Culbertson's Path facts for kids
Culbertson's Path was an important Native American trail in central Pennsylvania. This path helped connect different areas. It linked the Great Island Path to the Sheshequin Path. The path started near the West Branch Susquehanna River. This spot is now the village of Allenwood in Union County. The path ended north of what is now Williamsport in Lycoming County.
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What Was Culbertson's Path?
Culbertson's Path was a route used by Native Americans. It helped them travel and trade across Pennsylvania. The path was named after a mill owner, Culbertson. Early settlers later used and widened parts of it.
Where Did the Path Go?
The path started in Allenwood. From there, it followed White Deer Hole Creek west. Then, it turned north to follow Spring Creek. It crossed over North White Deer Ridge and Bald Eagle Mountain. The path then followed Mosquito Run to the West Branch Susquehanna River. This part of the path ended near modern Duboistown.
At Duboistown, travelers would cross the river. They crossed at a spot called Culbertson's Ripples. This is now near the Arch Street Bridge. From Allenwood to Spring Creek, Culbertson's Path shared its route with the Great Island Path. The Great Island Path went west to Lock Haven. From there, other paths led even further west.
How Did It Connect to Other Trails?
After crossing the river, Culbertson's Path met the Great Shamokin Path. This path also led west towards Lock Haven. Culbertson's Path then went through a village called "French Margaret's Town." This village was on the west bank of Lycoming Creek, where Williamsport is today.
Culbertson's Path continued north from there. It reached Old Lycoming Township. Here, it joined the major Sheshequin Path. The Sheshequin Path went north along Lycoming Creek. It led towards the North Branch of the Susquehanna River. This path also connected to modern New York state. It was a route to reach the Iroquois people.
South of Allenwood, Culbertson's Path had more connections. Through the Great Island Path, travelers could reach Shamokin. This is modern Sunbury. There were also links to the Virginia Road and other paths.
Why Was It Important?
The path was originally narrow, wide enough for only one person. But early settlers in the White Deer Hole valley made it wider. They used the trail to take grain to Culbertson's mill on Mosquito Run. This is why they started calling it "Culbertson's Path."
Today, parts of this historic route still exist. There is a "Culbertson's Trail" for hiking. It goes over North White Deer Ridge and Bald Eagle Mountain. You can find it from Pennsylvania Route 554 to Duboistown. It's a great way to explore the history of the area.
