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.
On Thanksgiving Day 1902, Reverend John Hensyl addressed a congregation in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, just weeks after the end of the historic 1902 Coal Strike. His sermon focused on the harsh realities faced by the region’s mineworkers and called attention to the systemic poverty that plagued working families. Hensyl’s message reflected the growing Progressive Era call for institutional reform to address the inequities created by powerful corporations. Explore how this pivotal moment in labor history was echoed in the pulpit. Read the full story.
This is part of our “Letters from War” series documenting the World War II letters of Irvin Schwartz of Pine Grove, PA. The letters were all published in the West Schuylkill Press-Herald between 1943 and 1945. Read the previous letter here Pfc. Irvin Schwartz in 1943 Somewhere in England Christmas Day, 1943 5:30 PM Dear. … Continue reading Letters from War – A powerfully written letter on Christmas Day, 1943
This is part of our “Letters from War” series documenting the World War II letters of Irvin Schwartz of Pine Grove, PA. The letters were all published in the West Schuylkill Press-Herald between 1943 and 1945. Read the previous letter here On a cold, windy night in December 1943, Pfc. Irvin Schwartz crawled his way … Continue reading Letters from War – Feeling homesick around the holidays in England, December 1943
This is part of our “Letters from War” series documenting the World War II letters of Irvin Schwartz of Pine Grove, PA. The letters were all published in the West Schuylkill Press-Herald between 1943 and 1945. Read the previous letter here Pfc. Irvin Schwartz had Christmas on his mind when he penned the following letter … Continue reading Letters from War – Preparations for a war-time Christmas in England, November 1943
On November 27, 1845, Pottsville, Pennsylvania observed its first official Thanksgiving, following a proclamation by Governor Francis Shunk. This New England tradition had slowly spread to other states, and by the 1840s, Pennsylvania embraced the holiday. Businesses closed, church services were well attended, and the quiet streets reflected a community in celebration. Explore how this first Thanksgiving in Schuylkill County set the stage for a tradition that would later be declared a national holiday during the Civil War. Read the full story.
Discover how Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, celebrated Thanksgiving in 1917 amid the challenges of World War I. Explore wartime traditions, soaring food prices, and community spirit during America's first wartime Thanksgiving in over 50 years. Delve into historical accounts capturing this pivotal moment in Central Pennsylvania. Read the full story.
A storekeeper in Harrisburg saved a family's holiday by shooting dead an escaping turkey on a busy city street.