Viewing the Past of Catasauqua, PA

Learn more about the borough and its history by reading the following article presented by the personal injury attorneys in Catasauqua, PA, at Justice Guardians.

Catasauqua

The borough of Catasauqua, also known as Catty, is located in the eastern region of Lehigh County in the state of Pennsylvania. The 851.2-acre town is north of Fullerton and south of Hokendauqua. Hanover is to the borough's east, and the Lehigh River flows along the western border. 

Early History

In 1768, George Taylor, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, built his estate in the community. The Georgian stone house, known as the George Taylor House, is a National Historic Landmark within the borough and showcases the neighborhood's rich historical heritage.

Initially, the area was known as Biery's Port, but in 1840, the anthracite iron industry was established in the community. Quickly the town became known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution in the country. David Thomas, a Welsh immigrant, relocated to the area and built the Crane Iron Works. He is regarded as "the father of Catasauqua," and he first named the area Craneville after a former employer in his home country, Wales. It wasn't until 1854 that the borough was officially renamed after the Lenni Lenape word meaning dry ground.

Thomas founded the Presbyterian Church of Catasauqua, still in operation as a place of worship. His wife Elizabeth donated both money and land to establish the Welsh Congregational Church. Unfortunately, it no longer exists. Thomas is also credited with the following:

• organizing the town's first fire department
• installing its first public water system
• serving as its first burgess

Historical Neighborhood

The area is home to two separate historic neighborhoods recognized by the National Register of Historic Places:

• Biery's Port - located along the Lehigh River and named after one of the early families
• The Mansion District - which consists of many Victorian homes formerly owned by affluent residents

Education

The Catasauqua Area School District serves the community with public education options. The following are some of the schools included:

• Francis H Sheckler Elementary (grades k-4)
• Catasauqua Middle School (grades 5-8)
• Catasauqua High School (grades 9-12)

Private and specialty schools available include:

• Innovative Arts Academy
• Bridgeway Academy
• Essential Learning Institute

Children can also attend Sue Albert's School of Dance, located on Race Street. 

Demographics

The borough had 6,588 residents, 2,616 households, and 1,750 families in the year of 2000. The racial statistics included the following:

• 95.60% White
• 1.18% African American
• 0.33% Native American
• 0.59% Asian
• 0.02% Pacific Islander
• 1.08% from other races
• 1.20% from two or more races
• 3.54% Hispanic or Latino 

The community income median per household was  $42,432, and per family was $48,589. Men average an annual income of $32,320 versus $45,730 for women. 

Read more: Visiting the Historic North Catasauqua, PA

Our Local Office

The Catasauqua, PA, personal injury attorneys at Justice Guardians have been offering legal aid to the greater community for years. Call to learn how they can help you seek justice; our consultations are free so call our 24/7 hotline today.

Justice Guardians
1142 Hamilton St. #102
Allentown, PA 18102
(610) 596-9369