshal of French descent who served as commander in chief. The settlement that grew up around the fort eventually took the name Ligonier, which was shortened over time. I love your videos!!!

[@becbec3541]

“Cigar guys have always got good things to say” Top tip! X

[@fcv1967]

I struggle to find quality YT content throughout the week, but I know this show never lets me down.

[@deatako6006]

So true!

[@capicolaspicy]

Falling Water is gorgeous! My mother grew up in a Frank Lloyd Wright house on Tillinghast Place in Buffalo, NY. Got to stop and take pics during a business trip in about 1998. A nice lady came out and asked if she could help me, I apologized and mentioned my mom, and she invited me in to see the main area. He was a genius in my never to be humble opinion!

[@sarajones8026]

Yes!! I agree!

[@SenorSol]

Agree! Being an architecture fan when I visited the US I made a special trip to see Fallingwater, it's even more stunning in the flesh than in photos, and it's stood the test of time, it looks as amazing and contemporary now as when it was built back in 1936!!!

[@ImYoutubing247]

Also from Buffalo. Frank Lloyd Wright homes are the best

[@SparkyTuttle]

You are not alone in your belief. One thing is for certain he was ahead of his time. I think of him like my architectural Tesla. ❤

[@stephenash777]

If you go to Falling Water, the most eye opening thing is to read the binders of letters from the home owner to the architect. The building may look pretty, but it was a nightmare to live in! Horribly designed for life.

[@hm9627]

SHOUTOUT TO KEVIN MAN..... I dont know him, but I feel his vibe, you can feel that he has a good soul man

[@MaxEPR]

Watching Peter's Rust Belt videos, I have yet to see anyone on their cell phones. Not the kids, not the adults. Not one even in sight. And here we have a club where people gather to play board games. How brilliant!

[@daves1A1killer]

Peter, I absolutely love your videos. You do such a great job of not only getting off the beaten path, but striking up conversations with anyone and everyone in such an organic way. I also appreciate how you interact with people from all walks of life without judgement or a shift in tone. Your genuine curiosity and desire to connect and learn about people and places really shines through in every video. Thanks for the work you do and for sharing these places that most people have never heard of, let alone visited.

[@PeterSantenello]

Thanks so much Dave! My job is always to bring what I experience to you guys in these videos.

[@colintook3357]

Thanks for another great video Peter. In a mad world where it's easy to get ground down by negativity you always find the best of the human spirit in such an organic way. Please keep it up. Best wishes from the east of the UK.

[@erica_0612]

Very well said! I totally agree.

[@briansmith48]

Peter is the only one that consistently gets out of his vehicle and actually talks to the local people. Other traveling vlogers only drive around and make commitments through the camera to their audience.

[@dqt261]

​​Your best videos were in India and Pakistan and the Middle East I think that you did some harm to Titus, and he isn't doing well. Not everybody can handle going viral; but you've made a fortune off these videos . Oh, also your Arizona sheriff in Texas sheriff videos were very high quality. Those are the only ones I watch really because you give a lot of attention to the people that are blowhards and avoid like the woman that was trying to tell you about what's happening in those extreme conservative towns with the fake Christians and the churches on every corner,. But more power to you, I guess@@PeterSantenello

[@shotgun111180]

I think these videos about western Pa are some of Peters best work! He's making me want to tour the area.

[@SIR46661]

@@shotgun111180 Especially the Monessen one !

[@courtneyv3184]

You won’t be disappointed! These areas are so rich in history. Especially Ligonier and Johnstown.

[@dynagaming2693]

Having lived in Western PA all my life, it's a very misunderstood part of the country. The only reason people ever talk about it is because of the Steelers, or Pittsburgh in general. Nobody seems to care about the people and history that built this region, and what happened to those people when the steel industry shuttered here. Occasionally someone makes a video about the "most dangerous" regions, and what they fail to do that Peter does is actually talk to the people and get the real story.

[@randiD123]

Born and raised in the region. I left in 1989 but family is still there. My father and brother are steel haulers so the steel industry was integral to our lives. Thanks for a good representation!

[@courtneyv3184]

I have family in Pittsburgh, Uniontown and currently live in Johnstown myself. I spent A TON of time in every town in this video. I wish you could have spend more time in Uniontown/Ligonier/Johnstown. These areas are SO rich in history it truly is incredible. Johnstown had its fair share of major floods which is why many businesses closed or left town. Once steel started leaving the area, many places/people followed. We had the flood of 1889 which was incredibly devastating. Andrew Carnegie, Henry Clay Frick, and other prominent members of society spent time in this area. Clara Barton provided aid to Johnstown when this happened. Another major flood happened in 1936 while the Great Depression was still in full swing. In 1977 another flood hit and we never rebounded fully since then. I would love to see you come back to Johnstown to do it justice!

[@kashiffiroz6667]

That's some fascinating history. Wow. Would want to hear more about the place in details. It looks the perfect quintessential town where things may look sleepy on the outside but there is a lot of life bubbling underneath ❤

[@courtneyv3184]

@@kashiffiroz6667 Johnstown, like every town, has good and bad to it. But it truly is a resilient city and the people that love it here, do their part to give back to the community and are striving to make it an even better place. I highly recommend visiting!

[@kashiffiroz6667]

@courtneyv3184 i would definitely want to visit the place , i stayed in harrisburg/Philadelphia and visited Pittsburgh a few times but i missed out on this one. I would most likely be back in feb , maybe its too cold then but would still try & make it there. Can i find a tour guide / someone to explain the history of the place. Seeing things from the perspective of a local ,someone who knows the place makes it so much more interesting and alllows to dig deeper

[@KrisVivis]

Living in Johnstown myself, there’s a lot of history to this town, definitely right about it never fully rebounding from the 77 flood!

[@courtneyv3184]

@@KrisVivis I wish I could have been around to see Johnstown in its heyday. It would have been such a prosperous area today if it wouldn’t have been for all the floods.

[@eeeustace]

Between 1883 and 1929, Carnegie funded the construction of over 2,500 libraries worldwide, with a significant number in the United States, including Pennsylvania, where he had deep personal and industrial ties. Carnegie's fortune was largely built through his steel empire, which was centered in Pennsylvania, particularly Pittsburgh. He felt a sense of responsibility to give back to the communities that were part of his industrial network, so he funded public libraries in these towns. His contributions often came with conditions, such as requiring the local government to provide the land, pay for the library’s ongoing maintenance, and keep it open to the public. These libraries became vital cultural and educational centers in many small towns across the state.

[@-Ricky_Spanish-]

You just don't see many wealthy people doing that anymore. Rather than giving back to the country that allowed them to become so wealthy, people now spend it on pure self-indulgence (when they're not hoarding it).

[@razup2323]

Yes, libraries for self education…

[@peaceloveandprayers9369]

Peter, please keep doing what you are doing. Showing parts of America most people will never get to see and never realized existed. 🙏🏼 Thank you sir.

[@jwebbw]

Peter Santanello living the dream, traveling small town America, interviewing and videoing the voices that need to be heard, giving hope and dreams to many...until the next one and travel on !!

[@joelzinho4600]

Trump 2024!

[@garyburgmylifeandtimes6354]

There should be a REQUIRED class in High School called AMERICANA that just shows all your videos everyday in class. Young adults would learn soooo much more about the United States than any book or lecture could possibly show then. The is priceless video about the American we live in and its true diversity. Thanks for sharing these videos so we all can learn more about the United States, no matter what our age.

[@sloth6765]

all these people could benefit from higher taxes and more central price control from washington, and more welfare. hahaha

[@calebwright9974]

@@sloth6765yap session

[@topgazza]

What a great channel. As a Brit I’m enjoying this brilliantly produced window into real America. Loved the southern states series as well. Quality

[@closer2theheart684]

Western PA is a chill region. Good food, nice people.

[@klaastevelde6718]

Why did we replace these nice diners for fast food chains? That burger looks great and some nice people serving it to you.

[@maestromike8694]

Post world war 2 hyper Capitalism, race to the bottom and white flight tore up a lot of beautiful communities

[@seanobrien7169]

​@@maestromike8694😂😂😂😂 that has to be the most ignorant response I have read yet. 😂😂😂😂

[@emilywiebel3238]

Agree, a diner like that is so much better! It used to be cheaper to get fast food but now a meal at McDonald’s is over $10! The burger and onion rings that the diner were 100x better I can guarantee and under $10.

[@CreampuffgameZ]

I think he specifically mentioned he was on a time crunch but I agree as well. Support the local business.

[@CantThinkofaCoolOne]

America is a special place.

[@benallmark9671]

I hope we can still say that in a decade or two

[@wanderingwarrior5626]

Very special. Why I, and many other Americans now live abroad.

[@drscopeify]

​@@wanderingwarrior5626 Well the USA is the most dynamic country in the world by a long shot, the fastest growing cities in the USA now in 2024 were not even a twinkle of an idea in people's minds just 20 year ago. NO country in the world is even remotely close to as wild and dynamic as the USA. it is always ever re-inventing itself, willing to break it all down and pick up the pieces, unlike most of the world where they settle in to a routine and hunker down, Japan and Germany are great examples, they were growing like the USA in the 1960s-1990s but then became stuck in the 1990s, they got comfy and said, forget the future, screw it, we like the 1990s more, so we are going to stay here, and they have. For sure people will want to get off the wild crazy ride and move somewhere sure-footed and slow, and take life easy but most Americans go head first in to a change, why would someone who has a safe path in life, who has resources just pack up and move from a very slow moving town in Ohio or Pennsylvania or from around the world and move to the hot, desert in Idaho or Colorado or Arizona or Nevada or Texas, why? Because they want change, they are thirsty for new way of life and no country has people that desire change and ever new world than the USA. Do you see millions of Australians packing up and moving to the desert? No. Do you see millions of Canadians packing up and moving to the untamed north or somewhere new? No. They get comfy and settle in. Do you see millions of Europeans move to some new cities that did not exist or were small towns in nowhere 20 years ago? No. To each their own but my family moved from Hungary to the USA at the end of the USSR and it was the best decision they made in their life.

[@wanderingwarrior5626]

@@drscopeify Good for you! Happy you found your paradise too!

[@Crackers2549]

One of the very best KZbin channels is Peter Sanantello’s channel. Just fantastic coverage of areas you probably will never get to see in your life. Five STARS ✨ PLUS…!!!❤️💯🥪 Greg👍

[@PeterSantenello]

Thanks Greg!

[@jespernielsen7420]

I live in Johnstown, I have been here for 23 years, and, while it has some issues (what town doesn't??), the town is definitely on a rebound. It is a WONDERFUL place to live and work! The city exited its decades-long distressed status a few years ago and was recently given an award by the PA DEPT. OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. Currently, we have unemployment under 4%, new companies are coming in, and investment is being made downtown with a new main street project and a new central park plan coming. I have built a business from the ground here, and it is a great place to have a business! We have everything from healthcare to industry to high tech, software development, higher education, and cutting-edge manufacturing. We have hiking, biking, rafting, skiing, and so much more. Every weekend there are countless events, and our annual music festival draws people from all over the US and Canada. If you are looking for a great place to live and work, Johnstown is it!

[@buckmusky2201]

another great thing you guys have is a Kevin, i wish my town had Kevin!

[@Susieq0408]

Great to hear!

[@MyHandleIs]

Much like that obviously bs 4% unemployment stat, your comment comes off as some sort of marketing ploy. You're exaggerating parts of Johnstown that exist only in technicalities.

[@Nicehousecrappycar]

I took this drive 10+ years ago and it opened my eyes to how nice and how beautiful Western Pennsylvania is.

[@QuanahParker17]

It is! I've lived here my entire life. Home to some of the toughest, and friendliest people you will ever meet! 😊

[@youbetterwakeup2449]

The world in general is a beautiful place. It's just that certain people want to ruin everything for the rest of us. They want to make us as miserable as they are.

[@Runescape_God]

More people need to make that drive, myself included. I’ve noticed a general mindset from folks in the greater Philadelphia region for example don’t seem to acknowledge anything west of the Susquehanna.

[@chefcamsey1375]

This is what a leader looks like. If Peter was in running my country I would be proud. Politicians and leaders who are failing the people you're supposed to...take note from this good man

[@AdamFoll]

I grew up in Pittsburgh, moved away for a couple years. Came back for a couple months and since moved to seven springs and work in ohiopyle… the Laurel highlands is now my home and from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU for this trip through my backyard. Hope you enjoyed your time ❤

[@apollovizsla]

I was born and raised in the Laurel Highlands, in Somerset County! My niece lives in Pittsburgh and a few years ago, she was offered a job in Ohiopyle. I think it was at Wilderness Voyageurs. May I ask you where you work in Ohiopyle? I live in Connecticut, but I will be headed there on Monday to visit my family. My husband and I go to Ohiopyle every year and we rent bikes from an outfitter and ride to Confluence for lunch and then head back. We love it there!

[@AdamFoll]

@@apollovizsla Laurel highlands river tours is my company. Great family owned business (not a corporation like wv)

[@apollovizsla]

@@AdamFoll I think my husband and I rent bikes from the building next to you. We rent E-Bikes there so that we can cover more ground in a shorter amount of time. Well....that and my husband's knee problem.

[@courtneyv3184]

Crazy how a video can connect people! I grew up in Somerset County and currently live in Johnstown. I spent a ton of time exploring the Laurel Highlands! Seven Springs and Ohiopyle.

[@elizabethwitt2621]

​@@courtneyv3184 fell in love with Johnstown in this video. Was wondering how you feel about living there?

[@MattWhyel-mj6jg]

This video is crazy to me. I grew up in Brownsville and graduated high-school from there. I used to live on Front Street at one point, you even walked right passed where it was. I also know the person that's selling the house you pointed out. I also used to work for the railroad that you watched go by Allenport and I've put those rail cars in there at Allenport before as well. I also lived in Uniontown, and now I live in Greensburg, 15 minutes from Ligonier. This was all very surreal to see on KZbin! I just wanted to say so much more about each place you stopped at lol Even though Brownsville and Uniontown aren't as "rich," new, or kept up as a lot of other areas, it honestly isn't as bad as people say and it's definitely improved in the last 10 years. But with that being said there's definitely a lot of reasons why I decided to move at least 45 mins away lol.

[@courtneyv3184]

I have family that lives right between Brownsville and Uniontown. My great grandfather worked in a coal mines in Brownsville. I currently live in Johnstown, so I spent a ton of time in every town of this video. I loved coming to Brownsville for the Ghost Tours at Nemacolin Castle in the fall. Every town has a rich history and all of them are as equally interesting.

[@user-gk7wd6sn9c]

I was born and raised in western Pennsylvania. I come from a small town north of Johnstown. I can remember all the different factories and mills back in the 80's. My mother worked as a seamstress for over twenty five years. She was a proud Union member and as a kid and teenager I remember standing on the picket line with my mom. By the late 90's early 2000's the majority of factories had shut down. We're starting to see new businesses and industries come to the area. Things are slowly coming back. As someone who lives in a small town I wanted to say excellent work on capturing the authentic,nice and polite way the people are. When you walk down the street people say hello and aren't frigid like some other places. My favorite memory from growing up in Western Pennsylvania, was literally having a little backyard but an entire Forest to play in. 🙂🙂👍👍 Great video!!!

[@justinsimpson9892]

Ohiopyle is An amazing outdoor recreation area. Run, bike, rafting, you name it. Beautiful.

[@janetpugliesi3203]

Ohiopyle is fantastic!!

[@kd6836]

My small town was booming and from the 70’s to 90’s a theater, drive in movie, swimming pool, 2 new car dealers, department stores, hardware stores and everything just gone. Lots of empty buildings. That seems to be the story all over. Very sad.

[@WayCoolJr27]

MAGA

[@AJP2565]

You mentioned the Johnstown flood of 1889, but there was one in 1936 and 1977. I lived through 1977 flood and I left in 1983.

[@kd6836]

@@AJP2565 I’m sure those were bad as well. But 1889 was unbelievably tragic.

[@_Wirenut_]

This series on Western PA might be one of my fav you’ve done Peter!! And these vids where you just roam on your own like this are the absolute best ones!!! Keep up the great work!!

[@zettie555]

From a patron who loves road tripping myself, your travels through so many small towns across America has fed my curiosity in what makes your country tick.. gives one from across the pond in Australia (so to speak) and insight to what core values drive American people from all walks of life. I truly believe the pace in which the world is moving does not allow people the time to embrace transition on the many teirs needed to create innovative, thriving communites. As much as I love the run down romanticism of old towns and buildings...it is such a shame to see some of them decay and slowly be reclaimed by nature, losing all that history and, valuable communities. It is so important for someone to document what's unfolding now. Thankyou for creating such a fascinating body of work.

[@andypeake4492]

Peter Please keep up the stellar work you do. I know of no other brave reporter that is doing this ground level inventory of American Culture at this high level. You should be receiving PHD Credit for your work!!

[@samnorman5594]

Peter I love the way you made Kevin feel so good, That was masterfully done.

[@Mahakasmieslapsi]

Peter, thank u for showing the usa, im from Finland and I love so much to learn

[@PeterSantenello]

Thank you! Hanoi Rocks :)

[@Mahakasmieslapsi]

@@PeterSantenello hell yes ! :D

[@IntricateLoon]

I grew up near Johnstown and have been following the revitalization that is happening in the downtown area around Central Park for some time. In the mid 2000s, the Kernville section of Johnstown was trying to create an arts district where artists could buy property that needed renovated (at little to no cost) and receive grants and funds to live and work at the property as their studio. A few artists moved in but at that time, the rest of the city didn’t have the means to attract new residents so the initiative fell through. Now, there are new restaurants, new businesses, and community events, that are attracting new folks and enticing former residents to return. Also, that mural in your last shot is the only Marvel approved mural in the world in honor of Johnstown native and Spiderman co-creator, Steve Ditko.

[@lynndalton733]

Wow interesting tidbit of info there! Good for you guys. Pennsylvania is beautiful

[@sonofbruce2]

One of the O.G. NYC death metal bands, Incantation, relocated to Johnstown in the mid 2000s I think. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Incantation_(band)

[@stelstorm5157]

Authentic reality showcasing real Americans makes Peters journeys educational and entertaining while giving the rest of the country hope that America will survive.

[@greysonbohannon5067]

I’m from central Louisiana but my girlfriend is from the rust belt region of pennsylvania and lived in Johnstown for many years until I moved her down to Louisiana with me in February. She never liked that place, but coming from an outside perspective, I’m fascinated by western Pennsylvania. Its so similar to the slow way of life where I grew up, yet so different. Seeing you film Johnstown brought back so many memories of seeing the town for the first time and meeting her for the first time. I thank you for what you do and helping me relive my nostalgia. To add to that, her hometown is Tyrone Pennsylvania, its fascinating in its own way given how small it is. You can really see the remnants of the coal industry in that town.

[@AlwaysGoofyGibbs]

Love to see people like Kevin. I am glad you gave him a platform.

[@PeterSantenello]

Yeah he put off such a great vibe.

[@natlovell122]

This content is gold! Feels like I’m meeting people from all over the country

[@kashiffiroz6667]

When i took an Amtrak train ride from NJ to Pittsburgh , the sights on the way were absolutely breathtaking. I had come all the way from India to travel across US just because over the last 2 yrs watching you made me fall in love with all the places. I'm so grateful i did that in life. While i have traveled all across India and few places in Europe , travelling through US was the experience of a lifetime , especially the countryside. Thank you Peter for showing me this, I'll be travelling sometime in Feb again & i do hope we can meet sometime

[@joshuasjericho3915]

Yes Pittsburgh go to the strip district the food there is great❤

[@joshuasjericho3915]

Have a fish sandwich for short and Wholey's fish market

[@acetofresh1]

What’s tragic at 12:30 is when the man discussed the insane violence in Pittsburgh, and it’s gravity, you know he’s also discussing demographics, and by escaping that city he escaped that demographic. There’s a severe pattern of this all throughout America’s inner cities, and the political class doesn’t discuss it at all.

[@valtterijarvelainen4245]

Greeting from Finland, your videos really peak my intrest, really love your videos and you'r view on the world. Really would like to visit especially the rust belt places and appalaichia Keep it up Peter safe travels👍

[@joshuasjericho3915]

You need to visit Pittsburgh my friend go to the strip district can definitely go to Wholey's fish market and get a fish sandwich and also go to peace love and a little Donuts❤

[@danielnichols7864]

You should do videos on the old cowboy ways in the west. Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Montana. Places like that. So much history in the west. I'd love to see some videos.

[@bearpawz_]

Awesome video! I love how upbeat residents are, and how proud they are of their towns! 🏠🏡⛪🌲🤗

[@ryan-jonnoble6793]

From Sydney Australia but live in Liverpool UK. Awesome videos and great stories from the people involved 👍🏼👍🏼 Great way to learn parts of US history

[@aldunlop4622]

This place reminded me of Newcastle (Australia) after the steel mill closed. Eventually it found its feet again.

[@memesandmasculinity5491]

There's a nice sense of peace on this channel. Real slice of life stuff. It's very calming and I enjoy it. I hope all the good people out there are doing well. How was your week?

[@zachattack245]

Another rust belt video? Yes please

[@RogerStern-dg1pc]

I find myself mostly watching the rust belt videos, because it's so different from where I'm from.

[@CharlieJ69]

Peter, thank you for this rust belt series. I moved away from NE Ohio more than 30 years ago, rarely have the chance to visit, and long to return. I miss my home and my people, though some of them being Steelers fans will just have to be something I overlook

[@Casey-N-TN]

That vault is so cool.

[@Finland-SkiTeam39-40]

As a Nordic (European) these videos are so educational and interesting to watch. Local people with original stories and stunning history always behind it; well done !!! (Love the diners, though ;-))

[@royhardy407]

I am English living in Nottingham. I find your videos so interesting. Seeing the cultural heritage of the buildings (albeit younger than England) being preserved is a credit to those small towns. Those 3 young kids selling $40 worth of lemonade daily captures the entrepreneurial mindset of America. Keep the videos coming Peter.

[@frenchfan3368]

People always say that Southern U. S. Americans are so friendly. I don't doubt that but I would add it's not just southerners that are typically friendly but people from less crowded, congested areas despite the region of the country.

[@-Ricky_Spanish-]

I've been everywhere in this country, Americans by in large are just friendly people, it's not a regional thing or a city/rural thing.

[@frenchfan3368]

@@-Ricky_Spanish- Yes, Americans in general are known for being friendly, but trust me, there are certain places where they are more friendly than others.

[@-Ricky_Spanish-]

​@@frenchfan3368 Well in my experience big cities are MUCH friendlier than rural areas (I am from rural America), so it's probably not something we would agree on.

[@wafelhausen]

Peter you always have at least one person in each video that puts a smile on my face and warms my heart, this time it's Kevin.

[@BluemakerSc2]

That house with the waterfall is drop-dead gorgeous, actual dream home must be very calming to life there with the water and all

[@sarajones8026]

It’s a frank lloyd wright house! One of my favorites ❤

[@michaelpfister9960]

Your videos have given me a totally new perspective on your country Peter. Amazing to see these parts of your country and hear the authentic perspectives of the locals. All the best from Europe (Switzerland).

[@skate2ice]

I'm surprised you didn't mention the Johnstown Flood. The Johnstown Flood of 1889 was the worst dam failure in American history and the deadliest single-day loss of civilian life in the country up to that time. The flood was caused by the collapse of a dam built to support the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club after days of heavy rainfall. The resulting torrent of water, which was equal to the flow of the Mississippi River, destroyed most of downtown Johnstown. The flood killed more than 2,200 people, destroyed 1,600 homes, and caused $17 million in property damage, which is roughly equivalent to $550 million in 2022. The flood was so massive that it equaled the flow of the Mississippi River.

[@courtneyv3184]

Are you from here in Johnstown? Super knowledgeable! It’s a shame this city has seen so much destruction. Always think about what could have been.

[@ShilohWorshipMusic]

Peter, you have a heart of Gold!!!! Your kindness is so evident in the way you connect with people and show everyone respect and love! Blessings!

[@islandmanmikep]

I am a black American. I never knew about many places you have been. It makes me smile that these places exist. Great content from your forever fan.

[@60shots]

Loved this video Peter, Watching from the UK. You absolutely show the real USA and the beautiful people.

[@RcottR]

I do like the episodes where Peter just drives or walks and finds random people to talk to.

[@belle6071]

Peter. Your content is a blessing. America is worth celebrating. In these times, it's so easy to become bitter. Thank you. I feel better.

[@jenniferharned6484]

My husband was raised in Somerset County, PA, about 75 miles East of Pittsburgh. There are beautiful old towns that have virtually have been abandoned over due to the decline of small agriculture and Pittsburgh steel.

[@davidw7]

Blame Corporate America for abandoning places that made it for the cheap and avoid Unions. Suburbs first, Asia enmasse made it total in theses small to large cities and Corporate America still does it and blames higher cost, avoids saying Unionization fears yet huge.... and sees less incentives or free money to relocate from these states. The Northeast/Midwest never needed to be bled as it was. Huge moves to Asia for the cheap was now over time detrimental in every way and if that at least did not happen? Much of the declines might not have occured.

[@honeybadger5933]

​@@davidw7 I blame the politicians and them making bad trade deals. Nixon opened the door to Chinese manufacturing. Nafta was a bad deal. Etc.

[@-Ricky_Spanish-]

@@honeybadger5933 It was mostly Reagan's policies. He encouraged companies to send jobs overseas to avoid dealing with unions and increase profits, and he started promoting the North America free trade zone as early as 1979.

[@razup2323]

@@davidw7tax and regulations make it impossible for corporate to consider Pennsylvania. Period.

[@abcdgump616]

dont forget north western pa, from meadville to erie and oil city/titusville regions

[@Concretelicker]

Ain't shit to cover in meadville

[@cometier]

Hit up New Castle too

[@elizabethorsillo7187]

And Mercer County.

[@RandomDudeOne]

I can easily see these areas making a comeback. Retirees, young families looking for inexpensive housing. Tourists coming for the beautiful countryside.

[@kalsir4985]

Remote work could give a huge boost to small towns. The peace and quiet and low cost of living is very attractive once you are no longer tied to a big city for work.

[@JenJenANDChrissy]

That's the neatest, most organized antique shop I've ever seen! I would love to snoop around there so much.

[@seasun297]

Peter your videos saved me from depression last year in November of 2023 when I needed something to turn my attention to amongst the chaos. thank you for your content!! ❤❤

[@Alenezi314]

I am from overseas, and i still remember when i was a student at Cleveland. I took a road trip to Pennsylvania, specifically Philly and Pittsburgh. That was life Peter, thank you for bringing up the memories.

[@davidfaler]

There is an angle of insite that you should consider. During the heyday of many of these towns when money was flowing from the coal and steel industry the city, county and state all had their hands out. Once the big companies went out of business, to make up for the shortage in revenue, property taxes were raised which caused people to leave. Bureaucracy and taxes also stymied new businesses and caused exsisting businesses to leave. It takes most governments a long time to change their ways and reasses the situation usually once it's too late and the town has basically become a ghost town. The government needs to work hand-in-hand with businesses to ensure their success. If businesses fail and have to close people lose their jobs. Those people can no longer afford to live in the area and must go where they can find a job.

[@alexvagias5295]

Good point. Ecomomics changed. Government didn't adjust.

[@Matthew-sg3ew]

Love these windows into forgotten America - beautiful people and some stunning towns

[@user-cq8xx1lk5z]

I work for a small police department about 25 minutes north of Johnstown. The crisis lady you spoke to is wonderful. Such a good soul!

[@bonniemcdermid7387]

Beautiful country. Rich in history, culture and natural beauty. Well done

[@cdd4248]

Beautiful Small Town and I would absolutely live there! I have so much respect for towns and people that built this country.

[@TOCC50]

Great cities that the blacks ruined

[@TOCC50]

Coloreds destroyed everything

[@TOCC50]

B lacks ruined everything

[@BrendaT24]

​@@TOCC50not true

[@TOCC50]

@@BrendaT24 Jim Crow Worked

[@Niffertysker]

The US need to pay Peter for his videos, because everyone of us that lives outside want to go to all the areas he is showing us..

[@janeentumbao8690]

I think he does fairly well without the government sticking its nose in. Each video gets at least 1 million views. And he has a gazillion videos out. He's no Elon, but he's far from broke!😂

[@chrisfalx3251]

😂

[@maxipadi42069]

This was definitely your best video. You can see the pain in the river mans eyes as he is reliving all of his past in just a few minutes. It reminds me of the song the river man by nick drake. You hold a world onto your own Peter. We would all be lucky to randomly talk to you. ❤

[@youngsixty7395]

Can we all appreciate the fact that Peter never disappointed us with his content. 👍👍👍

[@lukeenglund5896]

Great work, Peter. Your chat with Kevin put a big smile on my face. I love how you greet everyone with full presence and respect.

[@MonkeyDolphin]

Wow, thanks for this video. So many memories... I grew up on Front St. in Brownsville in the eighties, just a few blocks up from Nemacolin Castle. My best friend jumped off the Lane Bane bridge when I was 15, in an inexplicable suicide. My grandfather flew his plane under the old, low bridge going to West Brownsville. My aunt worked as a dental hygienist at the Union Station building, and my cousin (her son ) rode his sled (unintentionally) off the 12-foot wall behind the castle, into downtown traffic, and got a concussion. The town was in steep decline even then, but I still have great nostalgia for the place.

[@courtneyv3184]

My Great Grandfather worked in the coal mines in Brownsville. He passed when I was young, but I have such a love for this town because of him. I went to Nemacolin Castle during Halloween for the Ghost Tours. I hope to see Brownsville grow again to its full potential.

[@MonkeyDolphin]

@@courtneyv3184 I think most men of that era worked in coal or steel. My paternal grandfather was a pit boss just up Rt 40 in Richeyville, and my uncle was a miner in Fredericktown, just down the river a bit. My cousin and I would walk down to the castle in the summer and get candy at the shop there. They had the best licorice. The empty field (in the video) across from the castle was where all the neighborhood kids played softball or football. We'd walk the streets and gather as many kids as possible to make teams. I searched Brownsville on KZbin many years ago and was amazed to see the worldwide interest in my decayed little hometown. Wouldn't it be ironic and awesome if the burgeoning ghost town business actually spurred its revival?

[@libertygiveme1987]

Thanks for taking us along with you Peter!!!! What can I say, you NEVER CEASE TO AMAZE US!!!! All the different people you talk to, and the different areas you visit. I just LOVE IT!!!!

[@Angus-Johnson-8334]

Peter’s videos are truly incredible, glad to see you here Global Rapture Watchers channel friend

[@libertygiveme1987]

@@Angus-Johnson-8334 Hey Angus!!!! Small World!!!!

[@ryanm9628]

I love small town America 🇺🇸.

[@runewyrdgaming]

Keep up the awesome work, Peter. Look forward every Saturday!

[@allisontravelswonderland2939]

Ligonier is my favorite town, so cool to see it on here!

[@prince27592]

Thanks for posting. I'm in North Carolina now but grew up in that area of Pennsylvania. I was born and raised in Greensburg, PA.

[@lisapaxton5206]

Me too.in California now

[@vwexpo1]

“Flood City” thanks for stopping by my hometown Peter!!!!

[@Tentoesdownmedia]

I've watched this video twice now. Absolutely love this channel. I have been watching for two years now and it just keeps inspiring me to get out and explore more and meet new people.

[@Big-Daddy-96]

I live about 30 miles north of Pittsburgh and moved here after I got out of the Army because my wife is from here (I grew up in Cincinnati). Been here 25 years now and I love it here. God bless Western PA and God bless America.

[@WaterDesignirrigation]

Peter, they were proud of the buildings . Put much love into what they were making with their hands.

[@macattack144]

Lack of bustle and crowds I think are a good thing and why these towns are treasures. I'm from northern NY, have lived in Boston for the last 8 years and I miss the quiet, peaceful charm of these types of towns.

[@WayCoolJr27]

The only way I would end up in Boston to live would have to be prison.

[@ElmerGLue]

Plenty of people love small towns. What many don’t like is competing with the economics of the nearest city. Once the jobs leave the junkies fill it in.

[@mione134]

There are plenty of quiet and peaceful towns in Massachusetts and New England. Small town folk, too. You just got to find one that fits.