Rural landscapes in East Norwegian Township
Originally named for the Norwegian settlers who originally inhabited the area, East Norwegian Township is a largely rural, undeveloped slice of Pennsylvania close to Pottsville. The township’s secluded atmosphere attracts residents looking to live on the edge of two boroughs while still having proximity to town amenities, Pennsylvania Route 61 and employment opportunities. “The big thing that draws people over there is that’s where one of the Lehigh Valley Hospitals is located, so there is employment,” says Nada Laguna, a Realtor with EveryHome Realtors. “There are a lot of rental properties over in that area.” In addition to the Schuylkill branch of the hospital in Pottsville, an industrial park on the west side of East Norwegian Township provides additional job opportunities. Tenants of the industrial park include Hexcel and Spector Manufacturing.
Architectural variety on the outskirts of East Norwegian Township
Much of the housing stock in East Norwegian Township is on the outskirts of St. Clair and Port Carbon. For single-family properties, homebuyers will find ranch-styles or detached rowhouses to choose from. Other architectural styles are mixed in, including larger colonial-style homes or farmhouses. Prices vary, but typically fall between $110,000 and $170,000.
Restaurants and retail in nearby Pennsylvania towns
Residents venture into the neighboring towns and boroughs to dine out. “For shopping and restaurants, people just go to downtown Pottsville,” Laguna says. “There are several eateries along Center Street in Pottsville. There’s Pilger Ruh Brewing, axe-throwing with a bar at the Chopping Block and there’s Crimson House, which does tapas.” The Pottsville Diner has homemade-style menu items, while up in St. Clair, the Wooden Keg Tavern dates back over 150 years and has a pub atmosphere. Mamma Mia’s serves Italian food in Port Carbon. The D.G. Yuengling & Son Brewery in Pottsville is the oldest brewery in the United States and hosts events. On the west side of East Norwegian Township, the Fairlane Village Mall has a Kohl’s and Boscov’s, while an Aldi is located across Route 61.
Two schools serve East Norwegian Township students
Students can begin at Saint Clair Area Elementary/Middle School, which spans kindergarten through eighth grade and receives a C-plus from Niche. Penn State PRO Wellness has deemed Saint Clair Area Elementary/Middle a “Healthy Champion School” based on overall school nutrition and wellness. Kids can then move on to Pottsville Area High School, which garners a B-minus rating, for grades nine through 12.
Using Pennsylvania Route 61 for transit
Those living in East Norwegian need personal vehicles to get around, as there is no public transportation in the area. Pennsylvania Route 61 is about 2 miles west of the township. Reading is about 40 miles south, while Allentown is around 50 miles east. Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill is less than 3 miles west.
Rural Pennsylvania trails and nearby community parks
Parts of the Darkwater Trail wind through the north side of the community. The trail spans more than 21 miles and accommodates both those on foot and in off-road vehicles. In Port Carbon, the Francis E. Lubinsky Playground has green space, a basketball court and play equipment. In St. Clair John Siney Park has a playground and pavilion, while Northward Playground also has a basketball court and the nearby St. Clair Little League ballfield. The St. Clair Swimming Pool is also just west of town.
Annual events in the area around East Norwegian Township
The annual Schuylkill County Brew Fest has been held for a decade. Dozens of breweries set up tents along Centre Street in Pottsville, while attendees can also grab food from local vendors and check out live music. Later in the year, the annual Brewsgiving Beer Festival also takes place in downtown Pottsville, showcasing more breweries, vendors and musical acts.
