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Moravians
Local History Articles

Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg founded in the 1730s

November/2011/
The Borough of Stroudsburg’s history began in 1730 as Peter LaBar established his homestead, a log cabin, on the corner of present-day Main and Ninth Streets. Unfortunately, the log cabin is no longer standing. It was not until decades later, when Jacob Stroud purchased land in the area, that Stroudsburg emerged as a developed town. The area now known as East Stroudsburg has a rich and early history that dates back to the 18th century. East Stroudsburg was originally named Dansbury after Daniel Brodhead who settled there with his family in 1737. Read More...

Monroe County's off-the-beaten-path gems

April/2011/
If you think all you need to know about history you learned in junior high, think again. Monroe County has some history that is not only worth reading about but visiting, too. Here are some off-the-beaten-path places to visit. Read More...

Miniature holiday villages have rich history

December/2010/
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Many people today enjoy setting up a miniature village and/or nativity scene as part of their holiday decorations. This custom was embraced throughout central Europe, particularly in present-day Germany by the Moravians, a Protestant denomination. By the early 18th Century, many Moravians had left Europe for America and settled in the Lehigh Valley of eastern Pennsylvania. With them came the tradition of celebrating the nativity that was the inspiration for the Christmas “Putz.” Read More...

Dansbury Mission spreads Moravian ideals to East Stroudsburg

September/2009/
Dansbury Mission
The area now known as East Stroudsburg has a rich and early history. East Stroudsburg was settled by the Brodhead family in 1737, while Stroudsburg was not settled until Jacob Stroud purchased his first piece of land in 1769. Read More...

History of the Moravian Star

December/2008/
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During the holiday season, many families decorate their homes with a Moravian star. While these unique multi-pointed stars are beautiful, they also have a rich history. The star originated in the German towns of Niesky and Kleinwalka in the 1830s. The stars were used as craft projects to help demonstrate geometry lessons to young boys attending Moravian school. Read More...