Berwick is a borough in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 10,247. It is located 28 miles southwest of Wilkes-Barre and 18 miles northwest of Bloomsburg.
Berwick was founded in 1769 and was incorporated in 1820. Berwick is situated on the eastern bank of the Susquehanna River and was historically known for its iron and steel industry.
Berwick has a rich cultural heritage, with strong German and Welsh influences. Every September, the town holds a three-day festival known as the Berwick Celebration, which includes live music, food, and a juried craft show. The town is renowned for its delightful specialty shops, delectable eateries, and historic landmarks like the Berwick Theatre and the Security savings Bank.
Visitors may go to the nearby riverside parks to appreciate the scenery. There are various historical buildings that may be found throughout Berwick's downtown area, including the Berwick Historic District, which encompasses the downtown area and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Bloomsburg Fair, which draws thousands of people every year, is another popular attraction. The fair is one of the largest and oldest fairs in Pennsylvania and features live music, entertainment, rides, food, and animal displays.
The people of Berwick are renowned for their warm hospitality and sense of community. The neighborhood frequently hosts cultural events, including festivals and fairs, and encourages people to interact.
The Spyglass Restaurant, which has been open for more than 40 years, is one of Berwick's renowned eateries. It is renowned for its mouthwatering cuisine that is motivated by the area. The restaurant's signature dish, the "Spyglass" sandwich, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The sandwich is prepared with Turkey, bacon, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on three slices of bread.
There are numerous various eateries in Berwick that provide cuisine ranging from traditional American fare to Mexican cuisine. The town also has a variety of restaurants and cafés that serve everything from freshly baked pastries to gourmet sandwiches.
In terms of history, Berwick takes great pride in its past. The first settlers in the region were of German and Welsh ancestry, and the community still shows their cultural impact today. The town has carefully kept many historic structures, such as the Berwick Historic District, a group of 273 contributing buildings that are included on the National Register of Historic Places. The district is made up of buildings that date to as far back as the late 18th century and are constructed in a range of designs, such as the Greek Revival, Italianate, and Second Empire.
Additionally, the town is home to several historic sites, including the Security savings Bank and the historic Berwick Theatre, both of which have undergone painstaking restorations in order to preserve their historic characteristics.
In conclusion, Berwick, Pennsylvania, is a charming town with a strong feeling of community, a rich history, and a variety of cultural events. There are several activities for both inhabitants and guests to enjoy in this riverfront town, from the annual Berwick Celebration to the delectable restaurants. The town's inhabitants take great joy in their history and cultural legacy, which is shown in the carefully preserved historical structures and landmarks.
These are just a few of the many attractions that make Berwick, Pennsylvania, a desirable tourist destination.