Berwick, nestled in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, forms a part of the picturesque Northeastern Pennsylvania landscape, just 28 miles southwest of Wilkes-Barre. Its population, recorded at 10,355 in the 2020 census, contributes to the vibrant Bloomsburg–Berwick metropolitan area, encompassing Columbia and Montour counties with a combined population of 85,562 as of the 2010 census.
Founded by Evan Owen, a Welsh Quaker and surveyor, Berwick draws its name from the English town of Berwick-upon-Tweed. Settled along the north bank of the Susquehanna River in 1769, the borough was officially founded in 1786 and incorporated in 1818.
Throughout its history, Berwick has thrived with a diverse industrial base. Notable companies like the American Car and Foundry Company and Wise Potato Chips have contributed to its economic vitality. The borough experienced significant growth, particularly after consolidating with West Berwick in 1917, witnessing a population surge from 5,357 in 1910 to a peak of 14,010 in 1950.
Berwick has gained acclaim beyond its industrial prowess, boasting successful high school sports teams like the Bulldogs football team, which has secured six state championships and three national titles. Additionally, the town celebrated its first-ever baseball state championship in 2008.
One of Berwick's cherished traditions is the Berwick Christmas Boulevard, a mile-long spectacle of lights and displays along Market Street since 1947, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The event, organized by the Jaycees, offers a festive experience, complete with the distribution of Wise Potato Chips by none other than Santa Claus himself.
Rich in historical heritage, Berwick hosts notable landmarks such as the Berwick Armory and the Jackson Mansion and Carriage House, both listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Situated between Luzerne and Columbia Counties, Berwick is bordered by Briar Creek Township to the north, Briar Creek borough to the west, Mifflin Township across the Susquehanna River to the south, and Salem Township in Luzerne County to the east. Its strategic location is enhanced by major transportation routes like U.S. Route 11 and Interstate 80, facilitating connectivity with neighboring towns and cities.
The borough's significance in transportation history is further exemplified by its past ties to the Susquehanna, Bloomsburg, and Berwick Railroad and the Pennsylvania Canal, both integral parts of the region's industrial legacy.
According to the 2000 census, Berwick had a population of 10,774, residing in 4,595 households, and comprising 2,802 families. The population density stood at 3,477 inhabitants per square mile, with 4,992 housing units at an average density of 1,611 per square mile. The racial composition was predominantly White (97.10%), with smaller percentages of African American (0.88%), Native American (0.28%), Asian (0.43%), Pacific Islander (0.05%), and individuals of other races (0.61%), along with 1.62% identifying as Hispanic or Latino.
Berwick experienced a significant influx of immigrants between 1890 and 1920, notably from Slovakia, Ukraine, Ruthenia, Lithuania, and Poland, contributing to the diverse cultural fabric that persists today, particularly within the Eastern Catholic and Roman Catholic communities.
Median household income stood at $27,442, while median family income was $32,357. Males had a median income of $26,467 compared to $21,061 for females. Per capita income was $14,538. Approximately 9.6% of families and 14.9% of the population lived below the poverty line, including 20.8% of those under 18 and 11.1% of individuals aged 65 or older.
During World War II, Berwick played a crucial role in the production of Stuart tanks, with over 15,000 of these tanks manufactured at an American Car and Foundry plant within the town. Not only did the plant contribute to the war effort by producing tanks, but it also served as a significant manufacturer of rolling stock for railroads. Today, Berwick remains home to Berwick Offray, a division of CSS Industries specializing in gift ribbon manufacturing. Additionally, Wise Foods, a renowned snack food company famous for its potato chips, was founded by Berwick native Earl Wise in the early twentieth century and continues to be a prominent presence in the borough.
Berwick hosts the Berwick Area School District, accommodating five public schools: Berwick Area High School, Berwick Area Middle School, Nescopeck Elementary School, West Berwick Elementary School, and Salem Elementary School. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education's data for the 2009–10 academic year, the district boasts a 94% regular attendance rate and an 88% on-time graduation rate.