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The town square of Mars, PA.
History
History
Located in southern Butler County, the town of Mars is described as a “prime example of small-town America, where people gather at the local diner and greet each other on the sidewalk.” The town’s history dates to 1792 when the first settlers arrived. This small community, with a present-day population estimate of 1,625 residents, is nestled in a small valley along Brush Creek.
In 1873, Samuel Parks constructed a home and water-powered gristmill in present-day Mars. Parks decided to help have a post office placed in his home and received help from friend Samuel Marshall to establish it; the post office was named Overbrook. In 1877, the Pittsburgh, New Castle, and Lake Erie railroad was constructed through Overbrook, and had a station built there. To avoid confusion, the name of the community was to Mars since the railroad already had a stop with the name “Overbrook.” A few years later, in 1895, Mars was incorporated as a borough.
Historians disagree over the source of Mars as the town’s name. Some believe the town received its name from Park’s wife who studied astronomy, while others believe it was shortened after Samuel Marshall’s name.
Located on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Mars flourished in its early years because of its location. Later, an electric trolley route linked Pittsburgh and Butler County through the Butler Short Line. Oil and coal brought a boom to the entire area, and the town’s strategic location made it a natural trade center for supplying the needs of the two industries.
Present Day
Present Day
Today, Mars experiences challenges attracting businesses to the local community. Still, the town is classified as a “redevelopment community attracting new business in a town that is 125 years old, surrounded by new housing developments and communities.” The current mayor, Gregg Hartung, calls the town’s unique position as the only Mars in the United States its “best asset.”
The median age in Mars is 42 years old, which is approximately 4% higher than the state average of 41. 61% of the population over 15 years of age are married. 98% speak English and 1% speak Spanish. 81% of current residents were born in Pennsylvania, 17% were born out of state, and 1% were born outside of the United States.
Mars' annual celebration of Mars New Years, in collaboration with NASA.
The educational system in Mars consists of 5 public schools and a cyber academy. A total of 90% of students have completed 8th grade, 89.7% completed high school, 27.0% have completed a bachelor’s degree, and 1.1% have completed a doctorate degree.
Several TV series and movies have been filmed in or around Mars, with the most notable being the 1996 comedy Kingpin featuring Woody Harrelson, Randy Quaid, Vanessa Angel, and Bill Murray. Part of it was filmed at Mars Lanes, which was painted Pepto-Bismal pink at the time of filming.
Several key events happen over the course of the year in Mars, including:
Mars Applefest: A popular festival held annually on the first Sunday of October featuring specialty apple themed food including fresh apple butter, pressed cider, and baked apples; accompanying the festival is a craft show with over 90 vendors selling arts and crafts. Hosted by the Rich-Mar Rotary Clubs.
Light Up Night: An annual parade following Santa down Grand Avenue to light the town Christmas tree in “Spaceship Park”. Other traditions accompanying this festival include story time and pictures with Santa, Christmas caroling, food, and the Live Nativity presentation at the Mars United Presbyterian Church.
July 4th Celebration: An annual bike and pet parade followed by a community parade throughout the town. Food and craft vendors line the streets in the town square during the day, followed by a fireworks display at night.
Mars New Year: In coordination with NASA, Mars the town celebrates the New Year on Mars the planet. The festival highlights innovation and exploration, including STEAM activities for children. Food and fireworks accompany this festival.
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