History of Lakewood Park

Catalpa Grove is situated in the coal regions of northeast Pennsylvania on the site of the historic Lakewood Park.  The original Lakewood Park had a 70-year journey that was established in early 1900’s as a place to picnic and camp. It became known as a nature retreat for the nearby miners and their families and was developed over the years. It became a destination for thousands to gather to, for swimming, amusement rides, skating, big band dances, boxing matches, ethnic celebrations, summer stock plays and political banquets. The park boasted a 150-yard cement pool, a grand ballroom and hand-carved Spillman carousel, which can still be seen in a museum in Grand Rapids Michigan.  Lakewood Park was the host of the longest-running ethnic festival in Pennsylvania, Lithuanian Day, from 1914-1984. The park had various festivals and celebrations, with celebrity performers, such as Dick Clark, Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, Eva Gabor, Lawrence Welk, The Everly Brothers, Louis Armstrong, and many more. Guy Lombardo and his band played at Lakewood Park for 27 consecutive years. Rudy Vallee, Vaughn Monroe, and Paul Whiteman broadcasted Live from the ballroom. These performances made the Park an entertainment hub for 68 years.
 
The local historical society has many articles on their website regarding the history of Lakewood Park. All that remains of the park today is the lake, some foundations, a water tower, a couple smaller block buildings, roads, and of course memories. There is also a YouTube video and a book that highlights the history of the Park. See links below.
 
The venue is on target to be completed by the end of August 2019 with a grand opening and other public events to occur in August/September of 2019. Weddings and other private/corporate events are starting to be booked for September of 2019 and after. The venue will be located creek side and guests will have access to walk along the side of the 10 acre lake if they desire. Numerous photo opportunities are present throughout the 54 acre property.
 
A future phase for the Lakewood Park property is the build out of a 200 camp site family campground (note the venue will still have privacy from the campground). The campground will include many amenities, including cabin rentals, which could offer great convenience for your traveling guests.

Historical Society

The Mahanoy Area Historic Society offers a fantastic write-up of the prior park. Click through the different contents on the right hand side to view all pages.

Lakewood Park Documentary

​Click below to watch a 22 minute video on the history of Lakewood Park. You'll hear from the owner's son, author of the book, "Images of America: Lakewood Park"

1928 Spillman Carousel

The Carousel that once delighted thousands of children is restored and able to be enjoyed at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Click below to watch a video of the carousel