Diversity in Pennsylvania’s Lumber Heritage Region

A Shared Code of Ethics

The lumber industry in Pennsylvania’s forests brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds. While these communities were often isolated, the shared challenges of the work fostered a unique camaraderie and mutual respect among workers. Central to this dynamic was an unwritten code of ethics that emphasized safety, trust, and responsibility.

Hiram Crammer, a self-proclaimed woodhick, described the importance of this code: “The reason few men were killed in the hemlock was the unwritten law of the woods that a careless man who endangered himself and others must be fired. The law of the woods was that a man must not be fired hungry, so at the close of the next meal he was handed his pay.” This simple but profound rule underscores the collective nature of the work, where the safety of one individual directly impacted the entire crew.

Tim Morey, a Natural Resource Specialist at Leonard Harrison State Park, noted that in the woods, “it didn’t matter the color of your skin or what your beliefs were. What truly mattered was that you could trust those you were working with.” This sentiment highlights the importance of collaboration and reliability in an environment where lives often depended on one another.

Elusive Diversity in the Camps

Despite the shared code of conduct, identifying and understanding diversity within the lumber camps can be challenging. Period photographs, while fascinating, rarely provide explicit details about individuals’ ethnicities, languages, or religious beliefs. However, subtle clues, such as group portraits and historical records, reveal glimpses of the diversity that existed in these communities.

One photograph from a Potter County lumber camp, donated by the Newell family, features a Black man seated prominently in the front row alongside his colleagues, as well as two women likely serving as camp cooks. These images serve as rare but important documentation of the racial and gender diversity present in the lumber industry.

Similarly, photographs from mills in Williamsport, Lycoming County, depict Black workers integrated into groups of predominantly white employees. While their numbers were small, their presence underscores the inclusive nature of certain workplaces within the region.

The Influence of Cultural Backgrounds

Diversity in the Lumber Heritage Region extended beyond race and gender. Workers brought with them unique cultural traditions and practices that shaped the communities in which they lived and worked. For example, Jewish immigrants operated stores and spoke Yiddish in some areas, while Pennsylvania Dutch communities contributed traditional remedies and spiritual practices like powwowing.

The mixture of Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, and other religious traditions further enriched the cultural tapestry of the region. This blend of backgrounds created a shared space where individuals could learn from one another and adapt to the challenges of camp life.

Women’s Contributions to Diversity

Women’s presence in lumber camps also reflected the region’s diversity. Often working as cooks, laundresses, or caregivers, women like those pictured in the Newell photograph played critical roles in maintaining the daily operations of the camps. Their contributions were essential not only for the well-being of the workers but also for creating a sense of home in these remote settings.

In some cases, families worked together in the camps, with children and spouses contributing in various ways. This family dynamic added another layer of diversity, as individuals from different backgrounds lived and worked alongside one another.

Challenges and Progress

While the lumber industry fostered a degree of inclusivity, it was not without its challenges. Racial and gender disparities persisted, and the contributions of marginalized groups were often overlooked in historical records. Nevertheless, the shared experiences of camp life helped bridge some of these divides, creating bonds that transcended traditional barriers.

Tim Morey’s reflections capture this spirit: “What truly mattered was you could trust those you were working with.” This trust was built on mutual respect and the understanding that success in the lumber industry required collaboration and teamwork.

Honoring the Region’s Diversity

The stories and photographs of Pennsylvania’s lumber camps offer a valuable glimpse into the diverse experiences of the individuals who worked there. From woodhicks and cooks to mill workers and merchants, each person played a role in shaping the region’s history.

By preserving and sharing these narratives, we honor the contributions of those who brought their unique backgrounds and perspectives to the industry. Their resilience and adaptability remind us of the importance of diversity in fostering strong and vibrant communities.

A Legacy of Unity

The Lumber Heritage Region’s history is one of hard work, shared values, and diverse contributions. These stories serve as a testament to the strength that comes from embracing differences and working together toward a common goal. By celebrating this legacy, we ensure that the region’s rich and varied history continues to inspire future generations.