Located across the Lackawanna River from downtown Scranton, the West Scranton neighborhood – also known as “West Side” to locals – represents one of Scranton’s oldest and most established communities. This area, which includes the historic Hyde Park section, combines rich heritage, strong community ties, and traditional neighborhood design to create a distinctive district that maintains much of its original character while adapting to contemporary needs. With its walkable streets, historic churches, family-owned businesses, and diverse housing stock, West Scranton offers residents and visitors an authentic glimpse into the cultural tapestry that has defined Scranton for generations.
West Scranton’s history is deeply intertwined with the early development of Scranton. Hyde Park, a significant part of West Scranton, was originally established as a separate borough before merging with Providence and Scranton to form the City of Scranton in 1866. This history as a formerly independent community contributes to West Scranton’s strong sense of identity and neighborhood pride that continues to this day.
For over 65 years, the Scranton personal injury attorneys at Munley Law have proudly served the West 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 West Scranton residents’ challenges.
Historical Significance
West Scranton’s development reflects the broader industrial history of the region. The area was significantly shaped by the coal mining and manufacturing industries that dominated Scranton’s economy in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Hyde Park was officially established in the early 19th century, with Hon. William Merrifield named as its first burgess. Even after merging with Scranton in 1866, Hyde Park maintained a quasi-borough existence until 1887 to collect the bounty tax.
The neighborhood’s growth was closely tied to the waves of immigration that brought diverse populations to Scranton during its industrial peak. West Scranton became home to significant Irish, Welsh, German, Italian, and Eastern European communities, each contributing to the area’s rich cultural fabric. These immigrant groups established churches, cultural organizations, businesses, and social clubs that defined the neighborhood’s character, many of which continue to operate today.
West Scranton has produced several notable civic leaders throughout its history. Residents of West Scranton have filled the office of mayor on five different occasions, including historical figures like Hon. T.V. Powderly, Hon. John H. Fellows (a grandson of one of the founders), Hon. John F. Durkan, and Hon. Fred K. Derby.
Neighborhood Design and Character
One of West Scranton’s most distinctive features is its traditional neighborhood design, developed during the New Urbanism era. This design philosophy created a highly walkable community where residential blocks, schools, churches, and parks are conveniently close to each other. Approximately 29% of Scranton’s residents live in West Scranton, making it one of the city’s most populous districts.
The neighborhood is characterized by gridded streets lined with sidewalks and homes sitting close together. Many feature the wide front porches typical of early 20th-century architecture. These porches not only serve as architectural elements but also as social spaces that foster community interaction. The housing stock comprises single-family colonial-style homes, including Four Squares and Dutch Colonials. Many of these homes range from 1,000 to 2,000 square feet and showcase the craftsmanship and architectural details common to homes built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
North Main Avenue serves as West Scranton’s primary business and entertainment hub, providing residents convenient access to local businesses, restaurants, and services. This commercial corridor exemplifies the neighborhood’s balance of residential comfort and practical amenities, allowing residents to meet many of their daily needs within walking distance of their homes.
Cultural and Religious Heritage
West Scranton is known for its exceptional concentration of churches and religious institutions. As one historical account noted, “No other section of Scranton has more or a greater number of churches.” These diverse houses of worship represent the various ethnic and religious traditions that shaped the neighborhood’s development and continue to serve as community anchors today.
Among the notable religious landmarks is Saint Ann’s Monastery, which offers Mass services and is a significant cultural and architectural presence in the neighborhood. Simpson Methodist Church, established in the mid-19th century, represents one of the oldest Methodist congregations in the area. Washburn Street Presbyterian Church is recognized as the oldest Presbyterian Church in West Scranton. These institutions and numerous others representing Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant denominations create a rich tapestry of religious heritage that continues to influence community life.
The religious diversity of West Scranton reflects the immigrant communities that settled in the area during Scranton’s industrial heyday. Each group brought its traditions, celebrations, and cultural practices that have been preserved across generations. These traditions are celebrated today through community events, religious festivals, and cultural programs highlighting the neighborhood’s diverse heritage.
Community Resources and Amenities
West Scranton offers residents a variety of community resources and recreational opportunities. McDade Park, located on 180 acres of former coal mining terrain, provides extensive outdoor amenities, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a children’s fishing pond, open fields used for sledding in winter, and the Boundless Playground with accessible slides, swings, and climbing areas. The park is also home to the Lackawanna County Coal Mine Tour and the Anthracite Heritage Museum, which educate visitors about the region’s industrial heritage and immigrant cultures.
Other neighborhood parks include Sloan Little League Park and Tripp Park, which feature baseball diamonds and provide recreational spaces for residents of all ages. These green spaces serve as important gathering places for community events, sports activities, and casual recreation, enhancing the quality of life for West Scranton residents.
The West Scranton Hyde Park Neighborhood Watch actively works to “regain, restore, revitalize, and sustain” the neighborhood through community engagement, safety initiatives, and improvement projects. This organization serves as a conduit between residents and governmental agencies, addressing concerns and identifying opportunities to strengthen the community.
Dining and Shopping
West Scranton offers a variety of dining options that reflect its cultural diversity and traditional character. Local establishments provide everything from casual pub fare to international cuisine, creating a dining scene that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. Foliage Chinese Restaurant, noted for its 30+ years of operation under the same ownership, exemplifies the kind of long-standing, family-owned businesses that anchor the neighborhood’s commercial landscape.
While West Scranton has a selection of shops and services along North Main Avenue, residents also benefit from easy access to major shopping centers nearby. The neighborhood’s strategic location provides convenient connections to downtown Scranton’s more extensive shopping options and larger retail developments in adjacent communities.
The combination of local, independent businesses and nearby retail centers allows West Scranton residents to support neighborhood establishments while still having access to the broader range of goods and services available throughout the Scranton area.
Community Events and Initiatives
West Scranton’s strong sense of community is fostered through various events and initiatives that unite residents and celebrate the area’s cultural heritage. The Scranton Area Neighborhood Park Collaborative has developed programs like the Heritage Series, which features presentations on cultural heritage coupled with opportunities for storytelling and affirmation of shared values. Events in this series have included Turkish Coffee, Welsh Tea, Dominican Carnival, Irish Supper, and Italian Antipasto, highlighting the neighborhood’s diverse cultural influences.
These community gatherings celebrate West Scranton’s rich heritage and create opportunities for residents to engage in conversations about the neighborhood’s future. By bringing together people from different backgrounds and generations, these events strengthen community bonds and foster a shared sense of identity and purpose among West Scranton residents.
The Perfect Balance
What makes West Scranton special is its balance of historical character, community spirit, and practical amenities. The neighborhood connects residents to Scranton’s rich industrial and cultural heritage while providing the conveniences necessary for contemporary urban living. Its traditional urban design, with walkable streets and a mix of residential and commercial spaces, creates an environment that fosters community interaction and neighborhood pride.
West Scranton’s diverse housing stock, from historic homes to more modern residences, accommodates various lifestyles and budgets, making the neighborhood accessible to families, professionals, and retirees alike. The strong presence of community organizations, churches, schools, and local businesses provides a support network that enhances residents’ quality of life and creates a sense of belonging that is increasingly rare in many modern urban areas.
For visitors to Scranton, West Scranton offers an authentic glimpse into the city’s character beyond the more tourist-oriented downtown. By exploring its historic sites, sampling its local restaurants, and appreciating its architectural heritage, visitors can better understand the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Scranton throughout its history.
Contact Your Local Personal Injury Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in West 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
