Easton

Easton, Pennsylvania, is a city where history flows as freely as its three converging rivers. Situated at the confluence of the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers, with the Bushkill Creek also joining nearby, this strategic location, originally known as "Lechanwitauk" or "the Place at the Forks" by the Lenape Native Americans, has shaped its destiny from a colonial outpost to a thriving modern center.

Walk through Centre Square, and you are treading on ground where one of the first public readings of the Declaration of Independence took place in 1776. Beyond its pivotal role in early American history, Easton flourished as an industrial center, driven by its canals and railroads, which transported coal, iron, and silk. Today, Easton retains its historic character while embracing a lively arts and culinary scene, drawing visitors with its unique blend of past and present.

The Forks of Destiny: From Lenape Land to Colonial Crossroads

Easton’s story begins long before European settlement, with the Lenape people who called this strategic location "Lechanwitauk," meaning "the Place at the Forks," referring to the confluence of the Delaware and Lehigh Rivers. In 1736, Thomas Penn, son of Pennsylvania’s founder William Penn, surveyed this "Thousand Acre Tract" of land. The town was formally founded in 1752 and named Easton, and the surrounding county Northampton, after Thomas Penn’s wife Juliana Fermor’s home estate of Easton-Neston in Northamptonshire, England.

Centre Square, originally known as the Great Square, quickly became the heart of the burgeoning settlement. It served as a gathering place for residents and travelers and has hosted the Easton Farmers' Market, the oldest continuously operating open-air market in the country, since 1752. Easton’s significance during the American Revolution is profound; on July 8, 1776, it was one of only three places where the newly penned Declaration of Independence was publicly read. This momentous event is still celebrated annually with Heritage Day.

Industrial Might and Architectural Legacy

The 19th century ushered in an era of industrial prosperity for Easton. The completion of the Lehigh Canal in 1829 and the Delaware Canal in 1831 transformed Easton into a major water transportation center. This canal system facilitated the movement of anthracite coal, fostering the growth of tanneries, distilleries, and flour mills, and connecting Easton to Philadelphia and New York. The city’s industrial expansion attracted waves of immigrants, contributing to its diverse cultural fabric and leaving a legacy of impressive architecture, particularly evident in its historic district.

Throughout its history, Easton has demonstrated a commitment to preserving its past. In 2005, a Local Historic District was established to protect its architectural heritage. Today, Easton continues to evolve, blending its deep historical narrative with a modern energy, evident in its revitalized downtown, diverse culinary scene, and thriving arts community.

Begin your exploration in Centre Square, the historic core of Easton, where you can visit the Easton Farmers' Market (America’s oldest continuous open-air market) on Saturdays. Nearby, the Bachmann Tavern (1753) stands as the city’s oldest building, offering a glimpse into colonial life. The First United Church of Christ (1775) is another historical landmark, notable for its Revolutionary War service as a hospital.

For family-friendly fun, the Crayola Experience at Two Rivers Landing offers four floors of hands-on creative activities. Also within Two Rivers Landing is the National Canal Museum, where you can learn about America’s canal era and even take a mule-drawn canal boat ride on the Lehigh Canal. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Karl Stirner Arts Trail, a two-mile path along Bushkill Creek adorned with public art. Explore the Sigal Museum for a deeper dive into local history and artifacts. Attend a performance at the historic State Theatre Center for the Arts, an Easton institution since 1926.

The most pleasant times to visit Easton are during the late spring and early summer (mid-April to late June) and autumn (mid-September to late October). During these periods, temperatures are mild, and humidity is generally low, making it ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and walking tours. The autumn leaf season typically peaks in the last two weeks of October, offering picturesque scenery. Summers are warm, with average highs in the low 80s Fahrenheit, but can experience occasional heat waves and humidity. Winters are cold, with average highs in the mid to upper 30s.

Easton is accessible by car via Interstate 78 and PA Route 309. For those traveling from the Poconos, PA Route 33 provides a direct approach. Once in Easton, downtown is walkable, and many historic sites are within a few blocks of Centre Square. Parking is available, often in garages or street parking, though it’s always wise to check for specific event restrictions. The city has undertaken efforts to improve its downtown and transportation infrastructure. Public restrooms can be found in various public buildings and businesses. Many restaurants and attractions are wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to check with individual venues beforehand.