Northumberland County

Northumberland County is an administrative county in central Pennsylvania covering a substantial area of land shaped by mountains, forests, and the Susquehanna River. The landscape includes river valleys, woodlands, and scattered communities across its terrain.

Pennsylvania's assembly created Northumberland County in 1772 by dividing land from Lancaster, Berks, Bedford, Cumberland, and Northampton Counties. This division formed a new administrative region during the colonial period.

The county hosts regular farmers markets and county fairs where locals and visitors experience the area's connection to the land and agriculture. These gatherings reflect how the community continues to value growing food and sharing harvest traditions together.

Sunbury serves as the county seat and center for government services, including the Board of Elections office. Visitors can find important regional resources and administrative information there.

Joseph Priestley, the scientist who discovered oxygen, left England in 1796 and spent his final years conducting experiments in this area. His legacy as a researcher continues to draw interest from visitors exploring his contributions to science.

Location: Pennsylvania

Inception: March 21, 1772

Capital city: Sunbury

Shares border with: Lycoming County, Montour County, Columbia County, Schuylkill County, Dauphin County, Perry County, Juniata County, Snyder County, Union County

Website: http://northumberlandco.org

GPS coordinates: 40.85000,-76.71000

Latest update: December 19, 2025 22:00