A SKETCH OF ORANGEVILLE

Introduction: The following article appeared in The Columbian, a Bloomsburg newspaper, on August 9, 1878. It gives a complimentary description of Orangeville nearly 125 years ago. The writer recommended it as a pleasant village, off the beaten track, a delightful and restful place to take a vacation. The Orangeville Academy, located on the hill going up Pine Street, received special attention as a fine education institution. The Pennsylvania Legislature incorporated the school in 1858, and it opened its doors on May 1, 1860, with thirty-two students enrolled. Clemuel G. Ricketts laid out the town in the early 1820s. Since many of the residents had come from Orange, New Jersey, and Orange County in New York, they decided in 1824 to name their new home Orangeville

It is quite possible that some of the many readers of the Columbian have never visited this beautiful village of Orangeville. In the romantic situation that it occupies at the southwestern termination of Knob Mountain, some miles distant from the nearest railroad depot, it is not on the route usually taken by the men of business; and the tourist searching for pleasure naturally selects those resorts, which the fashion of the day and the vote of the multitude made popular. But although comparatively unknown, this little village, nestling among the hills, is a delightful resting place for any one desiring a quiet and retired life for a few weeks, after the hard work of a busy year.

The scenery along the Fishing Creek valley is fine; and the smooth well kept roads present unusual attractions to those fond of drives, while for miles around glens and woods afford plenty of scope to the active pedestrian. The inhabitants of this cozy retreat are characterized for their genial, social hospitality, to which they unite a spirit of enterprising industry, which despite the hard times manifests itself in various ways.

Improvements are being made, which, when finished, will add much to the appearance of the town as well as to the comfort of the citizens. Thanks to the friends of the Academy, a nice broad walk has been laid on Pine Street. Mr. A. H. Stewart is putting up a roomy store and large dwelling house on Main Street; and Mr. Silas Conner, with commendable generosity, has greatly beautified the cemetery by fitting up, at his own expense, an elegant gate and fence. But one of the best features of Orangeville life is the decided interest which the people take in educational matters. They have an Academy under the principalship of Prof. C. K. Canfield an active earnest worker, who is rapidly building up here one of the most efficient practical schools in this part of the state. At this institution, students are thoroughly prepared for college or business life. During vacation the trustees have been making needed repairs in the study and recitation rooms, which greatly improve them. The name of W. J. Harrison A.M., has been added to the faculty, which presents a very able corps of teachers. Orangeville Academy certainly never opened up under more favorable auspices than it does this coming term beginning August 12^th, and the citizens may well be proud of this flourishing school.