Killed Aboard the USS Arizona – Seaman First Class Paul Shiley and the Attack on Pearl Harbor

Posted on by Jake Wynn
USS Arizona and the Pennsylvania Coal Region

On December 7, 1941, Seaman First Class Paul Shiley of Wiconisco, Pennsylvania was killed aboard the USS Arizona during the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor. Shiley, just 19 years old, was among the 1,177 crew members who perished when the Arizona was struck by Japanese bombs, leading to a catastrophic explosion. He became Wiconisco’s first casualty of World War II, forever entombed in the wreckage of the Arizona. Discover his story and the tragic events of that fateful day. Read the full story.

“The Coal Trade At This Place Was Never Brisker Than At Present” – Williams Valley in 1865

Posted on by Jake Wynn

The Upper Dauphin Register describes the booming coal business in Wiconisco Township and predicts a bright future for its "inexhaustible mines."

96th Pennsylvania in Grant’s Overland Campaign

Posted on by Jake Wynn

Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant (NARA) May 2014 marks the 150th anniversary of General Ulysses S. Grant's Overland Campaign through Virginia. The Army of the Potomac's march into Virginia in the spring of 1864 ushered in one of the Civil War's most bloody periods. From May 1 through June 30, a series of battles were … Continue reading 96th Pennsylvania in Grant’s Overland Campaign

Baseball in Williams Valley, 1906

Posted on by Jake Wynn

In honor of baseball's opening day, I bring you this. A newspaper story covering the newly formed Williams Valley League in the summer of 1906. Baseball became a phenomenon in the region, and several players from the league's teams went on to successful careers at higher levels. This time period also proved instrumental in developing … Continue reading Baseball in Williams Valley, 1906