We bring our past into the present
Through our newly expanded and renovated Center, visitors can learn what has been, until recently, the untold story of thousands of Americans—resident, emigrant and immigrant—who came to work and live in this beautiful corner of Pennsylvania, and who created a unique culture and story. Here you can learn more about southwestern Pennsylvania’s contribution to America’s Industrial Revolution through three thematic units representing the topics: Coal, Coke, and Community. The Center’s interpretive text panels make it easy to learn more about the origin of Connellsville Coke Region, its integration through changing technology, and the ultimate demise of the beehive coking industry. Visitors will learn of the people who came to work in the industries that came to dominate and mold them. New text panels and exhibit cases, along with vintage photo reproductions and excerpts from our oral history collection, educate and enhance patrons of all ages. For those who care to dig deeper, our reference area provides opportunities to explore and document your interests and to further understand the impact of our local history upon our nation’s history.
