Sunbury: Fort Augusta and River History

Sunbury brings together the history of Fort Augusta and experiences centered on community and the river. The Hunter House, located on the site of the former fort, houses the Northumberland County Historical Society and a museum. Nearby, visitors can also see a model of Fort Augusta on an observation platform and visit a marina area in Shikellamy State Park. Sunbury offers several points of interest to help you plan your trip: historical collections, events, and a river landscape.

Fort Augusta and the Hunter House

Sunbury became the site of Fort Augusta, considered one of Pennsylvania’s most important frontier forts. The Northumberland County Historical Society’s museum is located in the Hunter House at 1150 North Front Street. On display are historical and archaeological artifacts related to Fort Augusta, dating from the French and Indian War through the American Revolution. The collection also includes objects relating to the history of Northumberland County. The history of the fort and the history of the county are presented side by side, so a visit to the museum is not limited to just one of these subjects.

The Hunter House also has a historical and genealogical library. It offers another way to explore the past: alongside artifacts and objects related to regional history, visitors can also explore the genealogical perspective. Those particularly interested in Fort Augusta can also find a model of the fort on the observation platform. The model can be viewed in daylight any day. The Hunter House collections and the model offer different perspectives: historical and archaeological objects on the one hand, and a scale model depicting the fort on the other.

Community, Events, and Ideas for Getting Involved

The Sunbury River Festival is a community event celebrating the city’s river history. The program includes music, food, and entertainment for all ages. Here, the river is not only part of the city’s history but also the theme of a community celebration. If you’re interested in Sunbury, you can consider this cultural event as a distinct focus alongside the historical attractions at the Hunter House.

STEAM Innovation Labs, at 363 Market Street, offers a different kind of community activity. It provides tools, technology, events, and classes for community members at every experience level. The offerings differ considerably from exploring historical collections: the focus here is on practical tools, technology, and learning opportunities. Together, the festival and Innovation Labs showcase different aspects of community life in Sunbury, without being part of a single program.

River Views Nearby

Near Sunbury is the 50-acre marina area of Shikellamy State Park. It sits at the tip of Packers Island in Northumberland County, between Northumberland and Sunbury. Amenities include a marina, two boat launches, picnic tables, pavilions, and paved paths, as well as direct views of the river. This adds a scenic perspective nearby to a visit to the city. The marina area’s amenities combine places to relax, paths, and views of the river.

When choosing a vacation rental in Sunbury, consider which focus best suits your trip: Fort Augusta and the museum offer a history-themed experience, the River Festival is a community event, and STEAM Innovation Labs offers technology and classes. The nearby marina area adds river views and paved paths to the mix.

Other places: Ralpho.

For the broader travel overview: Northumberland.