As we commemorate Black History Month, we’re shining a light on the remarkable contributions of Black residents in Pennsylvania’s Coal Region.
From the bravery and service during the Civil War to key moments of resilience in the 20th century, these stories celebrate how African American communities have helped shape our region’s history. Explore these powerful snapshots of a legacy that stretches back centuries.
Discover Nicholas Biddle’s incredible story as a 65-year-old Black Civil War hero from Schuylkill County. Marching with the First Defenders in Baltimore, his bravery forged a potent symbol of resilience and the fight for freedom.
Donald Tarr killed at Burnside Colliery in Shamokin, Pennsylvania | 1922
In December 1922, Donald Tarr tragically lost his life in a mining accident at the Burnside Colliery near Shamokin, Pennsylvania.
As one of the small number African American miners in the region, Tarr and his family had deep roots in the local coal industry.
Frederick Douglass in Scranton, PA | November 1867
Delve into Frederick Douglass’s November 1867 lectures in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where he criticized President Andrew Johnson, championed universal suffrage, and called for greater rights for Black Americans. Learn how this powerful speech stirred widespread applause.
“Heroic cause of education” – Pottsville established a “Freedmen’s Relief Association” in 1867
Discover how Pottsville’s Freedmen’s Relief Association raised funds and sent teachers south to educate newly freed African Americans in 1867, forging a path for Black education and highlighting the region’s ongoing commitment to Reconstruction efforts.
Pottsville soldier died of wounds received at the Battle of the Crater | 1864
Discover the sacrifice of John Cole, a 43-year-old Black shoemaker from Pottsville who joined the 43rd US Colored Infantry. Wounded at the Battle of the Crater, his story epitomizes bravery and the fight for freedom.
A black childhood in Pottsville in the 1930s – Charles H. King, Jr.
Discover how Charles H. King Jr. navigated life as a black child in 1930s Pottsville, Pennsylvania. With surprising normalcy, a father’s fierce defense, and the jolt of wartime discrimination, King’s experiences fueled his fight during the Civil Rights Movement.
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Jake Another really interesting article about life in Schuylkill. In interviewing family members, I recall asking about blacks living in the Tower City area. One now-deceased great-aunt said she remembered one family but nothing specific. I guess we could check the census records to learn more. Back in 2001, I produced a video about coal mining, specifically around Tower City, since that\’s where my family is from. I had the chance to interview some former miners and worked in David A. Lucas\’ mine for several hours. I wanted to get just a tiny taste of what life was like for my ancestors. I\’ve had this project digitized through Legacy Box and you can see it at
cloud.legacybox.com/share/61bdcbc7-3799-43ff-b04d-e924703101f9
Jeff