Scranton (disambiguation) facts for kids
Scranton is a city in the state of Pennsylvania, United States. It is the county seat of Lackawanna County. Scranton is known for its history as a major industrial center, especially for coal mining and railroads. Today, it is a city with a focus on education, healthcare, and technology.
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What is Scranton, Pennsylvania?
Scranton is a city located in northeastern Pennsylvania. It is the sixth-largest city in the state. The city is built in a valley, surrounded by mountains. The Lackawanna River flows through Scranton. It is a place with a rich past, especially known for its role in the industrial growth of the United States.
A Look Back at Scranton's History
Scranton's story began in the late 1700s. It was first a small farming village. In the 1840s, the Scranton family and others started ironworks here. They used the large amounts of coal found nearby. This led to the city's rapid growth.
Scranton became a major center for coal mining. It was also important for making iron and steel. The city had many railroads that carried coal and goods across the country. By the late 1800s, Scranton was a busy and important industrial city. It was even called the "Electric City" because it was one of the first cities to have electric streetcars.
After the mid-1900s, the coal industry started to decline. Many mines closed. This caused the city to face challenges. However, Scranton has worked hard to rebuild its economy. It has focused on new industries and services.
Where is Scranton Located?
Scranton is in the northeastern part of Pennsylvania. It is about 100 miles (160 kilometers) northwest of New York City. It is also about 120 miles (190 kilometers) north of Philadelphia. The city is part of a region known for its beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and forests.
What Does Scranton Make?
Today, Scranton's economy is different from its past. It no longer relies on coal. Instead, it focuses on several key areas:
- Healthcare: The city has several hospitals and medical centers. They provide many jobs and services.
- Education: Scranton is home to universities and colleges. These include the University of Scranton and Marywood University. They bring students and faculty to the city.
- Technology and Services: Many companies in Scranton work in technology, customer service, and business support.
- Tourism: People visit Scranton for its history and attractions. These include museums and historical sites.
Fun Things to Know About Scranton
Scranton has several interesting places and facts:
- The Steamtown National Historic Site celebrates the city's railroad history. You can see old trains and learn how they worked.
- The Everhart Museum has collections of natural history, science, and art.
- The city hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. These bring the community together.
- Scranton is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong community spirit.
Other Places Called Scranton
The name "Scranton" is also used for a few other places in the United States:
- Scranton, Arkansas is a small city in Arkansas.
- Scranton, Iowa is a city in Iowa.
