In 1943, Charles H. King left Pottsville to fight for democracy. Instead, he found segregation, humiliation, and hard truths about race in the U.S. Navy. His memoir captures the moment he realized who he was in a divided America, and why that awakening shaped his life. Read the full story.
In January 1865, Welsh immigrant and Scranton resident Henry F. Evans wrote home after fighting ashore at Fort Fisher with the U.S. Navy. His letter captures the chaos, fear, and brutality of sailors turned infantry in one of the Civil War’s decisive battles. Read the full story.
In this 1864 photo, the USS Canonicus ironclad refuels with anthracite coal, the almost-smokeless fuel from Pennsylvania’s Coal Region that powered the Union blockade during the Civil War. Discover how this vital resource helped shape naval strategy and fueled dramatic changes across Northeastern Pennsylvania. Read the full story.
I recently stopped at The Mariners’ Museum in Newport News, VA to see the USS Monitor—and found Coal Region threads. The ironclad burned Northeastern Pennsylvania anthracite, carried 80 tons to sea, and divers even recovered century-old coal from her wreck. Read the full story.
Emil Kimmel provided an incredible description of his experiences aboard the USS Yorktown at the Battle of Midway.
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.