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Gilbert

Municipality
Chestnuthill Township

Gilbert, Pennsylvania is a quiet, unincorporated village located in Chestnuthill Township, Monroe County, nestled in the scenic West End of the Pocono Mountains. Though small in size, Gilbert holds a rich agricultural legacy, a strong sense of community, and a central role in local history and events.

🗺️ Geographic & Civic Snapshot

  • Township: Chestnuthill
  • Coordinates: 40.9158°N, 75.4394°W
  • Elevation: ~745 ft (227 m)
  • Population: ~430 (2020 Census)
  • ZIP Code: 18331
  • School District: Pleasant Valley School District
  • Waterways: Pohopoco Creek flows through Gilbert, eventually feeding into Beltzville Lake and the Lehigh River

🏘️ Community Character

  • Village Feel: Gilbert is a small, close-knit community with a mix of historic homes, family farms, and local businesses
  • Local Institutions: Includes churches, banks, and restaurants that serve as social anchors for the surrounding rural area
  • Events: Hosts the annual West End Fair, a beloved tradition since 1920, celebrating local agriculture, crafts, and community spirit

🏛️ Historical Notes

  • West End Fair Origins: First held at Weir Lake in Chestnuthill Township, the fair was founded by local farmer Frank Koehler to showcase regional produce and livestock
  • Educational Legacy: Gilbert was once home to the Gilbert Polytechnic School, a post-secondary training institution serving rural Monroe County students in the early 20th century

🌄 Village Identity

Gilbert is a place where rural heritage meets quiet resilience. Its modest population and pastoral setting belie its importance as a cultural and historical touchstone in Monroe County’s West End. Whether you're attending the fair, fishing in Pohopoco Creek, or tracing the legacy of one-room schoolhouses, Gilbert offers a grounded, authentic experience of Pocono life.