The “Great Compromiser” in the Coal Region | Pottsville’s Henry Clay Monument

Henry Clay statue at Pottsville PA Historical Photo Jake Wynn Public Historian Schuylkill County

In 1855, Pottsville raised a monument to Henry Clay - the “Great Compromiser” whose vision for canals, rails, and industry helped unleash the Coal Region’s boom in the 19th century. I trace the statue's history and why Clay’s ideas appear in today’s fights over infrastructure, trade, and partisanship. Read the full story.

A story from the building of the Northern Central Railroad in Central Pennsylvania | 1850s

Discover the dramatic story of teenage Henry Keiser, who hauled explosive powder through rugged terrain - and survived a life-threatening cattle stampede. Get a firsthand look at the dangers behind building this crucial rail line along the Susquehanna. Read the full story.

A vaccination campaign for schoolchildren in Schuylkill County in the 1850s

Medical officials and public school administrators worked together to enforce a mandate that students receive the smallpox vaccine in 1855.