Wescosville, PA
County: Lehigh
History
Wescosville is a census-designated place (CDP) located in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. The area was originally settled by Europeans in the early 18th century, primarily by German immigrants seeking fertile land for farming.
The name "Wescosville" is said to have derived either from "Wyskos" or "Wescuset," which were names attributed to the indigenous Lenape people who inhabited the region prior to European settlement. Over time, the area became known as Wescosville.
During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Wescosville thrived as an agricultural community. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it a desirable location for farming, and many families settled in the area to cultivate crops and raise livestock.
With the advent of the railroad in the mid-19th century, Wescosville began to experience further growth and development. The Allentown Railroad, later known as the Central Railroad of New Jersey, established a station at Wescosville, opening up opportunities for trade and commerce. The railroad facilitated the transportation of goods, connecting Wescosville to distant markets and attracting businesses to the area.
In the 20th century, Wescosville continued to evolve. Rapid urbanization in neighboring Allentown led to suburban development and an increase in the population of Wescosville. Housing developments and commercial projects sprouted in the area, transforming the once predominantly agricultural landscape into a residential and commercial hub.
Today, Wescosville is largely a suburban community situated just west of Allentown. Its convenient location near major highways, such as Interstate 78 and Route 222, has attracted businesses and contributed to its growth. The area offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, restaurants, and other amenities.
While Wescosville has experienced significant changes over the years, there are still remnants of its agricultural past visible in the form of preserved farmland and historical landmarks. The community remains a vibrant part of Lehigh County and continues to play an important role in the region's development and growth.
Attractions
Wescosville, PA is a small unincorporated community located in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. While there may not be many specific attractions within Wescosville itself, there are several nearby locations that offer various attractions and activities. Here are some attractions in and around Wescosville, PA:
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
Located in Allentown, just a short drive from Wescosville, Dorney Park is a popular amusement park offering thrilling roller coasters, water rides, live entertainment, and a variety of dining options.
Bear Creek Mountain Resort
This nearby resort in Macungie offers skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and other winter activities during the colder months. In the summer, the resort provides outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and disc golf.
Da Vinci Science Center
Located in nearby Allentown, the Da Vinci Science Center is an interactive science museum that offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
Lehigh Valley Zoo
Situated in Schnecksville, just a short drive from Wescosville, this zoo houses a variety of animals and offers educational experiences, wildlife encounters, and seasonal events.
Allentown Art Museum
This museum in Allentown features a diverse collection of nearly 18,000 works of art, including American and European paintings, sculptures, textiles, and decorative arts.
PPL Center
Located in downtown Allentown, PPL Center is a sports and entertainment venue that hosts a range of events, including ice hockey games, concerts, and other live performances.
Trexler Nature Preserve
Situated in Schnecksville, Trexler Nature Preserve is a picturesque wildlife sanctuary that offers hiking trails, fishing, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.
These are just a few examples of attractions near Wescosville, PA. The region also offers a range of dining, shopping, and recreational activities for visitors to explore.
Climate
Wescosville, Pennsylvania, experiences a humid subtropical climate. This means that the region has distinct seasons throughout the year, with hot and humid summers and cold winters.
Summers in Wescosville are typically warm, with average high temperatures in the 80s to low 90s°F (26-33°C). However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures into the mid to high 90s°F (35-37°C). Humidity is quite high during this season, making the weather feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are also common during the summer months, bringing heavy rainfall.
Winters in Wescosville are cold and often snowy. Average high temperatures range from the upper 30s to low 40s°F (3-6°C), while nighttime lows can dip below freezing. Snowfall occurs regularly, with an average of 40-50 inches (102-127 cm) of snow per year. Cold air masses moving down from Canada can bring frigid temperatures, occasionally dropping into the single digits or even below zero Fahrenheit (-18°C).
Spring and fall in Wescosville are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. Spring sees a gradual increase in temperatures, with occasional rain showers. Fall brings cooler weather, with temperatures gradually decreasing until winter sets in.
Overall, Wescosville, PA, experiences a pleasant and diverse climate throughout the year. It offers warm and humid summers, cold and snowy winters, and mild and comfortable spring and fall seasons.
Neighborhoods
Wescosville is a small community located in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. While it is not divided into formal neighborhoods, there are several nearby areas that contribute to the overall character of the area. Here are some neighboring areas that impact life in and around Wescosville:
Allentown
Allentown is the largest city in the Lehigh Valley region, and it is located just a few miles west of Wescosville. As a nearby urban center, Allentown offers a plethora of amenities, shopping centers, cultural events, and employment opportunities.
Macungie
Macungie is a borough adjacent to Wescosville, located to the southeast. It is known as a historic small town with a charming downtown area. Macungie hosts various community events, including the popular annual Macungie Car Show.
Fogelsville
To the north of Wescosville lies Fogelsville, a small village with a rural ambiance. This area offers a mix of suburban and agricultural landscapes, including open fields and farms. Fogelsville is also home to the Valley Preferred Cycling Center, a velodrome that hosts bicycling events.
Trexlertown
Situated just south of Wescosville, Trexlertown is known for being home to the famous Lehigh Valley Velodrome. Additionally, it features a bustling commercial district with many shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a popular destination for residents of Wescosville.
Breinigsville
Located a few miles southwest of Wescosville, Breinigsville is a village that is primarily residential. It's known for its quiet atmosphere and a mix of housing options.
Overall, the neighborhoods surrounding Wescosville provide a range of diverse environments, from urban amenities to historic small-town charm, rural landscapes, and suburban living.