The locale of this photo is identified as Orson, in Preston Township, PA. It’s a special occasion—perhaps the 4th of July or Old Home Day. The whole town has turned out, and a train full of passengers has stopped at the O&W depot to view the festivities. The brass band is standing at attention, ready to break into a rousing march. 

This community was originally called Hine’s Corners in honor of the Hine family, who came from Massachusetts to Northeastern Pennsylvania early in the 19th century. However, when the Ontario & Western Railroad came through northern Wayne County in the 1890s, the depot, the post office and the surrounding area were renamed “Orson.” 

“The Nomenclature of Wayne,” a collection of newspaper columns written by Thomas J. Ham (available in the Wayne County Historical Society Museum Shop), suggests that the new name was inspired by Orson Case, Sr., an early settler. There is, however, no known evidence to support this theory. 

From the collection of the Wayne County Historical Society, 810 Main St., Honesdale, PA. The museum and research library are currently open Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.