Dennis McGeehan

Johnsonburg Dennis McGeehan

Johnsonburg, the "Paper City," is situated at the juncture of the east and west branches of the Clarion River in Pennsylvania's Allegheny Mountains. Its prime location guaranteed that this vibrant community in Elk County would flourish. Surrounded by trees, Johnsonburg made a living from wood. Sawmills, tanneries, and a large paper mill have dominated the lives of the Italian immigrants and other groups that settled in town. River transportation gave way to railroads, and Johnsonburg became a hub of rail carriers moving freight and passengers. Its riverside location also had disadvantages, and the history of the community is measured in flood years. Johnsonburg was frequently flooded, but the people never gave in to hard times. Today Johnsonburg is still mostly surrounded by trees, and the forests have made the area a sporting paradise. Hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation are an important part of the modern economy.