For those interested in learning more about Wilkes-Barre, the city has a rich and diverse history. The confluence of history, art, culture and industry has made this city unique. What should you know about the city of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania?
Wilkes-Barre Demographics
Over the years, Wilkes-Barre has been a hotbed of activity. During the early portion of the Industrial Revolution, the city was home to an enormous coal mining industry. This led to the influx of tens of thousands of immigrants. Today, the city is home to a considerable population from numerous ethnicities and cultures.
The Wilkes-Barre population figures show that the city has a population of almost 50,000 residents. However, the metropolitan area of which the city is a part has a population of almost 600,000 people, though this figure includes several nearby cities and townships, including Scranton and Dallas.
The population of the city is predominantly white (upwards of 92%), though a considerable number of residents are also African American or Native American. These are the two largest minorities in town, though those of Asian descent and Pacific Islanders also call the city home.
A Brief History of Wilkes-Barre
The area in which the modern city now stands has been home to human activity for thousands of years. Initially, it was home to the Shawnee and Delaware Indians. The first European settlers arrived in 1769, when the city was founded. In addition, the city was originally on land disputed between both Pennsylvania and Connecticut – a dispute that eventually lead to bloodshed.
The Industrial Revolution brought prosperity to the city in the form of coal mining, though the industry eventually collapsed with the focus on a change in fuel types in the 20th century. However, coal mining still plays a large part in the culture of the city and with its residents.
Wilkes-Barre Today
Today, the city of Wilkes-Barre has changed with the times. After weathering serious flooding, the collapse of the mining industry and a reduction in the population, the city has moved back on top of things. The city boasts a renowned education system, as well as a thriving business sector. In addition, the city has embarked on numerous revitalization projects intended to revamp downtown. Visitors will also find that the city is now home to a wide range of entertainment options, cultural attractions and historic sites spread throughout the downtown and the surrounding area.
