Nestled along Scranton’s southeastern edge, East Mountain boasts a legacy that stretches back to the city’s earliest days. With sweeping vistas, beloved local landmarks, and a community spirit that feels timeless, East Mountain stands as both a proud testament to Scranton’s heritage and a vibrant, evolving neighborhood in its own right. Let’s take a journey through the rich history of East Mountain, and discover the milestones, places, and people who’ve shaped it over the decades.
Origins: From Wilderness to Neighborhood
Long before Scranton blossomed into the Electric City, East Mountain was just that—a rugged extension of the Pocono foothills rising steeply above the Lackawanna Valley. In the early 1800s, these wooded slopes formed a natural eastern boundary for the original settlement of Scranton, separating it from what would become the bustling heart of the city below.
The neighborhood’s name is beautifully literal: “East Mountain” refers both to the elevated geography and the sense of a discrete, self-contained world set apart from the city’s main grid. Early settlers were attracted by the fertile land, clean wells, and panoramic outlooks—advantages that remain part of East Mountain’s charm today.
Key Milestones in East Mountain History
East Mountain’s story is entwined with the growth of Scranton itself. As coal mining and railroads transformed the region in the late 19th century, East Mountain remained primarily residential and pastoral. It offered a peaceful alternative to the noise and soot downtown, making it a desirable spot for families, professionals, and a handful of Scranton’s prominent citizens.
Some landmark moments in East Mountain’s development include:
- Establishment of Nay Aug Park (1900s): Near the neighborhood’s western edge, Nay Aug Park quickly became a central recreational area for all Scrantonians. Its expansion brought more visitors up the steep grades of East Mountain, introducing many to the area’s natural wonders.
- Construction of Residential Streets: Roads like East Mountain Road, Crown Avenue, and Harrison Avenue became lifelines, connecting homes, schools, and churches. The post-WWII housing boom saw rapid new construction, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s.
- Creation of the East Mountain Golf Course (1960s): Sprawling across rolling hills off Lake Scranton Road, the East Mountain Golf Course added a new recreational focal point and transformed the landscape further, drawing golfers from across Northeast PA.
Notable Landmarks and Buildings
Every corner of East Mountain reflects its unique identity—welcoming, scenic, and deeply rooted in tradition. Some beloved local landmarks include:
Lake Scranton
Perhaps the most iconic feature of East Mountain, Lake Scranton and its surrounding walking path have long been favorites for walkers, joggers, and families. The lake, created as a reservoir in the late 1800s by William H. Scranton’s People’s Water Company, provides drinking water while offering a tranquil escape, with its 3.5-mile loop and stunning views across the water.
East Mountain Inn (Now Holiday Inn Scranton East)
Perched high on a bluff along Montage Mountain Road, the historic East Mountain Inn (now the Holiday Inn) has hosted countless celebrations, conferences, and family gatherings. Its panoramic windows frame views of the city below, making it a living symbol of the neighborhood’s elevated perspective—both literal and figurative.
St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church
On Minooka Avenue, St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church is a testament to the neighborhood’s diverse roots. Built by Eastern European immigrants, the church’s golden domes are a striking landmark and a hub for community life—hosting festivals, services, and cultural events for generations.
East Mountain Park and Shady Lane
Locals cherish the green spaces scattered across the neighborhood, with East Mountain Park and the serene Shady Lane providing room to gather, play, and relax. Old-growth trees and quiet picnic areas give a timeless, rustic feel just minutes from the city bustle.
Institutions and Community Hubs
East Mountain is home to several institutions that have played central roles in neighborhood life:
- Moses Taylor Hospital’s East Mountain Specialty Hospital: Serving the community’s healthcare needs, this facility is a reminder of the neighborhood’s commitment to caring for its residents.
- John Adams Elementary School: Generations have passed through the doors of this neighborhood school on Oram Street, establishing deep ties among East Mountain families.
- East Mountain Community Center: Hosting everything from scout troop meetings to senior exercise classes, the center is a lively gathering point for neighbors of all ages.
The Evolving Face of East Mountain
While East Mountain has held tight to its sense of identity, it has also adapted gracefully to changing times. Residential tastes have shifted—from stately early-20th-century homes along streets like Penn Avenue and Harrison Avenue to modern cul-de-sacs on the neighborhood’s fringes. Yet throughout its growth, East Mountain has resisted overdevelopment, preserving its woodlands and open spaces.
Today, the neighborhood is well-known for:
- Nature and Recreation: From sunrise hikes along the Lake Scranton trail to family picnics in local parks, outdoor fun remains central to life here.
- Community Spirit: Neighbors look out for one another. Block parties, local fundraisers, and annual holiday decorations turn quiet streets into vibrant celebrations of tradition.
- Proximity and Privacy: East Mountain offers both easy access to downtown Scranton and a peaceful, semi-rural ambiance, making it attractive to new generations of residents looking for “the best of both worlds.”
What Makes East Mountain Special
Ask any longtime local, and they’ll tell you: East Mountain is defined not just by its history, but by the warmth of its people and the beauty of its setting. Here, change happens at a gentle pace. Children still ride bikes beneath the maples on East Mountain Road, and families gather at Lake Scranton as the sun dips behind the hills.
In every season, East Mountain’s legacy shines through—in its well-tended homes, its leafy streets, and its enduring sense of belonging. For newcomers and natives alike, this neighborhood remains one of Scranton’s true hidden gems—rich not only in history, but in heart.