Iron works in Pottsville, Pennsylvania | 1860s

Posted on by Jake Wynn
Washington Iron Works Pottsville in Schuylkill County Pennsylvania Civil War 19th century Larger

Discover mid-19th century Pottsville as Schuylkill County’s industrial heart: surrounded by anthracite mines, its iron works churned out pumps and engines fueling the coal trade and railroads. Illustrated maps and photos bring these bygone factories to life. Step back into Pottsville’s smoky past. Read the full story.

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

Posted on by Jake Wynn
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.