Hazleton, PA
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Museums
- Sport and Local Recreation
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
Hazleton, known as "The Mountain City," is located in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. Incorporated as a city in 1891, its history and development are deeply rooted in the anthracite coal industry, which attracted a diverse wave of immigrants and fueled America's industrial growth.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Hazleton (English)
- Administrative Role: Hazleton is a city and the second-most populous city in Luzerne County . It operates under an optional plan municipality form of government . It is not a county seat; that title belongs to Wilkes-Barre.
- Location: The city is located in Luzerne County, in the state of Pennsylvania, United States. It is situated in the northeastern part of the state, often referred to as Northeastern Pennsylvania, approximately 35 miles (56 km) northwest of Allentown . The region is historically known for its rich deposits of anthracite coal, which were instrumental in powering the American Industrial Revolution .
Historical Names and Nicknames
Hazleton is known by several nicknames that reflect its geography, history, and character:
- The Mountain City: This is the most common nickname, derived from its location on a broad plateau of Buck Mountain in the Appalachian range .
- The Power City: This nickname emerged in 1891 when Hazleton became one of the first three cities in the United States to establish a citywide electric grid, a remarkable feat for its time .
- Mob City: This less flattering nickname dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period of significant labor unrest in the anthracite coal region, including the infamous Lattimer Massacre near the city .
- Hazel Swamp / St. Anthony's Wilderness: These were the names used by early Moravian missionaries and settlers for the wilderness area that would eventually become Hazleton, named for the abundance of hazel trees and its swampy, undeveloped character .
Date of Foundation and Age
- First Settlement: The first building in what would become Hazleton was a rest stop and tavern built by entrepreneur Jacob Drumheller in 1809 at the intersection of two major roads .
- Official Incorporation: Hazleton was incorporated as a borough on January 5, 1857. The name was intended to be "Hazelton," but a clerical error during the incorporation process led to the current spelling . It was later incorporated as a city on December 4, 1891 .
- Age: Based on its first settlement in 1809, the city is 217 years old as of 2026. Based on its incorporation as a city, it is 135 years old.
- Founder: While Jacob Drumheller was the first permanent settler, Ariovistus "Ario" Pardee is regarded as the founding father of Hazleton. He purchased the land, incorporated the Hazleton Coal Company in 1836, laid out the town, and was instrumental in its early development .
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 40°57′32″N 75°58′28″W .
- Location and Terrain: Hazleton is situated in the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians, on a broad plateau on Buck Mountain . The city is positioned atop a significant watershed divide; rainwater from different parts of the city flows in nearly opposite directions toward either the Lehigh River or the Susquehanna River .
- Elevation: The center of the city is at a high elevation of 1,689 feet (515 meters) above sea level, making it one of the highest incorporated cities in Pennsylvania .
- Geographical Type: Hazleton is a mountain city and a historic coal town.
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Historic Specialization: Hazleton was a quintessential industrial and mining center. Its entire economy and identity were built around the mining of anthracite coal from the 19th to the mid-20th century . The city was a hub for the industry, with numerous surrounding "patch towns" built to house miners .
- Current Specialization: Following the decline of the coal industry, Hazleton's economy diversified into manufacturing, including textiles (silk mills, knitting mills) and other light industry . Today, it also functions as a regional commercial and service center for the surrounding communities in Luzerne County.
Population and Demographics
- Population: According to the 2020 census, the population of Hazleton is 29,963 .
- Size Class: Hazleton is a small city.
- Demographic Features: Hazleton has a rich history as an immigrant city. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, it was a destination for German, Irish, Italian, Polish, Russian, Lithuanian, Slovak, and other immigrants who came to work in the coal mines . This diverse heritage has shaped the city's cultural identity.
"City's Signature" (Briefly)
Hazleton, "The Mountain City," is a historic community in northeastern Pennsylvania whose identity was forged in the anthracite coal era. Perched high in the Appalachians, it offers a glimpse into America's industrial past, from the legacy of immigrant miners to its pioneering days as an early "Power City."
Geography
Mountains and Ranges
- Buck Mountain (Nescopeck Mountain): Hazleton is built on a broad plateau of Buck Mountain, a spur of the Blue Mountains (part of the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians) . This location defines the city's high elevation and gives it its "Mountain City" nickname . The mountain is not a single peak but a ridge that forms part of the local topography.
- Broad Mountain: To the south of the city lies Broad Mountain, another significant ridge in the Appalachian chain. The terrain between these ranges historically contained the coal basins that were heavily mined .
Water Objects (Rivers, Creeks)
- Hazle Creek: This stream originates within the east-side neighborhoods of Hazleton . It is a tributary source of Black Creek, which flows into the Lehigh River. Historically, its banks hosted trails and early roads. Due to extensive underground mining, much of its original surface drainage has been altered, with water infiltrating abandoned mines .
- Nescopeck Creek: Located near the city, this creek was a vital waterway for early settlers and Native Americans. The Moravians established an early settlement, St. Johns, along its banks near the present-day intersection of Interstates 80 and 81 . The Nescopeck Path, a Native American trail, ran alongside it .
- Black Creek: This creek is formed by the confluence of Hazle Creek and Beaver Creek, south of Hazleton. It is a major regional tributary on the north side of Broad Mountain .
- Watershed Divide: Hazleton sits on a unique geographical point. At certain street intersections, rainwater flows in nearly opposite directions—north and south—towards the Susquehanna River and the Lehigh River, demonstrating its position on a mountain plateau .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Hazleton has a humid continental climate (Köppen: Dfb) , characterized by warm, wet summers and cold, snowy winters . Due to its high elevation (over 1,600 feet), it is significantly cooler and snowier than many other parts of Pennsylvania. The weather is quite variable and can change rapidly. It is a generally cloudy region, especially in winter .
Average Temperatures by Month
The climate features a wide annual temperature range. The figures below show average daily high and low temperatures .
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 32°F (0°C) | 19°F (-7°C) |
| February | 35°F (2°C) | 20°F (-7°C) |
| March | 45°F (7°C) | 28°F (-2°C) |
| April | 57°F (14°C) | 38°F (3°C) |
| May | 67°F (19°C) | 48°F (9°C) |
| June | 75°F (24°C) | 56°F (13°C) |
| July | 79°F (26°C) | 61°F (16°C) |
| August | 77°F (25°C) | 59°F (15°C) |
| September | 69°F (21°C) | 52°F (11°C) |
| October | 58°F (14°C) | 41°F (5°C) |
| November | 47°F (8°C) | 32°F (0°C) |
| December | 36°F (2°C) | 24°F (-4°C) |
- Hottest Month: July, with an average high of 79°F (26°C) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average low of 19°F (-7°C) .
- Record Temperatures: While specific records aren't in the search results, the temperature rarely drops below 3°F or rises above 87°F .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: Precipitation is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The wettest months are typically from April to August, with June being a particularly wet month, averaging 11.6 days with precipitation . The average rainfall in September is 3.8 inches, the highest for the year .
- Snowfall: Hazleton experiences extreme seasonal variation in snowfall. The snowy period lasts from late October to mid-April. The month with the most snow is February, with an average accumulation of 11.6 inches. The total average snowfall for January is 11.5 inches, and December sees 9.3 inches .
- Wet Days: The chance of a wet day peaks in June at 39% (11.6 days). The driest months are January and February, with about 6.5 days of precipitation, much of which falls as snow .
Sunny Days and UV Index
- Cloud Cover: The cloudiest months are December through February, with cloud cover around 56-59%. The clearest skies are from late June through October, with September being the sunniest month (63% sunny/partly sunny days) .
- Daylight: Day length varies significantly, from 9.3 hours in late December to 15.1 hours in late June . The UV index is moderate for most of the year but can reach moderate to high levels during the summer months.
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Spring is a season of transition, with temperatures warming from chilly to mild. It starts with a mix of rain and snow in March and becomes rainier by May . It can be unpredictable.
- Summer (June-August): Summer is warm, pleasant, and the wettest time of year. July is the warmest month with comfortable high temperatures around 79°F (26°C) . This is the best time for outdoor activities, though afternoon thunderstorms are common.
- Autumn (September-November): Autumn is arguably the best time to visit. September is often the sunniest and most pleasant month . October brings crisp, cool air and the beauty of fall foliage. November signals the return of colder weather and the first snowfalls.
- Winter (December-February): Winter is cold, cloudy, and snowy . It is ideal for those who enjoy winter scenery and activities, but travel can be impacted by snow and ice.
Landmarks
Eckley Miners' Village
Located just outside Hazleton, Eckley Miners' Village is a preserved 19th-century coal mining patch town . It was built by coal companies to house immigrant miners and their families . Today, it serves as a museum where visitors can explore authentic miners' homes, a company store, and a church, offering a powerful and immersive look into the lives of the people who powered the anthracite industry . It was also used as a filming location for the movie "The Molly Maguires."
The Frederick Stegmaier Mansion
This elegant Victorian mansion in Hazleton is a testament to the wealth generated by the area's industrial past . It was built for Frederick Stegmaier, a prominent local brewer. Today, it operates as a unique venue for gourmet dining, events, and tours, blending Victorian charm with modern culinary experiences .
Historic Sites Nearby
While not in Hazleton proper, several significant historic sites are within a short drive and are closely tied to the region's heritage:
- Anthracite Heritage Museum: Located in Scranton, this museum tells the broader story of the people, industry, and culture of northeastern Pennsylvania's anthracite region .
- Lackawanna County Coal Mine Tour: Also in Scranton, this attraction offers a genuine underground tour of a former anthracite coal mine, allowing visitors to experience the miners' working conditions firsthand .
- Steamtown National Historic Site: A U.S. National Historic Site in Scranton dedicated to the history of steam railroading, which was essential for transporting anthracite coal .
- Historic Scranton Iron Furnaces: The remains of massive iron furnaces that once used anthracite coal to produce iron, showcasing the region's industrial might .
Hazleton Historical Society Museum
For those interested in local history, the Hazleton Historical Society Museum is the place to go. It houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that preserve and showcase the unique story of Hazleton, from its Native American trails and coal mining boom to its evolution as a modern city .
Transport
Major Airports and Region
Hazleton does not have its own commercial airport. Travelers use several airports in the region . The closest major airport is Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) , located about 39 miles away . However, other airports offer more flight options.
- Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP): 39 miles away, the closest airport with commercial service .
- Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE): Located in Allentown, about 42 miles from Hazleton .
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): A major international airport in New Jersey, about 96 miles away (approx. 154 km) . It is a common choice for travelers seeking more flight options and connections, with bus services available from the airport to Hazleton .
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Approximately 84 miles away (approx. 135 km) .
- Harrisburg International Airport (MDT): About 66 miles away (approx. 107 km) .
Major Highways
Hazleton is a regional transportation hub due to its location at the intersection of two major interstate highways.
- Interstate 81 (I-81): A major north-south interstate that runs through the eastern United States, connecting the area to Scranton and Binghamton to the north, and Harrisburg to the south.
- Interstate 80 (I-80): A major east-west transcontinental highway that runs through the United States. It provides direct access to western states like California, as well as to New York City and New Jersey to the east .
- Pennsylvania Route 93 (PA 93): A state highway that follows the historic "Warrior's Trail," connecting the Lehigh Valley to the Susquehanna River region and passing through Hazleton .
Museums
Hazleton Historical Society Museum
The primary institution for local heritage is the Hazleton Historical Society Museum, located downtown at 55 N Wyoming Street . This museum is dedicated to preserving the story of the city and its people . Its collection is a treasure trove of local memorabilia, with a strong focus on the region's industrial backbone, featuring exhibits on anthracite coal mining. Visitors can also explore artifacts from Pennsylvania's native peoples, as well as antique tools, maps, photographs, and historical documents that chart the area's development .
A unique feature of the museum is its outdoor garden, which includes a memorial dedicated to the city's first responders and a replica of the old Hazleton Fire Station . For those researching family history, the museum houses a genealogy branch within its research library, offering access to an archive of local newspapers . The museum is open from Tuesday through Friday and offers free admission, though donations are welcome .
Sport and Local Recreation
Local Sports Facilities
Hazleton offers several venues for both organized sports and community recreation. A key facility is the Drifton Sports Complex, located at 812 West 10th Street. This complex features four lighted baseball and softball fields and has been a regular host for state and regional tournaments since 1982, making it a hub for amateur sports in the area .
For everyday recreation, the city's parks department maintains facilities like the Beech Street Park/Playground. This 4.4-acre park at 200 East Beech Street provides a variety of amenities, including basketball courts, tennis courts, pickleball courts, a hockey rink, covered picnic tables, and a playground, catering to a wide range of interests .
Collegiate Athletics: Penn State Hazleton
Higher education sports are represented by Penn State Hazleton, a Commonwealth Campus of the Pennsylvania State University located just outside the city in Sugarloaf Township . The campus fields eight varsity teams that compete in the Pennsylvania State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC) and the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) .
Men's sports at Penn State Hazleton include baseball, basketball, golf, soccer, and tennis. Women's teams compete in basketball, golf, softball, tennis, and volleyball . The campus offers top-notch athletic facilities for its students, including a newly renovated gymnasium, outdoor sports courts, fields, a swimming pool, and a fitness center .
Universities and Academic Institutions
Penn State Hazleton: A Campus with a View
Higher education in the Hazleton area is centered at Penn State Hazleton. Established in 1934 during the Great Depression, it began as the Hazleton Undergraduate Center to make college education more accessible . Today, it sits on a scenic 125-acre campus in nearby Sugarloaf Township, overlooking the Conyngham Valley .
The campus offers a student-centered experience with a low 12:1 student-faculty ratio . Students can begin their journey toward any of Penn State's 275+ majors through the 2+2 Plan, completing the first two years at the Hazleton campus before moving to another location to finish their degree. The campus also offers 13 baccalaureate and 5 associate degrees that can be completed entirely in Hazleton .
The campus is notable for its historic roots, having found a permanent home in 1948 at the "Highacres" estate, the former residence of coal baron Eckley B. Markle. The 32-room fieldstone mansion, built by Alvan Markle Sr., now serves as the iconic administration building and is a symbol of the campus. It is complemented by a three-fourths scale replica of the famed Nittany Lion statue .
Student life is vibrant, with over 24 clubs and organizations, and the campus is deeply involved in THON, the world's largest student-run philanthropy, having raised millions for childhood cancer research .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
HNL Lab Medicine
For diagnostic and laboratory services, residents of Hazleton are served by HNL Lab Medicine. In early 2024, HNL Lab Medicine relocated its patient service center from West Broad Street to a new, more accessible location at the Grand Central Shopping Center (70 S. Locust St.) .
This facility is open six days a week and is notably designated as a pediatric specialty location. This means the phlebotomists on staff have undergone additional training specifically to provide a child-friendly and compassionate experience for young patients requiring blood work or other diagnostic tests . While information on full-service hospitals within Hazleton's immediate downtown was not found in the search results, HNL Lab Medicine represents a key specialized healthcare provider in the community.