Farview
School District
Type:
Unincorporated community
Municipality
The “Farview” area near Waymart isn’t a formal village or census-designated place, but it refers to the elevated region surrounding the historic Farview State Hospital, now home to SCI Waymart, a state correctional institution. Locals may refer to the neighborhood informally as “Farview” due to its long-standing institutional presence and scenic location.
📍 Location & Geography
- Situated: Just west of Waymart borough in Wayne County
- Elevation: One of the highest points in Pennsylvania, offering expansive views—hence the name “Farview”
- Landscape: Rolling hills, forested tracts, and rural residential properties
- Nearby Roads: Farview Road, Belmont Turnpike (Route 296), and South Canaan Road
🏘️ Community Features
- Residential Character: Sparse housing, mostly single-family homes and farmland
- Institutional Landmark: SCI Waymart occupies the historic Farview State Hospital site, which dominates the area both physically and historically
- Local Identity: While not a formal village, “Farview” carries cultural weight due to its legacy in mental health care and corrections
🕰️ Historical Significance
- Farview State Hospital: Founded in 1905 as Pennsylvania’s first institution for the criminally insane
- Transition: Became SCI Waymart in 1989, now a forensic treatment center and medium-security prison
- Legacy: The area’s name and identity are deeply tied to this institution, which shaped local employment, infrastructure, and land use for over a century