Damascus

🌄 Damascus Township is the largest and one of the oldest townships in Wayne County, Pennsylvania, nestled along the scenic Delaware River. With deep colonial roots and a sprawling rural landscape, it’s a place where history and nature intertwine.

🗺️ Geography & Communities

• Total Area: ~80.3 sq mi (78.7 land, 1.6 water) — the largest in Wayne County
• Elevation: ~1,283 feet
• Border: Eastern edge formed by the Delaware River, connecting to New York via several bridges
• Villages: Includes Damascus, Milanville, Tyler Hill, Galilee, Abrahamsville, Fallsdale, Hilltown, Duck Harbor, West Damascus, Calkins, Conklin Hill, Skinners Falls, and more

🏛️ History & Heritage

• Established: March 21, 1798 — one of Wayne County’s original townships
• Named for: Damascus, Syria
• Early Settlers: Joseph Skinner and family (1755); Daniel Skinner pioneered log rafting on the Delaware
• Historic Sites:
  • Cushetunk: First settlement along the river
  • Milanville Historic District and Hill’s Sawmill: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
  • Oldest house in Wayne County built in 1794 by John Land

👥 Demographics

• Population: ~3,698 (2023 estimate)
• Median Age: ~52.5 years
• Households: ~1,577, with an average size of 2.3 people
• Racial Makeup: ~86% White, ~10% two or more races, ~2% Hispanic or Latino
• Median Household Income: ~$73,990
• Poverty Rate: ~9.5%, with higher rates among children

🏘️ Community & Services

• Township Type: Second-class township
• Government: Managed by a Board of Supervisors
• School District: Served by Wayne Highlands School District
• Emergency Services: Includes Damascus Volunteer Ambulance Corps
• Recreation: 29 miles of Delaware River shoreline, nature trails, and community parks