Looking Back

Ann O’Hara
Posted 8/21/12

Originally part of Dyberry Township, Berlin Township was formed in November 1826. The earliest settlements were Beech Pond, Berlin Centre and Smith Hill. Originally called Beech Pond because of the …

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Looking Back

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Originally part of Dyberry Township, Berlin Township was formed in November 1826. The earliest settlements were Beech Pond, Berlin Centre and Smith Hill. Originally called Beech Pond because of the abundance of beech trees in the area, the community’s name became Beach Lake over the years. Samuel Smith, for whom Smith Hill was named, came here from Germany by way of New Jersey. Around 1830 immigrants from Cornwall and Devonshire in England began arriving, and many descendants of the original immigrants are still active citizens of Wayne County. Lumbering became a very profitable enterprise, followed, as was often the case, by tanning. The opening of the Delaware & Hudson Canal and the construction of new roads brought prosperity to Berlin Township, but it waned as the end of the 19th century approached. Tourism, however, replaced industry in the economy. Boarding houses and hotels sprang up to receive the eager summer visitors from the cities.

From the collection of the Wayne County Historical Society, 810 Main St., Honesdale. The museum and research library are open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a. m. to 4 p. m. and museum only 12 noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

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