Carbondale City Hall and Courthouse
a.k.a. Carbondale Municipal Building
One N. Main St., Carbondale, PA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The discovery of anthracite coal in the area in the early 19th century led to a rapid growth of the coal mining industry, making Lackawanna County a crucial player in the Industrial Revolution. The region became known as the "Coal Capital of the World," attracting thousands of workers from various ethnic backgrounds. Along with the mining industry, iron and steel works also flourished, further contributing to the county's economic growth.
During the 20th century, Lackawanna County faced challenges as the demand for coal declined and many coal mines closed. However, efforts were made to diversify the economy, leading to the establishment of industries such as education, healthcare, and manufacturing. The area also became a major hub for transportation, with the construction of highways, railways, and an international airport.
In recent years, Lackawanna County has continued to evolve and adapt to changing times. The county's rich cultural heritage is celebrated through numerous festivals, museums, and historical landmarks. The region's natural beauty, including the Pocono Mountains, provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. Today, Lackawanna County remains a vibrant community with a blend of historical charm, industrial heritage, and a vision for the future.
Lackawanna County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania.
- 1786: Lackawanna County was formed from part of Luzerne County.
- 1840: The Delaware and Hudson Canal opened, connecting the county to the Hudson River.
- 1851: The Scranton Iron Furnaces were built, establishing the county as an industrial center.
- 1877: The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 occurred in the county, leading to violent clashes between workers and authorities.
- 1896: Electric streetcars were introduced in the city of Scranton.
- 1902: The Knox Mine Disaster, a mining accident, resulted in the flooding of several mines and the loss of many lives.
- 1926: The Scranton-Lackawanna Airport was opened.
- 1958: The Steamtown National Historic Site was established, preserving the region's railroad heritage.
- 1976: The Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour opened to the public as a tourist attraction.