In February 1945, a Schuylkill County anti-aircraft gunner wrote home from France, describing daily life near the front as the war neared its end. His letter offers a view of war-time service far from home. Read the full story.
On February 20, 1906, a cave-in over Scranton’s Bellevue mine swallowed a home at 322 S. 5th Avenue. The Shea family fled as rumbling began; their house sank eight feet. Next door, the Doughertys heard their home beginning to give way. One house was lost; the other survived. Read the full story.
In January 1865, an Irish emigrant in Scranton wrote home with urgency and affection: he’s prepaid a passage, warns that “gold is so high,” and begs his brother-in-law to come—packing pipes, oatmeal, and “Paddy’s eye water.” Amid war, paper money, and longing, the letter captures the costs, logistics, and hope of Coal Region migration. Read the full story.
In 1964, the West Schuylkill Herald featured Mrs. Mione’s classic Italian lasagna recipe, a staple at her family’s table in Tower City, PA. Decades later, Mione’s Pizza remains a beloved local institution, still serving up flavors rooted in tradition. Read the full story and recipe.
Celebrate Black History Month with stories of African American pioneers in Pennsylvania’s Coal Region—from Civil War bravery to crucial roles in 20th-century progress. Discover heroes like Nicholas Biddle and Charles H. King, Jr., and learn how they shaped our communities. Join us in honoring this remarkable legacy. Read the full story.
In 1922, the Pottsville Republican made a compelling plea for synchronizing time across Schuylkill County. With factory whistles, clocks, and shop bells all chiming at different moments, the lack of coordination created chaos for locals. Explore how Pottsville struggled to align its timekeeping. Read the full story.
In February 1858, a violent brawl erupted on the floor of the House of Representatives. A Coal Region representative initiated the fight.
Amid a smallpox epidemic in Schuylkill County, a newspaper editor threw up their hands at those who refused to be vaccinated, despite very real danger.
In March 1945, Irvin Schwartz's hometown newspaper published news of his Bronze Star. A week later they shared the news he had been wounded.
Irvin Schwartz comments on the mail he's received from home in Pennsylvania and how letters that have nothing to do with the war were his favorites.