Moosic, PA
County: Lackawanna
History
Moosic is a small borough in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, United States. It is located within the Scranton–Wilkes-Barre–Hazleton Metropolitan Statistical Area. The history of Moosic dates back to the early 19th century.
The area that would become Moosic was originally inhabited by the Native American tribes, including the Lenape (Delaware) people. European settlement began in the late 18th century when pioneers started to arrive in the region. The borough's name, "Moosic," is believed to be derived from a Native American word meaning "elk place" or "moose place," reflecting the abundant wildlife found in the area.
In the early 19th century, the construction of the Delaware and Hudson Canal brought significant development to the region. The canal, completed in 1828, transformed Moosic into a major transportation hub for the coal industry. Coal mines were established in the area, and the canal served as a vital link between the mines and markets along the eastern seaboard.
As the coal industry flourished, Moosic experienced rapid growth. The arrival of the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad in the 1850s further boosted economic activity and facilitated the transportation of coal. The development of railroads stimulated industrialization, and numerous manufacturing facilities, such as silk mills and ironworks, were established in the area.
Throughout the 20th century, the coal and manufacturing industries gradually declined. However, Moosic's location in the Scranton–Wilkes-Barre metropolitan area allowed it to capitalize on the growth of neighboring cities. Today, Moosic is known for its proximity to major transportation routes, including Interstate 81 and the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport.
The community of Moosic has also become a popular destination for entertainment and sports. The PNC Field, a baseball stadium that serves as the home of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, a minor league baseball team, is located in Moosic. The stadium attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Overall, Moosic, PA, has a rich history that is closely tied to the coal industry and the developments of transportation routes. It has evolved from a small rural area to a vibrant borough, serving as a residential community and a center for entertainment in the Scranton–Wilkes-Barre area.
Attractions
PNC Field
Home to the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders minor league baseball team.
Montage Mountain Resorts
Offers skiing and snowboarding in winter, and waterpark and concert events in summer.
Lackawanna River Heritage Trail
A scenic trail for hiking, biking, and bird-watching along the Lackawanna River.
Shoppes at Montage
A shopping complex featuring various retail stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.
Electric City Trolley Museum
Showcasing the history of trolleys in Northeastern Pennsylvania with restored trolley cars and exhibits.
Montage Mountain Waterpark
A family-friendly waterpark with various slides, pools, and attractions.
Scranton Cultural Center
A historic building housing theaters, galleries, and the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple.
Nay Aug Park
A large urban park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful waterfall.
Houdini Museum
Dedicated to the legendary magician Harry Houdini, this museum showcases his life and illusions.
Steamtown National Historic Site
A railway museum preserving the history of steam locomotives and offering train rides.
Climate
Moosic, Pennsylvania experiences a humid continental climate. This means that the area has four distinct seasons: warm summers, cold winters, and mild spring and fall seasons.
Summers in Moosic are typically warm and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28°C). However, temperatures can occasionally soar into the 90s°F (32-35°C). Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, providing relief from the heat. Evenings tend to be cooler, with temperatures dropping into the 60s°F (15-20°C).
Fall in Moosic is characterized by mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. High temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F (18-24°C), gradually cooling down towards winter. It is a picturesque season to enjoy outdoor activities and witness the changing colors of leaves.
Winters in Moosic can be quite cold. Average high temperatures range from the upper 20s to low 30s°F (-2 to -1°C), and overnight lows can dip into the teens (-7 to -10°C). Snowfall is common, with an average annual snowfall of around 40 inches (102 cm). Winters are typically dry and crisp, with occasional heavy snowstorms.
Spring brings a gradual warming to Moosic, with temperatures increasing from the mid-40s to mid-60s°F (7-18°C). March and April can still be quite cool, but by May, the weather becomes more pleasant. Spring showers are common during this season.
It's worth noting that weather patterns can vary from year to year, and these temperature ranges are just averages. It is always advisable to check the local weather forecast when planning activities or traveling to Moosic, PA.
Neighborhoods
Moosic is a borough located in Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. It is a small community with several distinct neighborhoods. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Moosic:
Montage Mountain
This neighborhood is named after the nearby ski resort, Montage Mountain. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities and recreation. The neighborhood offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is known for its close-knit community atmosphere.
Greenwood
Greenwood is a residential neighborhood in Moosic. It is characterized by its tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and a peaceful suburban atmosphere. Greenwood is known for its family-friendly environment and is popular among those looking for a quiet place to live.
Birney Avenue
Birney Avenue is a main thoroughfare in Moosic and also serves as a neighborhood. It is home to various commercial establishments, including shopping centers, restaurants, and local businesses. The neighborhood offers convenient access to amenities, making it a desirable place for businesses and residents alike.
Rocky Glen
Rocky Glen is a historic neighborhood in Moosic. It was once the location of a popular amusement park in the early 20th century, known as Rocky Glen Park. Although the park no longer exists, the neighborhood is still referred to as Rocky Glen, and some remnants of the park can still be seen. It offers a mix of residential and commercial properties.
Springbrook
Springbrook is a neighborhood located in the eastern part of Moosic. It is characterized by its natural beauty, as it is surrounded by lush greenery and is close to several parks and recreational areas. Springbrook is a primarily residential neighborhood, offering a serene and peaceful living environment.
These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods that make up Moosic, PA. Each neighborhood offers its own unique characteristics, but all share in the small-town charm and community atmosphere that Moosic is known for.