Scranton, Pennsylvania
Geography
Scranton is located in the northeastern part of Pennsylvania, in the United States. It is the county seat of Lackawanna County and is situated in the Wyoming Valley with the Lackawanna River running through it. The city is approximately 120 miles northwest of Philadelphia and 150 miles east of Pittsburgh. Its geographical coordinates are 41.4089° N, 75.6624° W.
History
Scranton was incorporated as a city on April 23, 1866. However, its history dates back to 1778 when the first settlers arrived. The city was named after the Scranton family, who established the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad, a key factor in the city's early economic growth. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Scranton was known as the "Anthracite Capital of the World" due to its abundant anthracite coal, a type of hard coal that was heavily mined in the region.
Economy
The economy of Scranton has traditionally been based on coal mining, steel production, and railroads. However, in recent years, the city has shifted towards a more service-oriented economy. Key sectors now include healthcare, education, logistics, and retail. Major employers in the city include the University of Scranton, Geisinger Health System, and Lackawanna County government.
Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Scranton had a population of 76,089. The city's population is predominantly white, with significant African American, Hispanic, and Asian communities. The median age in the city is 38.5 years, and the median household income is $37,551.
Education
Scranton is home to several institutions of higher learning, including the University of Scranton, Marywood University, and Lackawanna College. The city's public school system is managed by the Scranton School District, which operates several elementary, middle, and high schools.
Culture
Scranton has a rich cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The city is known for its annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, which is one of the largest in the United States. Scranton also has a vibrant music scene, with many venues hosting live performances.
Transportation
Scranton is served by the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, which provides flights to several major U.S. cities. The city also has a comprehensive public transportation system, operated by the County of Lackawanna Transit System (COLTS). Major highways serving Scranton include Interstate 81, Interstate 84, and U.S. Route 6.