A Gorgeous View

The view from the residence on the Mensch estate, well situated above the river, at the foot of the Bald Eagle, opposite the borough of Muncy, is gorgeous, as well as historically and geologically interesting. The Muncy Hills, beginning a mile or more west of the rock-faced river gap, from a large semicircular bend in the form of a horseshoe, almost conformable to the graceful bend of the river from west to south around the Bald Eagle. The broad and fertile basin thus partially environed by the Muncy Hills is mainly the Muncy Valley; in which are pleasantly located the peaceful hamlet of Pennsdale – with its plain but very substantial Friends' Meeting House, built about 110 years ago – and the enterprising towns of Muncy and Hughesville; while in allied gorges are hidden from view, but pleasingly situated, Clarkestown on Little Muncy Creek, and Picture Rocks on Big Muncy. Muncy is located east of the river, close to the great bend, about two miles from the Mensch dwelling; and Hughesville is delightfully situated at the head of the basin, about five miles east of Muncy. The residence portion of the growing borough of Montgomery, three or four miles southwest of the terminus, is comfortably nestled on the top of a hill. On dark nights, when Montgomery, Muncy, and Hughesville are illuminated with their electric lights, the effect as seen from various points is agreeable and impressive, and is suggestive of the great change that has taken place since John Scudder built his cabin at the mouth of Glade Run. Light was often produced in his day, and still later, by burning pine knots.

The pioneers "— came with strong arms, log cabins to raise,
And read their Bibles by the pine knot's blaze."

• Gernerd, J. M. M., The Muncy Valley: Snap-Shots of Scenery, Geology and History, 1909, Press of the Gazette and Bulletin, Williamsport PA