Harrisburg is a river city.
It’s the reason it exists in the first place. The enterprising and astute John Harris realized the significance of this location when he came here in the early 1700s and established himself on the mighty Susquehanna.
Until the 20th century, the Susquehanna and its banks were primarily used for commerce, disposal of the city’s sewage and rubbish, and, ironically, drinking water. However, the City Beautiful movement of 1902 to 1926 changed that. Riverfront Park was built, along with the Dock Street Dam, so that the river could be enjoyed and used for swimming and boating.
That’s precisely what I do every summer.
About two years after we moved to the city, we bought a pontoon boat. It’s a used gem with a hard top and plenty of seating for all-day floats on the river. We dock it at one of the marinas on City Island and can easily walk there from our house when we want to.
For us, it’s our getaway. Pretty much every weekend from May to October—weather and water conditions permitting—you’ll find us in our favorite spots just a stone’s pitch from the concrete steps of the city. However, it’s not something we do just on the weekends. The proximity permits us to go any time we want to watch the sunset, have our dinner, and unwind from a long day.
The views are stunning. We’ve seen the state Capitol dome and surrounding buildings drenched in the hot pink glow of a setting summer sun. We’ve watched spectacular lightning storms from afar and seen blue moons rise more than once.
Of course, we’re not alone out there. There are many others enjoying the water, including fellow pontooners, jet skiers, kayakers, canoers, paddle boarders and folks fishing. In fact, one of the most remarkable things about recreation on the river is that there are people from all over the region enjoying Harrisburg in that way.
Then there’s the wildlife. We have kayaks tied up to our old boat, and, when we’re in the mood, we take adventures through the islands of the Susquehanna. It’s magnificent, not just the serene scenery of lush flora but especially the birds. We’ve observed bald eagles swoop to catch fish, an American coot nest in the marshes, blue herons dance in courtship, and anyone who follows my water escapades knows I befriended a loon a couple of years ago.
Not enough can be said about the incredible bird-watching from the middle of the river. This area is a National Audubon Society designated “Important Bird Area,” and it’s known for its waterfowl and birds of prey. As Paul Zeph, director of conservation for Audubon Pennsylvania, once said, “The birds of this crossroads epitomize what a special, amazing place this is.”
This place is special and amazing, and more people need to realize how much of that is based on Harrisburg being a river city. We’ve had many guests on the boat, and just like us, they, too, have been struck with the awareness that being near the water and on the water makes you understand better just how poignant and important Harrisburg is.
I’ve encountered many people who grew up in the city and steer clear of the water. I’ve been told it’s because it’s safer that way. After all, it is the mighty Susquehanna, and it can be more dangerous than it looks.
After rains, it can be high and swift and filled with debris, such as floating logs and branches. When the waters go down, large, jagged rocks sit unseen right below the surface. The Susquehanna River is wide, powerful and constantly changing with the seasons and weather.
Some mothers have warned children to stay away from the water to be safe.
I, of course, do not advocate that.
Rather, I believe we should embrace the river, learn about it, know it and respect it. There are lots of ways to do that.
Take a ride on the Pride riverboat and check out its River School for the kids. Walk the river or sit on the beach at City Island. Rent a kayak from Susquehanna Outfitters along with a guided tour. If you’re so inclined, do some research. The Susquehanna River Basin Commission, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (yes, Harrisburg falls in the bay’s watershed, which makes the people of Harrisburg stewards of the bay, a considerable responsibility) are great sources to get you started on discovering the importance of the river.
I love the river. I never cease to exalt its value or appreciate its mightiness. I never take for granted what an asset it is to my home city.
The Susquehanna River is the region’s splendor. It offers something to everyone. It brings us together. It connects us as a resource. We all share in its power and wonder.
And it’s worth saying again, it’s why this place—all of it from East Shore to West Shore—even exists in the first place.
That’s something to appreciate.
Tara Leo Auchey is creator and editor of today’s the day Harrisburg. www.todaysthedayhbg.com
