Unearth the hidden stories of Pennsylvania’s lumber heritage with “Roots Uncovered.” Delve into narratives drawn from the LHR diversity research report – Women and Black History in the Forest Products Industry/ showcasing the contributions and experiences of underrepresented communities.
These stories share the involvement and experiences of the often underrepresented workforce that helped to shape the timber industry; highlighting the rich, multifaceted history of our forests and the people who lived and worked among them.
As these themes are explored, they begin to demonstrate how the roots that connect us all also connected the Pennsylvania Lumber Industries to some of our Nation’s most influential moments in history.
Roots Uncovered
On a crisp May morning in 1901, Annie Myers boarded a timber raft with her husband, Thomas, and their sons, embarking on what would become a historic journey from Lock Haven to Marietta. A story immortalized in The Clinton Republican hailed Annie as the first and only woman to ma... Read more
Roots Uncovered
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. Read more
Roots Uncovered
The lumber industry in Pennsylvania brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds and faiths, creating a unique tapestry of spiritual practices in the remote forests of the Lumber Heritage Region. Read more
Roots Uncovered
Life in Pennsylvania’s lumber camps was rugged and demanding, yet for some, it was also a family affair. Families like Alma and Jake Swanson’s Read more
Roots Uncovered
The turn of the 20th century brought significant changes to Pennsylvania’s lumber industry. Advancements in technology and transportation expanded access to remote forests, while the growing demand for wood fueled the rise of related industries. Read more
Roots Uncovered
The Lumber Heritage Region of Pennsylvania is steeped in history, with stories that intertwine industry, progress, and the fight for justice. Read more
Roots Uncovered
The Wheeler and Dusenbury Lumber Company played a pivotal role in shaping Pennsylvania’s Lumber Heritage Region during the early 20th century. With vast holdings of pine, hemlock, and hardwood in Warren and Forest counties Read more
Roots Uncovered
Carol Zuzek’s story is one of determination, skill, and resilience. As a trailblazer in Pennsylvania’s lumber industry, Carol not only contributed to her family’s business but also redefined the role of women in a field traditionally dominated by men. Read more
Roots Uncovered
The story of Annie Myers is one of resilience, determination, and adaptability. Growing up in the Pennsylvania Lumber Heritage Region, Annie’s life reflects the challenges and opportunities of living in a community shaped by the lumber industry. Read more
Roots Uncovered
The life of Minnie Showers Test provides a unique and vivid account of growing up in Pennsylvania’s lumber camps during the early 20th century. Read more
Roots Uncovered
The early 20th century was a time of intense activity in Pennsylvania’s lumber camps, where the work was grueling and the environment often isolating. Read more
Roots Uncovered
In the late 19th century, Pennsylvania’s lumber camps were bustling hubs of activity, with workers depending on the camp cooks for their daily sustenance. The quality and quantity of food served at these camps could make or break a crew’s morale Read more
Roots Uncovered
When we think of Pennsylvania’s lumber industry, images of rugged woodhicks and towering trees often come to mind. Yet, behind the scenes, women played critical roles in the success of lumber camps. Read more
Roots Uncovered
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania's Lumber Heritage Region, Forest County is home to rich stories of resilience, hard work, and community. One of these stories centers on Bertha Whitton. Read more
Roots Uncovered
The Underground Railroad is one of the most profound examples of resistance against slavery in American history. This clandestine network helped enslaved individuals escape from bondage in the South, often guiding them to freedom in the North or even as far as Canada. Read more
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