About Running of the Wools
Since 2023 Running of the Wools is an event in downtown Washington that highlights the close relationship the city and region has had with the farming and sheep industry. We want to show our appreciation for our farmers and all they do for us!
Our Main Street Pavilion will feature agricultural exhibits, educational displays, a children's area, and craft vendors. The day will also showcase our local downtown businesses with a breakfast crawl and kitchen clash, and will culminate with the Running of the Wools where our champion sheep will take on Main Street.
Our Sheep Farming History
Sheep farming plays a huge role in southwestern Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry. In the 19th century, southwest Pennsylvania was considered an epicenter for sheep farming. By the Civil War, Washington County in particular was leading the country in wool production.
This hold on the sheep industry would eventually diminish as oil and coal production became more popular in southwestern Pennsylvania in the 20th century. However, Washington County continues to have a strong sheep farming and agriculture presence today.
In 2022, Pennsylvania had a total of 3,076 sheep farms and 102,055 sheep. Washington County had the second-largest sheep farm and sheep population in Pennsylvania (only behind Lancaster County) with 135 farms and 4,491 sheep.
National Road Heritage Corridor and Washington County Historical Society have partnered to bring you this event.