Buying a Home in Saint Marys

The Saint Marys/Ridgway Area is located in the center of Scenic Elk County. It is one of the few places in the Eastern United States that allow elk hunting.

St. Marys was originally settled in the 1800’s as Marienstadt (Mary's City) as a predominately Bavarian Catholic farming commune. The towns would see its greatest economic growth in the Industrial Era with the development of several carbon and graphite factories. Several landmarks located in the St. Marys and Ridgway Historical Districts are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Among them are the Decker’s Chapel, built in 1856, said to be the smallest chapel in the U.S., and the John E. Weidenboemer House.

St. Marys is home to Straub Brewery founded by Peter Straub, and is stilled owned by the Straub famly. Founded in 1872, it is the 3^rd oldest brewery in the U.S., and is considered an American Legacy Brewery. Tours end with the famous “Eternal Tap”, where visitors can sample rotating beers. At the newly renovated Visitor Center and Tap Room, visitors also enjoy beer, food, and live music. 

The Elk County Viewing Center, which is home to the largest herd of elk in the northeaster United States, is located a short 20 miles from the area. The center feature interactive exhibits, walking trails, overlooks, and if you’re lucky, wild elk viewing!