Wyoming County, Pennsylvania
Geography
Wyoming County is located in the state of Pennsylvania. The county is situated in the northeastern part of the state, bordered by Susquehanna County to the north, Lackawanna County to the east, Luzerne County to the south, and Sullivan County and Bradford County to the west.
The county's landscape is dominated by rolling hills, lush greenery, and a number of rivers and streams. The Susquehanna River, one of the most significant rivers in the state, flows through the county, providing a vital water source for both residential and commercial use.
History
The history of Wyoming County is rich and complex, with its origins dating back to the early 18th century. The county was officially established on April 4, 1842, from part of Luzerne County. The county's name is derived from the Wyoming Valley, which is located in the southern part of the county.
The county has a significant historical connection to the American Revolutionary War, with the infamous Battle of Wyoming taking place in the Wyoming Valley in 1778. This battle, also known as the Wyoming Massacre, was a significant event in the county's history, resulting in the death of over 300 settlers.
Demographics
As of the 2010 United States Census, the population of Wyoming County was approximately 28,276. The county has a diverse population, with a mix of different ethnicities and age groups. The county's population has seen a slight decline in recent years, with the 2020 estimated population being around 26,794.
Economy
The economy of Wyoming County is diverse and robust, with several key industries contributing to its economic growth. The county's economy is primarily based on agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and education.
Agriculture plays a significant role in the county's economy, with a number of farms producing a variety of crops and livestock. The county is particularly known for its dairy farming, with several dairy farms producing a significant amount of the state's milk supply.
Manufacturing is another key industry in the county, with several manufacturing companies operating within the county. These companies produce a variety of goods, ranging from machinery and equipment to food products.
The healthcare and education sectors also contribute significantly to the county's economy, providing a large number of jobs for residents. The county is home to several hospitals and educational institutions, providing essential services to residents.
Education
Education in Wyoming County is provided by a number of public and private schools. The county is served by several school districts, including the Tunkhannock Area School District, which is the largest school district in the county.
In addition to primary and secondary schools, the county is also home to several higher education institutions. These include the Keystone College, a private liberal arts college located in La Plume.
Government and Politics
Wyoming County operates under a three-member county commission government system. The county commissioners are elected to four-year terms and are responsible for the administration of county government.
In terms of politics, Wyoming County has traditionally leaned towards the Republican Party, with a majority of residents voting for Republican candidates in recent presidential elections.
Transportation
Transportation in Wyoming County is facilitated by a number of highways, roads, and bridges. The county is served by several state highways, including Pennsylvania Route 29, Pennsylvania Route 92, and Pennsylvania Route 309.
Public transportation in the county is provided by the Wyoming County Transportation Authority, which operates a number of bus routes throughout the county.