Honesdale

🏞️ Honesdale, Pennsylvania is a historic borough in Wayne County, often celebrated as the birthplace of the American railroad. Nestled in the northern Pocono Mountains, it blends small-town charm with deep industrial roots and vibrant community life.

🛤️ Historical Significance

Originally called Dyberry Forks, renamed in 1829 for Philip Hone, a former NYC mayor and president of the D&H Canal Company
Site of the Stourbridge Lion’s first run in 1829 — the first commercial steam locomotive on U.S. rails
Home to the Wayne County Historical Society Museum, which houses a full-scale replica of the Stourbridge Lion

🗺️ Geography & Setting

Located ~32 miles northeast of Scranton
Sits at the confluence of Dyberry Creek and the Lackawaxen River
Area: ~4.02 sq mi, with ~0.14 sq mi of water
Elevation: ~981 feet

👥 Demographics

Population: ~4,458 (2020 Census)
Median Age: ~42 years
Racial Makeup: ~96.8% White, ~2.8% Hispanic or Latino, with small percentages of Black, Asian, and multiracial residents
Median Household Income: ~$32,644
Poverty Rate: ~19.6%

🏘️ Community & Culture

Served by the Wayne Highlands School District
Local media includes the Tri-County Independent and radio stations like WDNH 95.3 FM
Birthplace of the children’s magazine Highlights for Children, founded in 1946
Hosts events at Central Park, including concerts, festivals, and seasonal celebrations