The Pocono Mountains, often referred to simply as the Poconos, cover an area of approximately 2,400 square miles in northeastern Pennsylvania. This region is known for its stunning landscapes, including lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and the scenic Delaware Water Gap, carved by the Delaware River over millennia.

But beyond its natural beauty, the Poconos have a rich history dating back centuries. Native American tribes, including the Lenape and Iroquois, originally inhabited this region. European settlers began arriving in the late 17th century, bringing with them a new chapter in the area’s history. Over time, the Poconos became a hub for industries such as logging, coal mining, and tourism.

One of the most prominent aspects of the Pocono Mountains’ history is its connection to the American Revolution. The region played a crucial role during this pivotal period, serving as a battleground and a refuge for both American patriots and British loyalists. The region’s forests provided valuable resources for the Continental Army, and the Delaware River served as a strategic transportation route.

Visitors to the Poconos can explore numerous historic sites that harken back to this era, including the Minisink Battleground Park and Museum, where the Battle of Minisink unfolded in 1779. Additionally, the historic village of Milford offers a glimpse into colonial life with its charming architecture and museums.

A Quaint Riverside Town with a Rich Past

Just across the Delaware River from the Poconos lies Lambertville, New Jersey, a picturesque town that has preserved much of its 19th-century charm. Lambertville’s history is intertwined with the waterways that connect it to the Pocono Mountains and beyond.

In the 18th century, Lambertville was a bustling industrial town, known for its mills and factories, thanks to the water power provided by the Delaware River. The town played a significant role in the transportation of goods, with the Delaware and Raritan Canal being a vital link between Philadelphia and New York City.

Today, Lambertville’s historic district is a delightful place for history buffs to explore. Victorian-era homes line the streets, and the Lambertville Historic Society operates several museums and historic sites. The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park offers visitors the opportunity to walk or bike along the canal’s towpath, immersing themselves in the town’s history and natural beauty.

Where History and the Arts Collide

Just a stone’s throw away from Lambertville is New Hope, Pennsylvania, a town that shares a rich history with its New Jersey neighbor. New Hope is nestled along the banks of the Delaware River and has a long history of attracting artists and creatives.

The town’s history dates back to the 18th century, when it was known as Coryell’s Ferry. Like Lambertville, New Hope played a significant role in transportation, serving as a crucial river crossing point. Over the years, it evolved into a hub for artists and writers, including luminaries like Pearl S. Buck and Oscar Hammerstein II.

For history enthusiasts, New Hope offers a glimpse into the past through its historic homes and buildings. The Parry Mansion Museum, an elegant Federal-style mansion, showcases the town’s history and the people who shaped it. Additionally, the Bucks County Playhouse, originally a grist mill, has a storied history as a center for the performing arts, hosting famous actors and playwrights throughout the 20th century.

Exploring the Region’s Historic Landmarks

To fully appreciate the historical significance of the Pocono Mountains, Lambertville, and New Hope, history buffs can embark on a journey that connects these destinations through their shared past. Here are some must-visit landmarks and attractions that bridge these regions’ histories:

1. Washington Crossing Historic Park: Located not far from Lambertville and New Hope, this park commemorates George Washington’s famous crossing of the Delaware River in 1776. The visitor center provides valuable insights into this pivotal moment in American history.
   
   
2. Bowman’s Hill Tower: In nearby Washington Crossing, PA, visitors can climb Bowman’s Hill Tower for panoramic views of the Delaware River and surrounding landscapes. The tower is a monument to General George Washington’s famous crossing.
   
   
3. Howell Living History Farm: Located in Lambertville, this working farm offers a glimpse into rural life in the early 20th century. It’s a living history museum that immerses visitors in the agricultural practices of the past.
   
   
4. Bucks County Historical Society Museum: Situated in Doylestown, not far from New Hope, this museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Bucks County’s history, including its connections to Lambertville and New Hope.
   
   
5. The James A. Michener Art Museum: Located in Doylestown, this museum is named after the famous author James A. Michener, who had ties to the region. It houses a diverse collection of American art and offers insights into the area’s cultural history.
   
   
6. Pocono Indian Museum: Explore the Native American history of the Pocono Mountains at this museum in East Stroudsburg. It provides a fascinating look at the indigenous peoples who once inhabited the region.
   
   
7. New Hope Historical Society: This organization in New Hope is dedicated to preserving and sharing the town’s rich history. They offer walking tours and access to historic sites, providing a deeper understanding of the area’s past.
   
   

The Pocono Mountains, Lambertville, NJ, and New Hope, PA, collectively form a historic region that beckons to history buffs and curious travelers alike. Beyond the stunning natural landscapes, these areas are steeped in a rich and interconnected history that spans centuries.

The Pocono Mountains, with their roots in Native American heritage and significant contributions to the American Revolution, offer a compelling glimpse into our nation’s past. Meanwhile, Lambertville and New Hope, closely tied to the Delaware River and serving as vital trade and transportation hubs, have preserved their 18th-century charm while evolving into centers for the arts and culture.

Exploring this historic region is akin to embarking on a captivating journey through time, where every landmark, museum, and historic site weaves together the narratives of early settlers, soldiers, artists, and visionaries who have shaped the course of history. From the fields of the Minisink Battleground to the serene towpaths along the Delaware and Raritan Canal, from the elegant Parry Mansion Museum to the vibrant stages of the Bucks County Playhouse, history enthusiasts will find a wealth of stories waiting to be uncovered.

Why Choose Hyatus Stays?

Hyatus Stays offers a variety of unique accommodations in the Poconos, each with its own special charm. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin, a spacious lakefront home, or a luxurious mountaintop manor, Hyatus Stays has something to offer everyone.

Hyatus Stays also offers a variety of concierge services to make your stay as relaxing and enjoyable as possible. These services include grocery delivery, in-cabin massage, and transportation to and from local attractions.

If you’re looking for a comfortable and luxurious place to stay in the Poconos, Hyatus Stays is the perfect choice for you.