In May 1847, the first telegraphic message passed between Pottsville and Philadelphia, ushering in a new era in the Coal Region.
“Extraordinary Things” – The telegraph arrives in Pottsville in 1847
“This community sustains a great loss” – A fatal mine disaster in Wiconisco Township during the Civil War
On February 7, 1862, a roof collapsed inside the Short Mountain Colliery killing a respected miner and wounding several others.
“Very Profitable and Productive”- Developing Williams Valley’s Anthracite Mines During the Civil War
Industrialist Henry Thomas worked with infamous Pennsylvania politicians to develop the coal trade in Williams Valley during the Civil War.
“The Coal Trade At This Place Was Never Brisker Than At Present” – Williams Valley in 1865
The Upper Dauphin Register describes the booming coal business in Wiconisco Township and predicts a bright future for its "inexhaustible mines."
Simon Cameron and the coal mines of Williams Valley – 1862
The disgraced Secretary of War often invested in industrial ventures in Pennsylvania.
Wynning History 