Wilkes Barre | USA Pennsylvania

Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania – Detailed Overview

General Information

Location: Luzerne County, northeastern Pennsylvania, in the Wyoming Valley

Population: About 44,000 (2020 census)

Geography: Located along the Susquehanna River, roughly 15 miles south of Scranton

Historical Background

Founded: 1769 by Connecticut settlers during colonial land disputes (Pennamite-Yankee Wars)

Industrial Growth: Became a major center for anthracite coal mining in the 19th and early 20th centuries, fueling regional economic growth.

Decline: Coal industry collapse in the mid-20th century led to economic challenges and population decline.

Revitalization: Recent efforts focus on downtown redevelopment, healthcare expansion, and education.

Demographics

Ethnic Composition: Predominantly White, with growing Hispanic and African American communities.

Population Trends: Experienced population decline since the coal era, but stabilizing due to redevelopment.

Economy

Past: Dominated by coal mining and related industries.

Present: Healthcare, education, retail, and small manufacturing sectors drive the economy.

Major Employers:

Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine

Wilkes University

Luzerne County government and healthcare facilities

Culture and Attractions

F. M. Kirby Center: Historic theater hosting concerts, plays, and community events.

Mohegan Sun Arena: Venue for sports, concerts, and conventions.

Nesbitt Park: Popular riverside park along the Susquehanna River.

Annual Events: Includes community festivals, farmers’ markets, and cultural celebrations.

Wilkes University: Provides a hub for education and cultural activities.

Education

Public Schools: Wilkes-Barre Area School District

Higher Education: Wilkes University and Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine

Transportation

Roads: Access via Interstate 81 and U.S. Route 11.

Public Transit: Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) bus system.

Rail: No passenger rail service currently; nearest Amtrak stations in Scranton or Harrisburg.

Airports: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport serves the area.

Notable Facts

Wilkes-Barre played a key role in America’s industrial coal era.

The city has a strong community focus on arts and education to drive revitalization.

It sits in the scenic Wyoming Valley, surrounded by hills and river landscapes.