Italian immigrants protested discrimination and racial hatred in Schuylkill County | 1926

In 1926, Italian immigrants in Schuylkill County, PA, united to protest racial discrimination and biased media coverage. Amidst rising anti-Italian sentiment, the Sons of Italy organized to demand fair treatment and highlight their community's contributions and law-abiding values. Discover their powerful response to injustice. Read the Full Story.

In 1842, Irish immigrants in Schuylkill County began an international war of words over slavery in America

In 1842, a group of Irish immigrants in Schuylkill County came together to oppose their countrymen's call for racial equality and an end to slavery in the US.

Jim Gaffigan’s Coal Region connections featured on “Finding Your Roots” on PBS

Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. and comedian Jim Gaffigan explored Gaffigan's family connection to the Coal Region on "Finding Your Roots"

A 1938 editorial from the Coal Region urged loosening of immigration restrictions for refugees

In November 1938, the Pittston Gazette published an editorial calling for a reconsideration of America's strict immigration policies.

A Scottish immigrant’s remarkable working history in 1850s Schuylkill County (Part 2)

Loaded mine car unloaded at a Pennsylvania anthracite mine in 1869.

Discover the remarkable journey of Scottish immigrant Robert Weir in 1850s Schuylkill County. From his work as a hoisting engineer in Pennsylvania's coal mines to his experiences in the California Gold Rush, explore his vivid recollections and the impact of the Civil War on his life. Read the full story.

A powerful letter on slavery and the Civil War from a one-time resident of Northeastern Pennsylvania

"ABOLISH SLAVERY" - A remarkable letter from an Irish-American soldier in the Civil War and his evolving anti-slavery beliefs.