Priestley, Dr. Joseph, House
a.k.a. Cross Keys Inn;Priestley-Forsyth Memorial Library
100 King St., Northumberland, PA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1981.
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 Hershey Company, one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world, was founded in Hershey, Pennsylvania, in 1894.
During the Revolutionary War, Northumberland County played a crucial role as a gathering point for Continental soldiers. Sunbury, the county seat, served as a rendezvous for troops heading to battle. The county saw several military engagements, including the Battle of Fort Freeland in 1779, where local settlers defended against British and Native American forces.
In the early 19th century, Northumberland County became a prominent hub for transportation and industry. The Susquehanna River served as a vital trade route, with sunken barges carrying goods downstream. The county saw the rise of canal systems, such as the North Branch Canal, which facilitated trade and brought economic prosperity to the region. Additionally, the county witnessed the growth of coal mining, ironworks, and textile mills, leading to an influx of workers and the development of towns and cities.
Northumberland County also played an essential role in the development of the American railroad system. The Philadelphia and Reading Railroad, one of the earliest major railroads in the United States, extended its line through the county, transforming the region's transportation landscape. This expansion led to the growth of towns like Shamokin, which thrived as a result of the coal industry and the rail network.
Today, Northumberland County is home to a diverse population and offers a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and a vibrant community. It continues to honor its rich past while also embracing modern advancements, making it a fascinating destination for both residents and visitors alike.
Northumberland County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania.
- 1772 - Northumberland County is established.
- 1773 - The county is divided into three townships: Sunbury, Northumberland, and Augusta.
- 1777 - Fort Augusta is constructed to protect the local settlers during the American Revolution.
- 1785 - The county seat is relocated from Augusta to Sunbury.
- 1791 - The first bridge over the Susquehanna River is built in Northumberland County.
- 1800 - The county population reaches over 20,000.
- 1812 - The Sunbury and Erie Turnpike, the first public highway in central Pennsylvania, is completed.
- 1822 - Northumberland becomes part of the new Union County.
- 1855 - The county is reestablished, with a border revision that gives it its current shape and size.
- 1886 - The first electric streetcar system in the county is introduced in Sunbury.
- 1928 - The Veterans Memorial Bridge, a major crossing over the Susquehanna River, opens to the public.
- 1969 - The R. B. Winter State Park is established within the county.
- 2006 - The Joseph Priestley House in Northumberland County is named a National Historic Landmark.