Located across the President Biden Expressway from downtown Scranton, the South Side neighborhood represents a vital part of the Electric City’s history and cultural tapestry. From its early days as a neighborhood for industrial workers to its current status as a family-friendly residential area, South Scranton offers residents and visitors an authentic glimpse into the city’s industrial past and vibrant present.
South Scranton’s development is closely tied to Scranton’s industrial growth in the 19th and early 20th centuries. What is now known as the South Side was initially developed to house workers for the area’s iron mills, coal mines, and other industrial operations. The neighborhood’s industrial character remains evident today in the warehouses and light manufacturing facilities that can still be found along certain corridors, particularly South Washington Avenue.
For over 65 years, the Scranton personal injury attorneys at Munley Law have proudly served the South Scranton community. Our family-run law firm has helped generations of residents navigate personal injury claims and fight for the compensation they deserve after accidents or injuries. Our deep roots in Northeastern Pennsylvania give us unique insight into South Scranton residents’ challenges.
Historical Significance
One of South Scranton’s most historically significant areas is what was once known as “Shanty Hill,” now called the Nativity Section. This area started in the 1840s when the Lackawanna Steel Company built hundreds of small, one-story frame houses for ironworkers and their families. The neighborhood’s original name reflected the modest nature of these early worker dwellings.
The area’s history was transformed by the Reverend James A. O’Reilly, who took an interest in the Shanty Hill neighborhood and changed its name to “Nativity Place,” helping to modernize the area and make it “one of the desirable residential parts of Scranton.” This transformation included the establishment of Nativity of Our Lord Church, which grew from a small 35-by-25-foot frame structure to the imposing stone church with soaring spires that has watched over the neighborhood since the early 1900s. As Scranton’s oldest Catholic church, Nativity of Our Lord has served as a spiritual anchor for the community for over 175 years. However, it is currently facing potential closure as part of the Diocese of Scranton’s reorganization process.
Waves of immigration significantly influenced South Scranton’s development as the area attracted workers from various European countries to fill jobs in the growing industrial sector. These immigrant communities established their own churches, cultural organizations, and businesses, creating a rich mosaic of ethnic heritage that continues to influence the neighborhood’s character today.
Neighborhood Sections and Character
South Scranton is not a monolithic area but a collection of distinct sections, each with its character and history. The main sections include:
- Nativity Section: Named after Nativity of Our Lord Church, this area evolved from the original “Shanty Hill” worker community into a more established residential neighborhood.
- The Flats: A primarily residential section characterized by its relatively level terrain compared to the hilly parts of South Scranton.
- East Mountain: While technically considered part of South Scranton in some contexts, East Mountain has a distinct identity as a more elevated area adjacent to Lake Scranton, popular with nature lovers, joggers, and hikers.
- Minooka: Sometimes considered its neighborhood but also viewed as a section within South Side, Minooka occupies the southwestern part of Scranton.
South Scranton’s physical character reflects its working-class roots, with many homes dating back to the era when coal miners and other industrial workers lived in the area. The neighborhood features a mix of housing styles, predominantly single-family homes built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These modest but sturdy dwellings, often built close together, create a dense urban fabric that fosters a strong sense of community and walkability.
The neighborhood’s industrial heritage is visible in the warehouses and light manufacturing facilities along corridors like South Washington Avenue. As one local realtor described it, “It’s a little more industrial… There’s a lot of sheet metal places and manufacturing, as well as old homes where coal miners used to live.” This blend of residential and light industrial use gives South Scranton a distinctive character that sets it apart from other areas of the city.
Community Resources and Amenities
South Scranton offers residents a variety of community resources and recreational opportunities. Several parks serve the neighborhood, providing spaces for outdoor activities and community gatherings. Connors Park on Orchard Street features a gazebo and playground equipment, offering families a convenient place for children to play. Cornell Park and Harmon Field host little league baseball games on weekends, bringing the community together around America’s pastime.
The neighborhood is served by three elementary schools and South Scranton Intermediate School, providing educational opportunities within walking distance for local children. While high school students attend Scranton High School on the north side of downtown, the presence of these local schools contributes to South Scranton’s appeal as a family-friendly area.
South Scranton’s walkable design means residents are never far from convenience stores, corner delis, and neighborhood bars. For larger shopping needs, residents typically visit Ctown near downtown or Gerrity’s Supermarket located in a small shopping center near the I-81 and Biden Expressway interchange. The neighborhood’s proximity to downtown Scranton (about 5-10 minutes away) provides easy access to a broader range of shops, restaurants, museums, and other attractions, including The Marketplace at Steamtown with its various retailers and the Scranton Public Market food hall.
South Scranton’s central location and access to major roadways, including Interstate 81 and the President Biden Expressway, facilitate transportation. These connections make it convenient for residents to reach other parts of Scranton and the broader region for work, shopping, and entertainment.
Dining and Local Businesses
South Scranton hosts a variety of dining establishments that reflect its working-class character and diverse cultural influences. Local favorites include:
- Zaleski’s Clubhouse Cafe: A popular neighborhood gathering spot known for its classic pub fare and welcoming atmosphere.
- Kelly’s Pub & Eatery: Another local establishment offering casual dining and drinks.
- Sacco’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant: Serves neighborhood residents with Italian cuisine and pizza.
- Poor Richard’s Pub: While familiar to fans of “The Office” television series, this establishment has served the community for years.
- South Side Seafood: A local seafood market and restaurant offering fresh options for seafood lovers.
The neighborhood also features a mix of corner stores, convenience marts, and specialty shops that serve residents’ daily needs. Places like Flannery Case Beverages and Gerrity’s Supermarkets provide groceries and necessities, while small independent businesses offer personalized service and contribute to the area’s distinct character.
For fitness enthusiasts, options like Electric City Hot Yoga offer physical activity and wellness opportunities within the neighborhood.
Cultural and Religious Heritage
South Scranton’s cultural identity has been significantly shaped by the various immigrant groups that settled in the area during Scranton’s industrial heyday. These communities established churches, cultural organizations, and traditions that continue influencing neighborhood life.
Religious institutions have played an important role in South Scranton’s development and community life. Nativity of Our Lord Church, established in the 1840s, is the oldest Catholic church in Scranton and has been a spiritual and community anchor for generations of South Scranton residents. The church’s imposing stone structure with its soaring spires has been a neighborhood landmark since the early 1900s. However, it faces potential closure as part of the Diocese of Scranton’s reorganization.
These churches serve as places of worship and community centers that host cultural events, educational programs, and social services. They provide spaces where residents can celebrate their heritage, maintain traditions, and connect with neighbors with similar backgrounds.
The Perfect Balance
South Scranton’s balance of working-class authenticity, community spirit, and practical amenities makes it special. The neighborhood connects residents to Scranton’s industrial past while providing the conveniences necessary for contemporary urban living. Its relatively affordable housing stock makes it accessible to families, young professionals, and retirees seeking a community-oriented environment close to downtown resources.
South Scranton’s walkable design, with corner stores, neighborhood restaurants, and parks within easy reach of most homes, creates a village-like atmosphere within the larger city. The strong presence of schools, churches, and local businesses provides a support network that enhances residents’ quality of life and fosters a sense of belonging.
For visitors to Scranton, South Scranton offers an authentic glimpse into the city’s working-class heritage and cultural diversity. By exploring its historic churches, sampling its local restaurants, and appreciating its architectural character, visitors can better understand the forces that have shaped Scranton throughout its history.
In South Scranton, one can find echoes of the immigrant experience, industrial heritage, and community resilience that have defined Scranton for generations. Whether viewed as a living museum of industrial-era urban development or as a vibrant, evolving community adapting to contemporary challenges, South Scranton is a vital component of the Electric City’s identity and future.
Contact Your Local Personal Injury Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in South Scranton or anywhere in the Scranton area, the experienced legal team at Munley Law is here to help. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and explain your options. There’s never a fee unless we win your case. Our attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
Don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Munley Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are ready to review your case, explain your options, and help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys
227 Penn Ave.
Scranton, PA 18503
(570)865-4699
