The reputation of the Poconos as a vacation destination dates back to the 19th century. The first boarding house was built in 1829, and by 1900, other retreats were attracting thousands of visitors from growing cities such as Philadelphia. In 1927, the region earned a fitting nickname, "Pennsylvania's Playground." It was truly a leisurely destination where vacationers took advantage of its pristine natural environment.

Aside from the typical resorts, Unity House exemplifies a more specialized approach to vacationing. Purchased by the International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union (ILGWU) in 1924, Unity House was established as a vacation resort for workers and their families. Coinciding with the relocation of garment factories from New York to Pennsylvania's depressed coal regions, this purchase was a part of the ILGWUs intent of showing workers all the rights a union could offer an otherwise over-worked, underpaid worker.

The Pennsylvania garment industry ultimately sought leadership from union organizer, Min Matheson (1957-1963). Combating the sweatshop-style factories, many mob-controlled, Min inspired workers to strike and negotiate for better rights. During this era, the ILGWU regularly bussed workers to Unity House to hear prominent speakers and discuss topics relevant to working people. And of course, there was the vacation benefit of workers' access to a beautiful resort. Unity House marked the first time in US history that a labor union had established a facility of this magnitude solely for the leisure and enlightenment of its members.

In Post-War Pennsylvania, the Poconos earned a new nickname, "Honeymoon Capital of the World." As GIs returned from World War II and married their girlfriends, the Poconos became the honeymoon destination of choice. In 1945, The Farm on the Hill became the first honeymoon resort of the Poconos. In 1963, the first heart-shaped tub was introduced at Caesar's Cove Haven, further solidifying the region's honeymoon aura.

More recently, the Poconos has catered to the changing interests of vacationers with renewed attention to the family experience. Popular features for today's traveler include skiing, golfing, spas, water parks, shopping, and Pocono International Speedway. Yet, although the region has demonstrated adaptability to changing tastes, today's travelers continue to rediscover its wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities.


Appropriate links for lesson comprehension and preparation include:

Story Chapters:
Labor's Struggle to Organize

Historical Marker Pages:
Workers in Greater Pittston's Garment Industry
Unity House