Discover how Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, observed Thanksgiving Day in 1864 during the Civil War. This historical piece explores local sermons, community events, and the patriotic spirit following Union victories, offering unique insights into 19th-century American life and culture during a pivotal era. Read the full story.
A filmmaker recorded silent moving images of a strip mine in operation in Schuylkill County in December 1917.
Photographer Sheldon Dick made a visit to the Coal Region in 1938 to document scenes of life and work in the mining towns of northern Schuylkill County. On an evening during his visit, Dick made a swing by a bar room in Gilberton, Pennsylvania and snapped three photographs that bring the setting to life. The … Continue reading Scenes in a Coal Region bar room – 1938
Pottsville photograph A.M. Allen made a trip to northern Schuylkill County to capture an image of the Shenandoah City Colliery.
Discover the remarkable journey of Scottish immigrant Robert Weir in 1850s Schuylkill County. From his work as a hoisting engineer in Pennsylvania's coal mines to his experiences in the California Gold Rush, explore his vivid recollections and the impact of the Civil War on his life. Read the full story.
Discover the journey of Scottish immigrant Robert Weir, who arrived in Schuylkill County's Coal Region in 1852. This historical account explores 19th-century Pennsylvania coal mining, immigrant challenges, and community life. Unearth rich cultural history in this captivating 1914 interview. Read the full story.
When the Civil War broke out in 1861, the bravery and courage of the volunteer soldiers of Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania immediately became the stuff of legends. The famed "First Defenders," a group that included a sizable number of men from Pottsville and surrounding communities, were among the first to arrive in Washington to protect the … Continue reading “Our Pottsville Volunteers” – A song about Schuylkill County’s brave Civil War soldiers
Discover the tragic 1858 incident where toxic gases from a burning coal mine claimed the lives of two mining officials in Tamaqua, Pennsylvania. Explore this early example of mine fires in the anthracite coal fields, highlighting the dangers miners faced and the environmental challenges of the era. Read the full story.
A photograph from 1891 shows mineworkers posed at the bottom of the Lincoln Colliery breaker.
A travel writer vividly described Pottsville and the surrounding region of Schuylkill County in 1852.