Johnsonburg

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 has made a living from wood since the beginnings. Sawmills, tanneries, and a large paper mill have dominated the lives of the Italian immigrants and other groups that settled in town. River transportation was also key to Johnsonburg success, but 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 these forests have made the area a sporting paradise.