Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum, Coal mining heritage museum in Scranton, United States
The Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum is a facility in McDade Park documenting the history of coal mining in northeastern Pennsylvania. It displays original equipment, photographs, and objects from the mining era that show how this industry shaped the region.
The museum was founded in 1971 to preserve the story of anthracite mining and its role in shaping Pennsylvania's industrial growth. Coal extraction dominated the region from the 1800s through much of the 1900s, creating one of America's major mining centers.
The exhibits show how immigrant families built communities around the mines, with displays of their homes, clothing, and daily routines. Visitors see personal objects and tools that reflect life both underground and in the neighborhoods above.
The museum is located in McDade Park and open Thursday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM, primarily from March through December. Visitors can explore the exhibits at their own pace and should wear comfortable shoes, as the park setting requires walking.
An underground passage connects the museum to an actual coal mine where visitors can descend about 90 meters underground. This direct experience allows people to understand the conditions and daily challenges miners faced.
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