Discovering Monroe: A Brief History You Should Know

Marc Winter
Oct 10
2 min read

*image:* *monroecountyda.com* | *Monroe County Court House*

Have you ever wondered how Monroe County, Pennsylvania, came to be? It’s more than just a spot on the map — it’s a place shaped by debates, pioneers, and the shifting lines of counties long ago. Let me take you through its journey.

The Birth of a County

On April 1, 1836, Monroe County officially emerged. It was carved out from portions of Pike and Northampton counties — after nearly a decade of discussion and planning.

That wasn't just bureaucratic redrawing; it was about identity, governance, and serving local communities more directly.

Why “Monroe”?

The name honors James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States. Choosing his name was a way to tie the new county to national ideals and respect a leader of the early republic. (This naming practice was pretty common in that era.)

Roots, Settlement & Growth

Before the county lines even existed, the land was home to Native American populations like the Lenni Lenape. Over time, European settlers arrived, cleared forests, and built small towns

In earlier conflicts, places like Fort Hyndshaw played a role. Built around 1756 in what is now Middle Smithfield Township, it served as part of frontier defense during tensions between settlers and local tribes.

Monroe County in the Bigger Picture

Once Monroe County was established, it began its gradual transformation:

It became part of the evolving Pocono region, known for its natural landscapes and appeal to visitors.
It saw its share of historical events — some celebrated, some tragic.
The county’s growth reflects broader American trends: expansion, local governance, and adaptation to change.

From Resorts to Real Estate Boom: Monroe’s Modern Transformation

Over recent years, Monroe County has been quietly reimagining itself. Where once the Poconos were anchored by resorts and estates, today you’ll find:

Upscale new home communities and custom builds springing up in places like Kunkletown and Blakeslee, with modern amenities, personalized finishes, and 1–2 acre lots.
Industrial and commercial anchors — like Messer’s new facility and a microelectronics plant at Tobyhanna — helping transform once-quiet parcels into hubs of employment, which in turn fuel residential demand nearby.
Land-use battles and regulation shifts, such as the legal fight over wetland buffer expansions in Coolbaugh Township, remind us that real estate is not just about construction — it’s about politics and values.
A countywide reassessment and proactive planning, which could reframe how communities are taxed and developed, encouraging more strategic growth.