Schnecksville, PA
County: Lehigh
History
Schnecksville, Pennsylvania is a small unincorporated community located in North Whitehall Township, within Lehigh County. The area was settled in the early 18th century by German immigrants, primarily of Lutheran faith.
The town was originally named Frogtown due to the large number of frogs in the area, but it was later changed to Schnecksville in honor of Peter Schneck, an early settler who donated land for the construction of a church.
In the mid-19th century, Schnecksville underwent significant growth and development thanks to the construction of the Northern Lehigh Railroad. The railroad facilitated transportation of goods and people, leading to the establishment of businesses and industries in the area.
The arrival of the railroad also contributed to the growth of education in Schnecksville. In 1867, Muhlenberg College, a private liberal arts college, was founded in the town. The college continues to operate today and has become a prominent institution in the Lehigh Valley region.
Throughout its history, Schnecksville has primarily been an agricultural community, with farming playing a crucial role in the local economy. The fertile soil and favorable climate allowed for the cultivation of crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. Dairy farming also became popular in the area.
Over the years, Schnecksville has experienced gradual urbanization and suburbanization as it has become more connected to neighboring cities such as Allentown and Bethlehem. However, the town has managed to preserve its rural atmosphere and is still known for its open spaces and farmland.
Today, Schnecksville is a close-knit community that offers a mix of residential areas, farmland, and commercial developments. It is known for its annual Schnecksville Community Fair, which celebrates the agricultural heritage of the area and attracts visitors from surrounding communities.
Overall, the history of Schnecksville reflects its humble beginnings as a small farming settlement, its growth during the railroad era, and its continued development into a suburban community while maintaining its agricultural roots.
Attractions
Lehigh Valley Zoo
A top-rated zoo featuring a wide variety of animals and offering educational experiences and special events.
Schneck House
A historic building that serves as a museum and displays artifacts reflecting the region's history.
Lehigh Valley Grand Prix
An indoor go-kart racing facility where visitors can enjoy high-speed racing on multiple tracks.
Schnecksville Community Fair
An annual event featuring agricultural exhibits, entertainment, rides, and games.
Historic George Taylor House
A preserved 18th-century Georgian-style home once owned by George Taylor, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Jordan Creek Park
A public park offering picnic areas, walking trails, and a stream for fishing.
Grim's Orchard and Family Farms
A popular fall attraction with a variety of activities such as apple picking, corn mazes, and hayrides.
Shankweiler's Drive-In Theatre
The oldest operating drive-in movie theater in America, offering a unique movie-watching experience.
Trexler Nature Preserve
A large natural area with trails for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation.
Bear Rock Junction
A family-friendly entertainment center featuring miniature golf, gem mining, and a train ride through scenic surroundings.
Climate
Schnecksville, Pennsylvania, has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers in the area are generally warm and can occasionally be hot and humid. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) to the mid-80s°F (around 30°C).
Winters in Schnecksville are cold and often experience snowfall. Average temperatures during the winter months range from the mid-20s°F (around -4°C) to the mid-30s°F (around 1°C). Snowfall is relatively common and can accumulate throughout the season.
Spring and fall are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. Spring brings blooming flowers and trees after the winter thaw, while fall is known for its colorful foliage as the leaves change before winter. These seasons typically experience temperatures ranging from the 40s°F (around 4°C) to the 60s°F (around 15°C).
Schnecksville also experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, with the rainiest months typically being during the summer. It receives around 45 inches (114 centimeters) of rainfall annually, with snowfall averaging around 35 inches (89 centimeters) per year.
It is important to note that climate patterns can vary from year to year, so it's always a good idea to check current weather forecasts when planning activities or travel to Schnecksville, PA.
Neighborhoods
Schnecksville, Pennsylvania is a small unincorporated community located in North Whitehall Township in Lehigh County. While it is a small area, there are a few distinct neighborhoods within Schnecksville:
Schnecksville Village
This is the central area of Schnecksville, consisting of the historic village center. It is characterized by tree-lined streets and residential homes, some of which are historic in nature. The village has a small-town charm with a few local businesses and restaurants.
Penn's Terrace
Located in the west part of Schnecksville, Penn's Terrace is predominantly a residential neighborhood with single-family homes. It is a quiet and peaceful area with a suburban feel, and many families choose to live here due to the proximity to schools and parks.
Willow Green
Situated in the southeast part of Schnecksville, Willow Green is another residential neighborhood. It features a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The area is known for its well-maintained green spaces, making it an attractive place to live for those who enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
Cherryville
While technically not within the Schnecksville vicinity, Cherryville is often considered part of the overall community. It is a neighboring village to the northeast and is primarily residential, featuring a blend of newer and older homes.
Although Schnecksville is relatively small, it offers a mix of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, providing residents a range of housing options and amenities to choose from.