Brooklyn Township, settled in the spring of 1787 by pioneers led by John Nicholson, has a rich history that reflects the resilience of its early settlers. These first inhabitants navigated the Susquehanna, Tunkhannock, and Hopbottom Creeks by canoe, carving out a community in the Pennsylvania wilderness. Over time, New Englanders like Andrew Tracy and Joseph Chapman joined, bringing with them traditions, the first apple seedlings, and the determination to transform the area into a thriving settlement.
A defining feature of Brooklyn Township is the Martins Creek Viaduct, also known as the Kingsley Bridge. This awe-inspiring structure, completed in 1914, spans 1,600 feet across the valley and stands 150 feet tall, connecting the township with its neighbor, Nicholson. The viaduct, which remains in use today, is a testament to the township’s industrial heritage and its pivotal role in America’s railroading history. The newly established scenic overlook on Zicks Hill Road offers visitors a panoramic view of this engineering marvel, linking Brooklyn’s past with its present.
Today, Brooklyn Township is a peaceful community bordered by the bustling Route 11 to the west, with Route 167 passing through its center. It is home to Camp Archbald, a 230-acre Girl Scout camp established in 1920, making it the second oldest Girl Scout camp in America. Nestled just north of Nicholson and southwest of Montrose, Brooklyn Township continues to honor its historical roots while offering residents and visitors a glimpse into its enduring legacy and natural beauty.
