Museum Information
The Strouds
Local History Articles

Fort Penn played important role in local history

February 2013 |
In 1775, Jacob Stroud, a military veteran of the French and Indian War, was placed in charge of the Lower Smithfield Military Company. He began this post at the rank of captain and was ultimately promoted to colonel. One year later, Stroud was ordered by the executive council to build a stockade around his stone home. This fortified structure, which became part of Jacob Stroud’s command, was called Fort Penn. Read More...

Jacob Stroud: His likeness in famous painting?

June 2012 |
The name Jacob Stroud is well-known in Monroe County. Most citizens know that the town of Stroudsburg, which bears his name, was founded by this man. What no one knows, however, is what Jacob Stroud looked like. There are no known paintings, sketches, silhouettes, or drawings that directly depict Jacob Stroud, a surprising fact since Stroud was such an important figure in the development of the area. But there may be a painting in which Jacob Stroud can be incidentally found. Read More...

Converted Quaker Builds Faith in 1800s

November 2007 |
The Society of Friends, also known as Quakers, played an influential role in Monroe County’s history. The Quaker presence in Monroe County had its beginnings in Stroudsburg in the early 1800s. Read More...

Tanning Hides Once Big Business

September 2007 |
The tanning industry has been a part of Monroe County’s history since the early 1800s, thanks to the rich supply of both hemlock and oak trees. Monroe County residents would often take their animal skins to local tanners to be turned into workable leather ready for market. Read More...

History of Local Temperance Movement

August 2007 |
As early as the 1830s, Monroe County citizens became concerned with the effects of alcohol on the community. Public drunkenness and disorderly conduct were becoming more prominent. Read More...