05 Jul A River Runs Through It
One of the best things about working at Millbrook Playhouse is being on the historic Susquehanna River. Flowing through the states of New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland it is a majestic body of water and the 16th largest river by volume in the United States. It is also the longest river on the east coast that drains into the Atlantic Ocean and still remains without commercial boat traffic.
“Susquehanna” comes from the Len’api (or Delaware Indian) term Sisa’we’hak’hanna, which means “Oyster River.” This mighty river has two branches that come together at Sakima’ing (modern Sunbury, Northumberland County), and flows south past Harrisburg to Havre de Grace, Maryland, and into the Chesapeake Bay. Oyster beds were widespread in the bay, which the Lenape knew.
The Susquehanna River has long been associated with boating because of its many migratory fish. Susquehanna rowing and paddling have a long history. Starting in 1874, rowers from Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania raced men from Sunbury.
Today, many tourists and local residents use the Susquehanna in the summer for recreational purposes such as kayaking, canoeing, and motor-boating. Canoe races are held annually on various sections of the river in addition to simple rafting and other recreational floating devices. The town of Lock Haven has a river walk which is a beautiful stretch that is perfect for summer morning runs or walks. With the mountains in the near background it is a stunning path for exercise and the perfect place to relax and meditate on your place in the world!