I made a visit to the historic Rockville Bridge in March 2023 - still a vital rail link across the Susquehanna River since 1902. In under half an hour, three freight trains thundered past. Beneath the span: a builders’ plaque and spray-paint flood marks from 1972 and 1996. Read the full story.
Explore an 1877 journey into Pennsylvania's Coal Region through a detailed article from Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Monthly. Discover the rich history of anthracite coal mining, the picturesque town of Mauch Chunk, the famed Gravity Railroad, and insights into the era's industrial life, including the notorious Molly Maguires. Read the full story.
A travel writer vividly described Pottsville and the surrounding region of Schuylkill County in 1852.
A travel writer made a detailed entry about Tamaqua, Pennsylvania in the summer of 1862.
An artist's rendition shows the Pennsylvania state capital as it looked in the late-19th century.
"None can tell what a busy scene will be presented near these mines."
Explore a rare 1833 account of riding Pennsylvania's Lykens Valley Railroad, one of the state's earliest railways. Discover how this horse-drawn line connected Bear Gap coal mines to Millersburg, spurring growth in the Coal Region and shaping Pennsylvania's industrial history. Dive into this snapshot of 19th-century railroad innovation. Read the full story.
The 96th Pennsylvania left Pottsville for the Union capital in November 1861 amid the cheers of their fellow citizens.