Blakely, PA
County: Lackawanna
History
Blakely is a borough located in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, United States. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Lenni Lenape tribe, who were later displaced by European settlers.
The history of Blakely dates back to the late 18th century when the first European settlers arrived in the area. It was predominantly an agricultural community, with farming and coal mining as the primary industries. In the early 19th century, the construction of the Delaware and Hudson Canal brought significant economic growth to the region, as it provided an efficient transportation route for coal mined in the area.
The borough of Blakely was officially incorporated in 1867, named after Captain Joseph Blakely, a prominent landowner in the region. With the development of the railroad system in the late 19th century, Blakely became an important transportation hub.
During the early 20th century, Blakely experienced a period of industrial expansion and growth. Several manufacturing companies established operations in the borough, including garment factories, silk manufacturers, and metalworks. The population of Blakely boomed as a result, and new neighborhoods and housing developments were built to accommodate the growing workforce.
In the mid-20th century, like many other towns in the region, Blakely saw a decline in its industrial sector. Many of the manufacturing companies closed down or relocated, leading to a decrease in employment opportunities and a population decline. Today, Blakely has shifted towards becoming a predominantly residential community, with a mix of suburban and rural areas.
Despite these changes, Blakely retains a rich historical heritage and several landmarks of historic significance. The Blakely Borough Building, constructed in 1938, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The borough also has various parks and recreational areas, providing residents with opportunities for outdoor activities.
Blakely continues to evolve and adapt, striving to maintain its sense of community and preserve its historical roots while meeting the needs of its residents in the 21st century.
Attractions
Blakely Borough Recreation Complex
This park offers a variety of amenities including sports fields, a playground, picnic areas, walking trails, and basketball courts.
Blakely St. Barbara's Parish
This Catholic church is a local landmark known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.
Grassy Island Creek Falls
Located in Blakely Borough Recreation Complex, this scenic waterfall offers a peaceful and natural environment for visitors to enjoy.
Blakely Monument
This historical landmark commemorates the local soldiers who fought in the Civil War. It is a great place to learn about the town's history and honor those who served.
Lackawanna State Park
Although not technically in Blakely, this nearby state park is a popular attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers hiking trails, fishing, camping, and boating opportunities.
Scranton Lake Walking Trail
This trail is located along the banks of Scranton Lake and provides a scenic route for walking, jogging, or biking.
Steamtown National Historic Site
Although technically in Scranton, this nearby attraction is worth mentioning. It is a railroad museum that preserves and showcases the history of steam locomotives in the United States.
These attractions provide a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational activities for both residents and visitors to enjoy in and around Blakely, PA.
Climate
Blakely, Pennsylvania experiences a humid continental climate, which is characterized by four distinct seasons with varying temperatures and precipitation throughout the year.
Summers in Blakely are warm and humid with average temperatures ranging from the low 60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (15-30 degrees Celsius). July, the warmest month, typically sees temperatures in the high 80s (above 30 degrees Celsius). Thunderstorms are common during summer months, and occasional heatwaves can push temperatures into the 90s (above 32 degrees Celsius).
Autumns in Blakely are generally mild to cool, with temperatures ranging from the low 40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (5-20 degrees Celsius). This season is characterized by colorful foliage, and temperatures gradually decrease as the season progresses.
Winters in Blakely are cold and snowy. Average temperatures range from the mid-20s to the low 40s Fahrenheit (-4 to 5 degrees Celsius). December, January, and February are the coldest months, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common in winter, with an average annual snowfall of around 30 inches (76 centimeters).
Spring in Blakely is relatively mild, with temperatures gradually increasing. Average temperatures range from the mid-40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (7-20 degrees Celsius). This season is characterized by rain showers and occasional thunderstorms as temperatures begin to rise.
Overall, Blakely experiences a range of temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year, with hot and humid summers, cold and snowy winters, and mild springs and autumns.
Neighborhoods
Blakely, Pennsylvania is a suburban borough located in Lackawanna County, in the northeastern part of the state. It is a small community with several neighborhoods. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Blakely:
Peckville
Peckville is one of the larger neighborhoods in Blakely and is often considered the commercial center of the borough. It is home to various businesses, restaurants, and shops. Peckville also has a mix of residential areas, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses.
Jessup
Although technically a separate borough, Jessup is often considered part of the Blakely community. It is located to the south of Blakely and shares many similarities in terms of its residential and commercial makeup. Jessup is known for its close-knit community and hosts the annual St. Ubaldo Day, a traditional Italian festival.
Blakely Proper
Blakely Proper refers to the central area of Blakely Borough and is where the borough's municipal buildings, such as the town hall and police station, are located. This neighborhood consists mainly of residential areas, including older homes and newer developments.
Crystal Park
Crystal Park is a residential neighborhood in Blakely that offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, duplexes, and apartment complexes. It is known for its tree-lined streets and proximity to amenities like parks and shopping centers.
Hidden Lakes
Hidden Lakes is a newer development in Blakely featuring upscale homes. This neighborhood is characterized by larger houses and spacious yards, often situated around a small lake. It offers a more suburban and private atmosphere compared to other areas of Blakely.
These are just a few examples of the different neighborhoods in Blakely, PA. The borough as a whole offers a suburban lifestyle with a mix of residential areas, commercial districts, and community-oriented attractions.