In 1826, a man named James Sharp rode into this area and purchased over of land for $1,337.37 in what was then Indiana Township, building a log cabin for his wife, Isabella L. Sharp. The original deed, recorded on October 10, 1826, can be found in the Allegheny County Department of Real Estate at deed book volume 35(K2), page 156. Opening the land to settlers, Sharp built a school and church while continuing to donate his land for the growing needs of the community. On December 14, 1841, the Borough applied for incorporation, and received its charter March 14, 1842. The charter was recorded on March 26, 1842.