Great Island Path facts for kids
The Great Island Path was an important trail used by Native Americans in Pennsylvania. It stretched from a village called Shamokin (which is now Sunbury) along the West Branch Susquehanna River. The path went north and then west to a place called the Great Island, near what is now Lock Haven.
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What Was the Great Island Path?
The Great Island Path was a major route for Native Americans. It helped them travel, trade, and connect different communities. Imagine it like a highway of its time, but made by walking! This path was one of several important trails in Pennsylvania.
Starting the Journey: Shamokin Village
The path began at Shamokin village. This village was a busy Native American center. It was located near where the West Branch Susquehanna River meets the main Susquehanna River. Today, this area is near Sunbury.
Crossing the River and Following the Ridge
From Shamokin, the path crossed the river. It went over shallow rocks that are now covered by a dam. After crossing, the path went up a hill called Blue Hill. It then followed a ridge that forms the border between Snyder and Union counties.
Through Towns and Along the River
The path continued along the river, passing through areas that are now towns like Winfield and Lewisburg. It then crossed Buffalo Creek. After that, it curved back to the river and went through Shikellimy's town. This town was at the mouth of Sinking Run, which is now Shikellamy State Park. Much of this part of the path follows where U.S. Route 15 is today.
The Journey Through White Deer Valley
Next, the Great Island Path followed the river along the base of the hills. This led into the White Deer valley. At what is now the village of Allenwood, the path turned west.
Following White Deer Hole Creek
The path then followed White Deer Hole Creek into Lycoming County. It went along the south branch of the creek, near where the village of Elimsport is now. From there, it crossed over a mountain called North White Deer Ridge. This led into the Nippenose valley. The path went all the way to the end of this valley. Today, this part of the path is roughly where Pennsylvania Route 44 runs.
Reaching the Great Island
Finally, the path crossed into Clinton County. It went over hills and through a ravine in Bald Eagle Mountain. This ravine was formed by McElhattan Creek, and the Lock Haven Reservoir is there now.
The Final Ford to Great Island
After crossing the hills and ravine, the path reached the river. There was a place to cross the river by wading, called a fording. This crossing led directly to the Great Island. The Great Island is just east of the modern city of Lock Haven.
Other Important Paths
The Great Island Path was connected to other trails.
- The Great Shamokin Path followed the opposite bank of the river from Shamokin village. It continued further west from the Great Island to places like Clearfield and Kittanning.
- Culbertson's Path left White Deer Hole Creek. It followed Spring Creek north to modern Duboistown. From there, it crossed the river to connect with the Sheshequin Path which went north.
