Sunbury, Pennsylvania
A Northumberland County Treasure
Confluence of the West and North Branches of the Susquehanna River
Founded in 1772, the city of Sunbury has a rich history, from its days as a Native American village and frontier fort to today. Due to its location at the confluence of the North and West Branches of the Susquehanna River, the City has long served as a regional transportation and industrial hub. Its picturesque downtown, historic district and vibrant neighborhoods make Sunbury a unique place to visit.
Sunbury evolved from an important Native American center to a British built frontier outpost and then in 1772 became a proprietary town; the last one designated and laid out in Pennsylvania. John Lukens surveyed the land and planned the town for the heirs of William Penn who owned the property and sold the original lots. Sunbury serves as the county seat of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania's 10th county, also formed in 1772.
A port on the Pennsylvania Canal and a major railroad center, Sunbury bustled with the activity of many successful industrial ventures, which also spawned a thriving business district as well as residential growth.
More than 20 houses of worship are located in the City, some with congregational history dating back to the mid-1780s. Sunburians have always had a strong sense of civic engagement and developed volunteer fire departments, recreation areas, and a public library and continue to serve their community through various fraternal and service organizations.
Things to See and Do
