Workforce Development

Roots Uncovered

Roots Uncovered in Pennsylvania’s Lumber Heritage Region

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

Faith in the Forest: Religious Life in Pennsylvania’s Lumber Heritage Region

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

Alma and Jake Swanson: Life as a Family in Pennsylvania’s Lumber Camps

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

Idessa Roupp: A Trailblazer in Pennsylvania’s Lumber Camps

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

Celebrating Black History in the Lumber Heritage Region

The Lumber Heritage Region of Pennsylvania is steeped in history, with stories that intertwine industry, progress, and the fight for justice. Read more