In 1762 settlers from New England came to the Wyoming
Valley, but were driven out by the Indians. It was not until after
the Sullivan expedition in 1779 that families were able to establish
a permanent settlement in the Tunkhannock area. In 1842, Wyoming County
was created from part of Luzerne County. The name "Wyoming" is derived
from an Indian word meaning "extensive meadows." With its glistening
streams, gently rolling hills and tranquil valleys, Wyoming County
is undoubtedly one of Pennsylvania's most scenic counties. With a history
and heritage running as wide and deep as the Susquehanna River that
crosses its pastoral fields and meadows, the Wyoming County Historical
Society was organized to make this information available to the public.
Genealogical Library
Located in the old brick school building in the County
Seat of Tunkhannock, the library offers a major source of research material
to the public. The collection includes numerous
books on New England ancestry, newspapers dating back to 1797 and census
records for Wyoming and surrounding counties from 1790 to 1930. Also
on file are records for over 90 area cemeteries as well as various other
information about local history.
Historical Museum
Historical items from Wyoming County and surrounding
areas are on display and include a collection of Indian artifacts as
well as numerous items from the Civil War, World Wars I & II. Dr.
Walter Tewksbury's 1900 bronze Olympic Medal along with the displays
of toys, tools and household items are of special interest to visitors
of the museum. Samples
