Forest City Area Historical Society

05/31/2026

YOU ARE INVITED to the Dedication of the Carnegie Anthracite Mine Heroes Monument on June 27, 2026

For Immediate Release
The Anthracite Heritage Foundation and King’s College
Dedication of the Carnegie Heroes Monument on June 27, 2026
Contact: Professor Robert P. Wolensky, King’s College; 715 252 6742

Andrew Carnegie, the Scottish immigrant, industrialist and philanthropist, established the Carnegie Heroes Fund Commission in 1905 in Pittsburgh. His motive was to award the Carnegie Medal to individuals who had engaged in extraordinary acts of courage.

Over 10,000 medals have since been conferred on persons from throughout the U.S. and Canada. Forty of them have been bestowed on persons whose heroism occurred within the anthracite coal industry of Northeastern Pennsylvania.

On June 27, 2026, at 1:00 pm, the Anthracite Heritage Foundation (AHF), in conjunction with King’s College, will dedicate a marble monument containing the names of the forty anthracite medalists. The list includes the late miner Amadeo Pancotti of Pittston, hero of the Knox Mine Disaster of 1959.

The dedication program will take place in the auditorium of The Alley Center at King’s College on Public Square in downtown Wilkes-Barre, followed by the monument’s unveiling and blessing in The Miners Park at the front of The Alley Center.

The program speakers will include Fr. Thomas Looney, President of King’s College; George Brown Mayor of Wilkes-Barre; Jewels Phraner of the Carnegie Heroes Commission; Thomas Lowther Bell, great grandson of John Tennant Brown, who was awarded the Carnegie Medal for saving four men after an explosion on January 10, 1911, at Hoyt Shaft, near Pittston; and Professor Robert P. Wolensky of the AHF and King’s College. Tony Brooks of the AHF and the Wilkes-Barre Preservation Society will serve as the Master of Ceremonies.

We hope you can join us for this important local event commemorating a group of heroic anthracite mineworkers. The proceedings will be open to the public, and refreshments will be served.

Parking will be available in the street, and in the high-rise ramp at the rear of The Alley Center, with the entrance on North Main Street.

05/30/2026

The Day of the Rope by The Coal-Fired Ramblers - Story of the Molly Maguires

The Day of the Rope, by Coal Fired Ramblers

05/28/2026

Another historical site in Susquehanna County

We’re proud to announce that The Dennis Farm is now an official site on “Destination Freedom: The Underground Railroad Tour of Northeast Pennsylvania.”
This important designation recognizes the Farm’s deep connection to the Underground Railroad and helps preserve and share the powerful stories rooted in our region’s history. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the launch event and continues to support our mission of education, preservation, and remembrance.

05/27/2026

Hi Friends!
It looks like a beautiful weekend coming up and the only thing that would make it even better is a little hillbillly music! For the best sunshine🌞 and happy bluegrass music come on out this weekend and join us from York to Lycoming County for three fun performances:

1. 5/30/26 Chanceford Presbyterian Church Family Carnival

Time: 3pm-6pm

Location: 1784 Woodbine Rd., Airville PA 17302



2. 05/31/26 Schuylkill Church of the Brethren

Location: 347 Sweet Arrow Lake Rd. Pine Grove PA

Time: 10am Open to the public/community

3. 05/31/26 at Tivoli Tavern

Location: 9522 Route 220 Hughesville PA 17737

Time: 2:30pm

Hope to see you there! 🤠🎻

05/26/2026

Clinton St mine opening-near Furdock-Newton Residence-late 1920's- early 1930's - These are from the photo library of the late Marianne Stratford. Is there anyone that knows exactly where the mine opening was? The Clinton Colliery was located east of Vandling and west of the Lackawanna River.

05/24/2026

Our society member Dale Keklock videoed the Coal-Fired Ramblers concert last night. They are very talented and put on a great show. If you missed it, here's the link to watch it.

FCHS, Coal Fired Ramblers, May 23, 2026

05/23/2026

TONIGHT'S THE NIGHT - COME IN OUT OF THE RAIN -

DON'T FORGET -- On Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM the Forest City Area Historical Society is proud to present a performance of The Coal-Fired Ramblers. The Coal-Fired Ramblers, a traditional bluegrass ensemble from Schuylkill County, PA, proudly represents the Anthracite Coal Region's distinctive cultural heritage. This dynamic group of musicians, united by familial bonds and friendships, is driven by a shared passion for bluegrass music. The Coal-Fired Ramblers' original compositions reflect their deep connection to local history and culture, addressing themes such as trains, pioneers, hard times, and coal mining. The band's performances also showcase their mastery of classic bluegrass songs from legendary artists. With their energetic and engaging live shows, The Coal-Fired Ramblers build lasting connections with their audience, inspiring a new appreciation for bluegrass music among younger generations. They would love to have you as a cherished listener! While at the concert, view the many historical items and history of the Forest City Regional Area. The
Forest City Area Historical Society Museum is handicapped accessible and air conditioned.
There is no admission fee for the concert, however, donations are
welcomed. Come and enjoy The Coal-Fired Ramblers in concert.

05/21/2026

A friend asked to have a photo of Stone Face. Scanned in 2 different dpi's.