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| Design and Underwriting by The Bangor Community Partnership™ |
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| Common heritage. Common values. Common vision.™
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The Slate Belt Economic Development Organization (SBED.org) is a community-driven revitalization initiative formulated to advance the quality of life for both business and residents in all our Pennsylvania Slate Belt communities. Led by the Bangor Community Partnership™, this grass roots campaign is focused on developing an improved and inviting environment dedicated to the promotion of local commerce and tourism. Many prominent and influential community leaders have already come together in support of our vision for economic prosperity - and the list is growing. We invite you to do the same. Become a Slate Belt Economic Development Organization Sponsor today and join our call to unite for a better quality of life for all those who share this region. It is with sincere appreciation that we greatfully acknowledge the generous financial support of each of our sponsors and we encourage all who visit this site to patronize these business leaders for each shares a vested interest in the success of these communities we call home.
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THE SLATE BELT STORY
The Slate Belt, which derives its name from the slate deposits found in the area, played a major role in the founding and development of Northampton County. It includes the area between Wind Gap on the south and the Delaware Water Gap on the north, and is bounded by Route 33 on the west and the Delaware River on the east. As early as 1730, Scotch, Irish, Dutch, French, Swiss and German settlers followed the Delaware River to the Blue Mountains. Small settlements were started and spread in what is now Upper and Lower Mount Bethel Townships.
One of the most famous events in Pennsylvania history, "The Walking Purchase," took place within the area's boundaries. A historical sign explaining the details of this event can be seen on Route 611 at Portland. The area continued to grow and prosper in the 1800's because of the diversity of industries and product production.
Lime kilns, brick and cigar factories, tanneries and wood products, as well as rail service to major markets, helped the economy of the region expand. In 1863 slate became the major economic factor. For 75 years, slate was "king." Welsh, English and Italians immigrated to the region to work in the quarries. As the demand for slate declined in the 1930's, textile manufacturing took over as the major economic factor. Today, this industry continues to impact the area. The diversity of ethnic backgrounds of Slate Belt residents has blended to provide a unique spirit to the region. The population is proud of its heritage and the important role they have played in helping to shape the economic growth and historical background of this country.
RECREATION AND TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
The Slate Belt area is flanked on two sides by major recreational resources. To the north is the Appalachian Trail. Beyond the trail and within a few minutes drive are the Pocono Mountain resorts with year-round recreational opportunities. To the east, the Delaware River, which forms the boundary of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, provides a wide variety of water sports and fishing opportunities for the residents of the northeastern United States. The Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area, is available for hiking and historical study.
Northampton County has preserved and enhanced Lake Minsi as a recreation area that has historic roots in early Indian settlements. Tourists, as well as residents, find the beautiful views in the spring and summer and the changing breath-taking foliage in the autumn especially good times to take advantage of the peacefulness and quietness of nature that the area has become noted for.
The Slate Belt Chamber of Commerce has made available, for purchase, the "Hidden Treasures of Rural Northampton County" an audio driving tour. This three CD set depicts tourist sites, history, contact information, directions, and maps of the Slate Belt area and the northern tier of Northampton County. Any time is a good time to visit the Slate Belt area.
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