While researching Letters from War: 1861, a single line in a Coal Region newspaper stopped me cold. A sergeant had written home describing the murder of a Black man by Union soldiers. This is the investigation into what really happened on June 1, 1861 and the lynching of a man named Frank Jones.
Explore the Port Carbon Iron Works as depicted in an 1864 illustration from Schuylkill County. Discover this Civil War-era industrial site, owned by T.H. Wintersteen. Read the full story.
These remarkable sketches show life in the Coal Region during the middle part of the 19th century, a crucial time in the area's history.
Discover how Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, observed Thanksgiving Day in 1864 during the Civil War. This historical piece explores local sermons, community events, and the patriotic spirit following Union victories, offering unique insights into 19th-century American life and culture during a pivotal era. Read the full story.
In a letter written on January 30, 1944, Pfc. Irvin Schwartz opined on high school basketball in his native Schuylkill County.
In 1905, outraged Union veterans in Port Carbon, Pennsylvania came together to take down a confederate battle flag.
Port Carbon's Civil War monument was dedicated on July 4, 1906 to much fanfare.
In May 2019, we traveled to Port Carbon to see two Civil War monuments dedicated to local residents.