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Dauphin County Information (Statistics, History)

Facts about Dauphin County

In Dauphin County, you can enjoy the serene beauty of our rural settings, and in only minutes, step into the bustling, urban life of our capital city, Harrisburg. The county's spectacular mountains, valleys, streams and abundant wildlife are treasured by all that live and visit here. The Susquehanna River showcases the County's beauty, and its diversity, as it winds past small, quiet towns and the busy capital city. The county is rich in farmland, making the region an important part of our agricultural economy with total cash receipts of over $57 million.

With a population of 246,500, Dauphin County is strategically located in the Mid-Atlantic region of our country and is emerging as a regional corporate center. The expansive transportation systems, including a well-developed highway network, the third busiest airport in the Commonwealth, and convenient Amtrak rail service, make the county a natural site for thriving business and industry.

Dauphin County is rich in history and heritage, offering a proud past for all to see in the many museums, historic districts and notable landmarks. From the architectural and historical splendor of the Capitol Building; to the treasured past and present of Milton Hershey's chocolate empire; to the rugged simplicity of America's last sternwheeler ferryboat, the Millersburg Ferry - Dauphin County's history and traditions are cherished and enjoyed.

Dauphin County has something for everyone to enjoy, including professional sports teams, HERSHEYPARK®, City Island, waterfront activities, and festivals galore, sprawling parks, boating and fishing, top public and private golf courses, a wonderful symphony, theatre and more.

Cooperative Extension educational programs cover a broad range of topics in agriculture and natural resources, assisting farmers, home gardeners, commercial greenhouse owners, and other landowners; 4-H/Youth Development, which is designed for youth ages 8 to 18, offering more than 150 projects in hands-on learning experiences; community development and environmental issues, centering on the wise use of resources; and family living, promoting quality of life at all ages through a variety of issues affecting families.

The purpose of this Web Site is to provide information on current programming that is available through Dauphin County Cooperative Extension, locally, and then to provide linkages to sites for additional information.