In early October 1918, pandemic influenza descended on Schuylkill County and left thousands dead.
A story from 1918 reveals chaos as “Spanish flu” raged through Schuylkill County
“1917” – A film experience that brings the horror of World War I to life
A scene from the film mirrors the experience of a Coal Region doctor who served with the British in WWI.
“I am more than glad it is over” – A Coal Region soldier’s experience in World War I
Private James J. Dee experienced the horror of the First World War and wrote home to his family about the experience.
The 1918 influenza pandemic tore apart this small Pennsylvania family
Influenza swept through the Hensel family of Sheridan, Pennsylvania in October 1918, leaving three dead and lives changed forever.
“Wild with joy” – Celebrations marked end of World War I in Williams Valley
In the early hours of November 11, 1918, news of the armistice ending World War I swept through Williams Valley, Pennsylvania. Communities like Tower City and Lykens erupted in spontaneous celebrations, with bells, whistles, and parades marking the end of the Great War. Residents rejoiced in a hard-won victory, though the seeds of another conflict had already been planted. Read the full story.
Coal Region doctor became a British war hero in March 1918
Dr. Daniel E. Berney was severely wounded while evacuating wounded soldiers during the First World War.
World War I draftees paraded through Elizabethville in 1918 before marching off to war
On a sunny Saturday in August 1918, more than 150 young men prepared for entry into the U.S. Army at the town park in Elizabethville, PA.
“Nothing to really compare with this” – A reflection on the 1918 influenza epidemic in Wilkes-Barre
"Three hundred miles of funeral processions, and the tears and groans that accompany these sad partings."
“This life is agreeing with me” – A Pennsylvania soldier trains for war in 1918
Private Edward Ditty trained for war with the 23rd Engineers and sought success as a boxer in the ranks.
Women faced great risks, but volunteered to save lives in Harrisburg during the 1918 flu epidemic
During the height of the 1918 influenza epidemic, the women of Central Pennsylvania jumped into action.