Wayne Borough was established in 1853 from portions of Scott and Preston Townships, and in 1873 the Pennsylvania Legislature approved changing its name to Starucca (the second “r” was added later). Starrucca village probably came into existence before 1800, with the arrival of a few pioneer families, most notably the brothers Henry and Ezekiel Sampson from Connecticut. Henry built the first mill and his son Benjamin fathered 27 children, thus ensuring the growth of the community. The large number of early sawmills indicates the importance of the forests to the economy of Starrucca. In 1871, Wayne County was the United States’ largest producer of leather—and Starrucca was the third largest producer in the county. The last major manufacturers of wood products in Starrucca were the so-called “acid factories.” Dairy farming was always a significant factor in the Starrucca economy, and the coming of the railroad provided a means to get their dairy products to market. Aside from the small village, Starrucca Borough is still 100% rural.

From the collection of the Wayne County Historical Society, 810 Main St., Honesdale, PA, open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. For more information visit WayneHistoryPA.org or call 570/253-3240.