Northumberland County Area History Shamokin 125 years City of Shamokin, Pennsylvania 1864-1989 USGENWEB NOTICE: Printing this file by non-commercial individuals and libraries is encouraged, as long as all notices and submitter information is included. Any other use, including copying files to other sites requires permission from the submitters PRIOR to uploading to any other sites. We encourage links to the state and county table of contents. Transcribed for the PAGenWeb Project by: Bruce T. Hall Mining Changes As the anthracite business continued to emerge from the crude mining methods employed in the 19th century, safety laws were constantly being revised or new ones added in order to protect the lives and safeguard the health of the men who worked at the mining of hard coal. Proper ventilation was accomplished by huge fans that forced fresh air into the mines. Ventilation, the safety of roofs to prevent cave-ins or "squeezes," the possibility of mine floods --- these and other contingencies keep the coal engineers constantly on the alert to detect and prevent any possible mine accidents. About 1810 --- at any rate, after the turn of the century --- there was a great improvement added for the miner's convenience. He was able to go forth to work in his street clothes. When he arrived at the mine, he would unlock the long chain which was for his own personal use, and let down on the drawn-up end of the chain upon which his working clothes were hung. Donning these, he would put his street apparel in its place, haul it up with his chain, and lock it. In the evening, he would take a shower and reverse the above. These long chains usually had wire baskets fastened to one end. The baskets also contained soap and other small items. Also early in the 20th century, the miner could sign a voluntary agreement with the company's general store to permit deductions from his wages of purchases made between paydays. This new procedure was made necessary because of a law which corrected the former abuse. But our miner friend could not get rid of the coal dust which he had breathed all day. So he still welcomed a cold beverage at the conclusion of his shift. On his way home, the miner often stopped at a nearby saloon where he purchased a "growler" of beer. The container which held the beer was usually the lunch pail he had emptied at work that day. The Shamokin State Hospital On January 8, 1912, a state hospital was opened on the hillside leading to Brush Valley. The hospital was created for the injured persons (particularly the miners) of the Treverton, Shamokin, and Mount Carmel coal fields. This indeed filled a vast need for the area in view of the many persons engaged in hazardous occupations. Originally erected to take care of 45 persons, at the end of the very first year, the daily average was 52; 1,12 patients had been confined in the wards or private rooms; 3,151 were treated as outpatients in the dispensary; making a total of 4,365 people who were attended to in the hospital's first year. The institution was in the very capable hands of Dr. George W. Reese, chief surgeon, his only aide being Dr. A. S. Jones. The figures cited above illustrate how busy they were. The state appropriation for the first two years was $38,000, and it is interesting to note here that the daily average cost per patient, including salaries, supplies, heat, and light, was but $1.97 per day. 1913 A newspaper article of this year reveals that Maysville Park would open its season on May 25th. The story goes on to tell that the pavilion roof and dancing floor were extensively repaired. The Thomas Orchestra of Shamokin had been engaged to supply music for dancing and concert music for the entire season. Situated at a point easily accessible by highway or trolley, Maysfield Park was one of the area's most popular pleasure resorts. Located on an elevated tract, its splendid pine-encircled pavilion offered an extended view of the surrounding country. This pavilion, with its magnificent dancing floor, the spacious restaurant, and other conveniences, were of dimensions seldom seen outside of the large and popular seashore resorts. A souvenir book had this to say: "The tennis court is another feature unique in this locality, which has proven a popular innovation. The utmost good order is at all times maintained by the management, which has in its contemplation, the adding of other attractions and improvements which will make Maysville Park, attractive as it is already with its natural beauty, one of the most popular amusement resorts in Central Pennsylvania." Further scanning of news stories led to a report on the extensive improvements made to the Cresco Club on Sunbury Street. Richly decorated and with the entire second floor turned into recreation rooms, the club was not only a showplace but its eminent members a powerful influence on the area. Another report announced that John Matthews of Shenandoah was formerly inaugurated as president of the Ninth Anthracite District of the United Mine Workers of America, headquartered in Dime Bank Building. A yarn about the Reading Railroad culverts on the way to Sunbury provided interesting reading. It seems that the stone culverts (at Tharptown, Paxinos, and two at Irish Valley) were first built in 1883 and widened in 1890. The story remarks of their excellent condition after so many years. We can still see these culverts and, perhaps, make the same comments today. 1864 -- Semi-Centennial -- 1914 Excitement galore came to Shamokin in June 1914 as the area celebrated its 50th birthday. It was a scene to behold: surging crowds, bunting fluttering, commemorative oration, and martial music, intermingled with pageants and parades. The celebration opened Sunday, June 28th, on a somber note, with special services in all the churches. This, the first day, was appropriately called "Religious Day." "Forefathers' Day," being Monday, began at 9 AM with a floral automobile parade which included bands and prizes. Following this, all civic leaders gathered at City Hall for a reception. At 2 PM, a pageant portraying the early Indians and the advent of civilization was recreated. Afterwards, the home- comers paraded over the principal streets. The scene then moved indoors as anniversary exercises opened in the Opera House. Proving, perhaps, that speech making is becoming a lost art today is the long list of speakers ans speeches on this occasion. The addresses were "Commemorative Oration," John Jenkins, Esq.; "The Democracy of Shamokin and the Greater Americanism," Charles Beury, Esq.; "Greater Shamokin," Leopold Glass, Esq.; and "Memories of Old Time Shamokin,"Col. D. C. Kaseman. Because it was "Industrial Day," Semi-Centennial Tuesday began early with addresses by Messr. Hayes and Green, vice president and secretary of the United Mine Workers. The afternoon beheld a gigantic industrial Pageant of floats, bands, and illustrative displays. The day was concluded with an open-air concert by the Shamokin Philharmonic Choral Society --- 240 voices. Wednesday, "School Day," began with exercises illustrating "Modern School Methods" at all school buildings in Shamokin and at the high school and the McKinley building in Coal Township. The highlight of the day was the laying of the cornerstone at the new Shamokin High School. Gaiety ruled the evening as the alumni associations of Shamokin, Coal Township, and St. Edwards High Schools, and the Shamokin and Bliss Business Colleges, reunited and renewed old acquaintances. Thursday was "Firemen's Day," and the big event was, of course, the parade. The evening was again filled with revelry. "Young America Day" followed on Friday with a four-division parade consisting mostly of school children in costume. The procession began with Brown's Colonial Band, the official semi- centennial band, wearing the uniforms of George Washington's Life Guard Band. The divisions proceeded in this order: Pioneer Period, Colonial Period, Founders of the Republic, and, lastly, the Modern Period with eleven companies of schoolchildren. This grand parade was said to have contained almost 5,000 school children alone. Appropriately, Saturday, July 4, 1914, was "Old Glory Day." Special Independence Day exercises began with the recitation of the Declaration of Independence by the Honorable Fred B. Moser and ensued with oratory by John I. Welsh, Esq. Two o'clock noted the march of the Fraternals as lodges, societies, unions, clubs, and civic organizations passed by. Truly it was a day of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. The evening, and with it the semi-centennial celebration, came to a close with a colossal fireworks display. And thus the 50th Anniversary passed. Before World War I In 1914, though war was raging in Europe, life here was comparatively peaceful and following a purposeful, prosperous pace. The area's mines --- such collieries as the Cameron, Bear Valley, and Luke Fidler, to name a few --- were operating at full blast, producing coal with ever- increasing efficiency for an ever-widening market. Factories were just as busy. The J.H. & C. K. Eagle Silk Mill, in its large complex of buildings, was turning out fabrics for use throughout the world as well as the nation. The Press Local Residents were reading the Shamokin Dispatch, the Shamokin Herald, and the Shamokin Daily News --- three newspapers being published at the same time. Hotels Out-of-town visitors had a good choice of hotels in which they could find comfortable accommodations. Largest of these was the 100-room Hotel Graemar, now known as the Hotel James Madison, located on the southwest corner of Shamokin and Commerce Streets; and the new Windsor Hotel, which was situated at the present site of the American Legion building. The latter hotel, located at Independence and Liberty Streets, was destroyed by fire shortly after the conclusion of World War I. Also enjoying popularity was the historic Mansion House, located at the corner where Market, Arch, and Lincoln Streets meet, which provided excellent stabling Farmers and their families, after a many-hour trip into town by horse-drawn wagon to sell their produce, found the Mansion House hospitality and food to their liking. The Mansion House One of the community's most interesting buildings --- once the largest private residence in town - -- was the old Mansion House. This rambling structure, which was situated on the triangular now occupied by a convenience store, between Arch and Lincoln Streets on Market, was erected in 1854. Originally, it was to serve as a girl's dormitory for the Lutheran-sponsored Shamokin Collegiate Institute.. Very imposing in appearance, fronted by a spacious veranda, the brick building was 54 feet square, five stories high, and contained 46 rooms. During its long and colorful history --- as a residence, as a public hostelry, and, finally, as a lodge home --- it served a variety of purposes under different ownerships. From 1854 to 1858, it was also used for church fairs and dancing schools. In 1858, it was purchased by a Mr. Longenecker, who lived their for several years. In the 1870s, the building, still not quite finished, was sold for taxes to William Brown and his brother-in-law, Dominick Lynch. The new owners preceded to have some additional work done on the interior. During the years that followed, the late '70s and '80s, Lynch and his family operated the building as a boarding house, with a barroom located in the basement. Now known as the Mansion House, a livery stable was constructed at the rear of the building and this stabling facility remained in use well into the present century. In the 1890s, the Mansion House was owner by John E. Barr, who advertised a "first-class table, the finest liquors, good sleeping apartments, and first-class accommodations for farmers and travelers at low rates with good stabling." In the early 1920's, having been sold to the Loyal Order of Moose, it became a lodge home. For a time previous to this, the basement had been occupied by the Wetzel Hotel. The fraternal organization was headquartered in the building until 1926, after which it was occupied by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Eventually, in the 1950s, it was torn down. Thus ended the long, useful life of the Mansion House, spanning almost a century. A service station was later erected on the site. Smaller Hotels In addition to the three major hotels previously mentioned which catered primarily to a transient clientele, the town had many smaller hostelries, Among these were the Pennsylvania House, the Germania, City, Girard and Eagle Hotels, all of which offered rooms by the day, week, or month. With few exceptions, these hotels were located in the immediate vicinity of both the Reading and Pennsylvania Railroad Stations. Although not as luxurious in appointments, perhaps, as their larger counterparts, these residence-type hotels provided a friendly, homelike atmosphere which many found appealing. Good Restaurants The community had a wealth of good eating places in those days. All of the large and small hotels offered "a fine table." In addition, any number of restaurants and grills served tempting meals as well as particular food specialties. One of the most popular restaurants of the period was the Columbia Grill on East Independence Street where local and out-of-town patrons were provided "luxurious surroundings, epicurean cuisine, and Melodious music." Special a la carte service for "automobiles" was a feature which attracted motoring parties from all over the region. Extra attention was also given to the serving of banquets. Motorization Dramatic changes were taking place inside and outside the home. New conveniences were in evidence everywhere. More and more of the town's residences were being wired for electricity. Slowly but surely, transportation on the towns thoroughfares was becoming motorized. The noises of progress grew louder with each passing day as exciting sounds of automobiles and delivery trucks vied with clanging trolleys and clip-clopping horses. A classy Stanley Steamer or a heavy International Harvester truck was becoming a fairly familiar sight, With this combination of old horse-drawn equipment and new motor-driven vehicles, traffic was growing complex, indeed. Livery stables like Martz and McCollum at Rock and Spurzheim Streets, Burr Hull's at Market and Lincoln Streets, and Holshue's on Sunbury Street near Market still very much in business. But the need for such facilities were on the wane. The new vehicles required garages, tires, replacement parts, and innumerable accessories. Eventually all three were replaced by business enterprises more attuned to the times --- with buildings, which to this day, are devoted to the selling, servicing, and storage of automobiles. Leisure-Time Activities In the process of mining hard coal and manufacturing soft goods for faraway consumption, the greater Shamokin area was earning a position of some prominence on America's economic map. Even more important, these two major industries, in addition to various smaller ones located here, were creating a better way of life for an increasing population. With rising wages and a shorter work week came more time for recreation and entertainment. Shamokinites, traditionally hardworking in their occupational pursuits, applied themselves just as enthusiastically to their leisure-time activities. They took pride and pleasure in organizing and supporting bands and baseball teams, dances and minstrel shows, parades and picnics. In the early decades of the Twentieth Century, "live" music played a very important role in local family life. Practically every home had one of Edison's "talking machines" or later model victrolas, and many had then-popular player pianos. But these were also the days of evening songfests around the piano, small family "orchestras," and impromptu music-making wherever a group gathered, whether indoors or outdoors. Band Concerts and Outings at Edgewood Park Music-lovers wouldn't dream of missing the free Sunday afternoon band concerts at the pavilion at Edgewood Park. During the summer, families en masse would flock to this famous recreation spot. In fact, excursionists from all over the state would come to Edgewood --- often by special train --- for their outings, to enjoy the park's remarkable natural beauty and unusually fine entertainment. Developed by Monroe H. (Farmer) Kulp, this unique pleasure resort, which was now at its heyday, offered something for everyone. There was a picturesque lake for boating, a scenic atmosphere for picnicking, and a wondrous variety of amusements to delight adults and children alike. Evenings there were the widely popular dances, also free to the public, which drew large and loyal attendance from surrounding communities as well as Shamokin. Downtown Shamokin In these carefree pre-war years of low-swept skirts and high celluloid collars, Shamokinites were greatly attracted to the comedy and drama portrayed on celluloid film. Various downtown movie houses, showing the latest "photoplays," and featuring piano accompaniment by local musicians, provided diversified entertainment for movie goers of all ages. The largest of these theaters was the Victoria, which was something of a showplace with its ornate facade and elaborate interior, decorated in the "movie Palace" style of the period. Independence Street, on Sunday evenings, was crowded with young promenaders. Interestingly, it was the north side of the street on which the young folks walked to meet and see their friends. There was little "window-shopping" since most of the stores at that time were confined to the south side of the street. Johnny Moore's Ice Cream Parlor, located in the "Triangle Building" at Independence and Orange Streets, was a popular meeting place at that time. A few people, clinging to an old tradition, still made their own ice cream for special occasions. But the days of the three-quart freezer, with its endless cracking, its rock salt, and melting ice --- and inevitable salt crystals in the cream --- were fast coming to an end. A number pf local ice cream parlors made their own delicious versions of the popular confection, but it was with the advent of large commercial producers like McClow's Ice Cream Factory, then located at Franklin and Commerce Streets, that really made the old freezer buckets obsolete. 1917 -- The Elks State Convention 1917 was a momentous year in the community --- important in terms of growth, prosperity, and activity. This was the year that Shamokin was host to the 11th Annual Pennsylvania State Convention of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks --- perhaps the greatest Elks celebration in the town's history. 1917 -- Vital Statistics In this eventful year, Shamokin and Coal Township had reached a combined population of 45,000. More than 12,000 "men and boys" were employed in the ten anthracite-producing collieries. Other industries were employing many thousands more. The Eagle silk mills, dye works, and throwing plant alone had approximately 3,000 men and women on their payrolls. Everyday, 23 passenger trains passed through the town. Four trolley lines were in operation, efficiently serving local area transportation needs. There were eight miles of paved streets, twenty hotels, and a state hospital. With twelve modern school buildings and the new Shamokin High School on Arch Street between Eighth and Marshall, the twin community's youth was well- provided with educational facilities. Three silk mills, knitting mills, throwing plants, and other industries were adding to sizeable payrolls to the extent to the extent of $1.5 million a month. There were 27 churches, 5 theaters, 5 banks with combined resources of $12 million, and modern electric light and gas plants. More than 600 business places, not counting the factories, were profiting from a prosperous trading population of 70,000 persons. Undoubtedly, these vital statistics were a clear reflection of a robust, energetic town on the move. 1917 -- World War I This was also the year when the far less joyful facts and figures of World War I began to be felt. The declaration of hostilities, on April 6th, found Shamokin and Coal Township eager to respond patriotically. It was typical of local residents that at home and on the fighting front, they served their country with notable distinction and spirit. In 1917, local men scored an enlistment record surpassing that of any other community of comparable size and population. Whatever the activity in relation to the war effort, the twin communities reacted overwhelmingly. When there was a preparedness parade, many thousands of people participated. When Liberty Bonds were offered to help finance the war, the response of local people was, again, record breaking. And, when the Patriotic League was formed to collect and send needed articles to France, local boys in faraway trenches received ample proof that their hometown remembered them well. 1918 -- The Flu Epidemic These were trying times for the people back home. Adding to the tragic casualties of the overseas fighting was the havoc wrought by the insidious influenza epidemic during September and October of 1918. Within a week from the time the first few cases were discovered here, the disease had spread like wildfire. Schools were closed. The entire town was in a state of alarm. With the war still in progress, there was a serious shortage of physicians and nurses. The large pavilion at Edgewood Park was quickly transformed into an emergency hospital, but there remained the problem of obtaining a nursing staff. Among the many who worked heroically during this emergency were a group of nuns and their assistants. A member of the community's health board had consulted with Monsignor M. M. Hasslett of St. Edward's Church, asking if the sisters could help care for the desperately ill. Losing, no time, it was arraigned that three daily relays, each of eight sisters with some senior pupils, would take over the emergency hospital under the charge of the attending physicians. The three convents which gave this invaluable volunteer nursing were St. Edward's, St. Stanislaus', and St. Joseph's. Shamokin's death toll resulting from the flu epidemic was a terrible one. Miners of long standing, with lungs already clogged and weakened by coal dust, were its particular victims. 1919-1922 -- Peace and Prosperity In 1919, after the Armistice had been signed and the men in service had come home, the community settled down and began picking up the threads of peacetime living. The town was becoming increasingly aware that the war had acted as a stimulus to business and industry. After four years of a depleting war, Europe was asking America for the supplies it could not produce. This meant generally greater demand for the products and goods produced and sold here. More coal was also needed for fuel as well as for conversion into steam and electricity for power. Although consumer prices had risen rapidly during the war years, more consumer goods of every description were needed to fill the void left by wartime shortages. This was good for Shamokin and the people who earned their livelihood here. A number of new retail business came into being. These new stores, as well as the old, were well-patronized, not only by local residents, but by shoppers from many small outlying communities. People came from Berry's, Brady, Excelsior, Coal Run, Hickory Ridge, Kulpmont, Atlas, Green Ridge, and Mount Carmel --- all points on or near the streetcar route from here to Mount Carmel. Often a shopping trip to town involved walking a good distance to and from a particular trolley stop. Shoppers from the Treverton area had a choice of traveling via streetcar or on the early-morning miners' trains of that period. 1919 -- Six-County Firemen's Convention In 1919, the Six-County Firemen's Convention was held in Shamokin. This "big time in the old town" was marked by an elaborate parade which brought many participants and spectators from out-of-town. 1922 -- UMWA District Convention From January 16 to 22, 1922, Shamokin was the scene of a district convention of the United Mine Workers of America. This significant conclave attracted a number of union leaders who later became outstanding figures in national labor circles. Among these were: John L. Lewis, the then UMWA president; Thomas Kennedy, succeeding UMWA president; William Green and Philip Murray, then secretary-treasurer and vice president of the UMWA, respectively; Chris J. Golden and James McAndrews, president and secretary of UMWA District 9, respectively. The 1922 Coal Strike In the early part of 1922, much attention was being focused on the problem of labor and management in the coal mining industry. The Shamokin area had much at stake in the resolving of these differences between miners and mine operators. The general strike, called on April 1, brought about important changes for all concerned. A year later, April 2nd was being observed by the miners as a no-work holiday to celebrate establishment of the eight-hour work day in the anthracite and bituminous coal fields. About this time, anthracite coal producers were in the process of appealing an increase in tax assessments from $24 million to $52 million. A local colliery spokesman testified that the coal in the ground was worth only six cents a ton and for valuation purposes should not be valued at more than two cents a ton. 1923 -- The Mines are Busy By 1923, the town was experiencing a new era of prosperity. Area mines were busy filling orders and building up a much-needed reserve of hard coal. To equal the reserve on hand before the previous year's coal strike would take many months. Banks of coal mine culm, a standard sign of mining progress, were rising higher and higher. The list of mines and collieries in large-scale operation included such memorable names as the previously mentioned Cameron, Bear Valley, and Luke Fidler collieries, as well as the Burnside, Hickory Ridge, Big Mountain, Enterprise, and Locust Gap mines. Major coal-producing facilities such as these, were continuing to help shape the development of the community and the destiny of its people. Money in Circulation Many residents were cashing in the Savings Bonds they had purchased during the conflict with Germany. More people were working and earning more for their labors. There was money in the community and it was being circulated in all business and industrial directions. Entertainment Money was also being spent for entertainment --- for attending movies and stage shows, concerts, and dances. Four large theaters were in operation --- the Victoria and new Majestic, whose policy it was to present films, exclusively; the Strand, which featured a combination of movies and vaudeville shows; and the Family, where one could see musical reviews and comedies, On April 4th of this year, as part of the Great Artists Course, the local management presented Pablo Casals, the world's greatest cellist, in an unforgettable recital. On April 9th, Rosa Ponselle, dramatic soprano, and Guiseppe Danise, baritone, thrilled music lovers in the final offering of the season. The musical events of this series were held in the New Majestic Theater. Earlier this year, on January 10th, Mozart's opera comique, "The Impresario," with an all-star cast, was presented for the benefit of the Shamokin Visiting Nurse Association. Among the many talented local musicians performing before audiences was the Yew Bee Male Quartet, considered to be one of the community's most promising vocal groups. On January 22nd, the Y.M.H.A. --- Young Men's Hebrew Association --- held its annual ball in the Edgewood Park pavilion. Music was provided by the famous Saxons Orchestra of Scranton. And, as an added attraction, the Williams Sisters, singers and dancers, performed. Building Construction Building construction was at a high peak in 1923. In the three previous years, many new buildings and expansions of old structures were added to the Shamokin scene. Also contributing to the renewed, forward look were the countless homes and business places being rebuilt and remodeled. Among these were the mammoth new McClow Ice Cream Company plant; a new main plant and ice house for the Fuhrmann and Schmidt Brewing Company; buildings and facilities for the Taubel knitting mill, the Hewisco silk mill, and Erb & Zaring. There were new garages --- one occupied by I. K. Wetzel & Sons, another by Flock & Gleason. Preliminary construction plans for the Shamokin Valley Country Club were in work. The magnificent new American Legion Memorial Hall, built as a citizen's memorial to the boys who served valiantly in World War I, had been completed at a cost of $250,000. The Windsor Hotel Block The site on which now stood the American Legion's impressive new structure had long been known as the Windsor Hotel block. Jonas Gilger, one of Shamokin's first contracting carpenters, was the original owner of the site at Independence and Liberty streets. C. P. Helfenstein purchased the land from Gilger and erected an imposing three-story brick building which was christened the Academy of Music. The Academy was a close rival of and probably outclassed the Douty "brownstone front," located on the corner of Sunbury and Rock Streets, as a center of public entertainment and business activities. Theatricals were presented in the assembly hall on the second floor. Elmer Helfenstein operated a publishing and printing plant on the third floor, to which stock supplies were hoisted by rope and pulley block. Retail business stores were on the first or ground floor. In later years, the Academy was extensively remodeled and modernized for a new purpose. The east wing above the ground floor was changed into a reception lobby and office quarters for the new Windsor Hotel which, for many years, would be famous for good food and hospitality. Rooms for overnight guests were located in the south and west sections of the building. Operators and managers of the Windsor during various periods include William Doolittle, Oliver Drumheller, J. A. Ring, and J. W. Henrie. John Roach, later a county commissioner, operated a barber shop in the basement quarters beneath the reception lobby. Frank Dubbs was the proprietor of a bowling alley installed in an enlarged section of the hotel basement. Owners of retail business establishments who occupied the store rooms at pavement level included Shoener & Leibig, (Frank Shoener and George Leibig), shoes and footwear; Howell Shoener, millinery; and Abe Braude, clothier; among others. George W. Fagley and William Muir, pioneer merchants, were partners in a general merchandising enterprise at the corner of Independence and Liberty Streets. This store room, in later years, supplied temporary quarters for handling local mail while a new post office was being constructed at Sunbury and Rock Streets. F. E. Ammerman previously operated a general store at that corner for a few years. The Windsor Hotel was the setting for many important events. James G. Blaine, famed national statesman and candidate for the presidency, once addressed a political gathering from the hotel balcony that extended over the pavement. On another occasion, just a short stone's throw from the Windsor, Theodore Roosevelt spoke to a similar crowd from the rear platform of a Reading passenger train. This was during his Bull Moose campaign. In 1919, after a long and eventful history, the Windsor Hotel block was destroyed by fire. Soon afterward, the American Legion, Post No. 73, acquired the site and the present building was constructed. This building, too, provided store space on the ground floor. Occupants of these stores, at the time of the new structure's completion were the Busy Bee Restaurant; Joe Robbins, mens clothier; and the Mirbach Store, women's apparel. On April 3, 1933, when General Smedly Butler visited the local American Legion Post, he commented that the building was the finest Legion home he had seen in his extensive travels. Prohibition and Other Problems In 1923, the greater Shamokin area, along with the rest of the country, was having problems in the enforcement of prohibition. Local residents were talking about the passing of the Pinchot dry law abolishing all liquor licenses. Governor Pinchot was depending upon this law to "drive the saloons from the state," as he had promised during his election campaign. That spring, local businessmen and homeowners were repairing the damage caused by high March winds. A 60-mph gale had wrecked the popular scenic railway at Edgewood Park. Eventually it was rebuilt at a cost of $12,000. The Taubel Mill In 1923, the Taubel Mill --- or Taubel, Scot Kitzmiller Co., as it was then named --- was installing 300 new knitting machines which would mean a substantial increase in jobs. In this mill, which manufactured women's hosiery, the greater Shamokin area possessed an important factor in the development of the hosiery trade. Originally names the W. F. Taubel & Son Knitting Mill, it was located on Walnut Street at the Reading Railroad crossing. This firm, at its peak in the early '20s, employed well over 1,000 persons here. Although women employees were in the majority, a large number of men were employed as machinists and on the heavy-work jobs. Based in Riverside, New Jersey, this flourishing industrial firm was a multi-plant operation, with facilities that included factories in Mount Carmel and Tamaqua. It continued in operation here until 1926. A New Dam The Roaring Creek Water Company was pushing work on a new dam, that would increase the already abundant supply of pure spring water for the community. Ultimately; families, businesses and industrial firms, and the area's mines would all benefit from this action. New Stores Mercantile establishments were increasing in numbers, not only on both sides of Independence Street, but on secondary shopping thoroughfares such as Shamokin, Sunbury, and Market Streets. Many of the prominent firms of the early '20s, some of which had been in business for a generation or two, are but memories today. Among these were Burd & Rogers (the Bee Hive Department Store), and O. K. Wetzel and C. C. Leader, which sold a variety of merchandise including wearing apparel, dry goods, and notions. Also, there were Shapiro & Brother, men's and women's wear; Gelb & Mayer, the Mirbach Store; Max Hirsch; Apfelbaum's, women's apparel; Joe Robins, Hirsch & Patt Co., W. Konetzka & Bros., men and boy's clothing; E. F. Schrawder, children's wear; T. H. Lippiatt & Sons, furniture; Hack and Sanner, hardware; and the Shamokin Candy Kitchen. Earlier, the "Fair" Store had been destroyed on the disastrous Independence Street fire of 1916. Also gone from the business scene are such emporiums of fancy groceries, such as H. Steward & Sons and the Knight Store, which stocked choice selections of staples and delicacies gathered from every corner of the world. The 1926 Coal Strike In 1926, in the midst of general prosperity, the greater Shamokin area found itself in serious economic trouble. All of the mines in the area were idled by a coal strike, which lasted many months. This was the worst strike since the history-making strike of 1902. This was not the first time that Shamokin's progress was halted by labor-management disputes, work stoppages, and the resulting loss of income. Through the years, the community had become well-schooled in the art of taking such difficulties in stride. In the final analysis, however, it was the people --- greater Shamokin's greatest asset --- who provided the driving force for overcoming such setbacks. In this strike situation, the hardships of widespread unemployment, over a prolonged period, were alleviated to a great extent by the continuing cooperation of local business people. Countless merchants were generous in extending credit to the jobless for necessary food and clothing. Fortunately, this would be the last coal strike to have such lasting consequences. Happier Happenings in 1926 In the late summer of that year, there were many cheerful signs that Shamokinites were enjoying themselves and looking optimistically to the future. Local women were buying racoon coats at "August fur sale prices." A carnival dance at Edgewood Park, with music by popular Joe Nesbit and his Pennsylvanians, attracted more than 300 couples. Many families attended a big "Dutch Day" celebration at nearby Island Park. Reliance Hosiery Mills were in the market for "top knitters." The residents of Bear Valley Avenue were petitioning the state in order to force the building of a street on the northwest side of town. And, in an effort to improve traffic conditions and safety, the borough was in the process of purchasing a number of traffic lights. There had been quite a controversy over the contract for this purchase. Omicrons and Phi Rhos For many years, the local Theta Chapter of Omicron Pi Sigma was an active group. Their New Year's Eve dances, a tradition since 1906, were outstanding social functions. In the summer of 1926, the Omicrons sent a representative to the national convention of the intermediate fraternity. Phi Rho Sigma was another active social fraternity. The highlight of the Phi Rho's activity was an annual Farmer's Dance, which was held in the late autumn. Also in the early 20's, basketball teams representing both fraternities played in the City Basketball League. The good fellowship and organized social events sponsored by these flourishing groups, as well as other clubs of the period, filled very definite social needs. However, changing times brought changes in recreational patterns and, eventually these clubs were disbanded. The 1929 Crash One of America's most remarkable periods of prosperity, 1922 to 1929, was drawing to a close. It was the end of an era for the greater Shamokin area, too. Hundreds of local residents, perhaps even thousands, were involved in the current wave of stock market speculation. Encouraged by substantial paper profits, and confident in the soundness of the Nation's economy, Shamokinites in all walks of life had invested money in stocks and bonds. In many cases, this was money that they could ill afford to lose. It was money set aside for security in old age; for paying off a home mortgage; for starting or expanding a business; or for financing a child's college education. Then came the stock market crash in October 1929. Here as in the rest of the country, the collapse of stock prices caused the dwindling of many personal fortunes and the shattering of countless individual plans for the future. The serious depression that followed was keenly in the community. Prevailing conditions --- closed factories, unemployment, reduced prices, bankruptcies, and wage cuts --- all had a detrimental influence on the local business and industrial scene. There was, however, one bright spot in the dark days of this period --- the stability of local banking houses. Shamokin did not have a single bank failure. Every dollar on deposit in the town's banks was secure and available to any depositor wishing to make a withdrawal. There were five banks in Shamokin at that time: the National-Dime Bank of Shamokin, the Guarantee Trust & Safe Deposit Company, the Market Street National Bank, the Shamokin Banking & Trust Company, and the Peoples Bank. It is a lasting credit to the management of these financial institutions that throughout this difficult period, all of them remained financially strong. Buses Replace Street Cars Another era, rich in memories, had passed. In 1929, the Shamokin and Edgewood Electric Railway Company converted from streetcars to motorbus service. For many years, its trolleys provided transportation to Edgewood Park, Treverton, and Weigh Scales. The other local line replaced its streetcars with buses at a later date. Newspapers Merge On September 18, 1933, the Shamokin Dispatch and the Shamokin News merged, thus creating the Shamokin News-Dispatch. The combining of these two daily newspapers resulted in considerably wider distribution. Works Progress Administration It would be superfluous to relate in, detail, the trials and tribulations experienced during the turbulent early and mid-'30s. What was happening here was a reflection of what was happening throughout the country. Soon it became clear that the depression would be one of the worst in our country's history and, certainly, of longer duration than was first expected. The extreme gravity of the situation demanded drastic measures. All attention was riveted on Washington. What would the federal government do? The emergency action that was so urgently needed came quickly. The emergency WPA appropriations for public improvements, so controversial in some quarters, would prove to be highly effective in relieving unemployment and stimulating business. Certainly, this was true in the Shamokin area. On its own, the community instituted a number of programs designed to alleviate some of the economic hardships from which many local families were suffering. In addition, local government officials deemed it advisable to take advantage of WPA funds as a means of helping to finance needed construction and improvements. Ultimately, under borough sponsorship, a number of ambitious projects were completed on this basis. Over a period of years, in the later 1930s, the WPA provided jobs for many people here. To this day, the greater Shamokin area benefits from the resulting improvements in community facilities. With the borough furnishing only the materials, many cement pavements were laid. Two comfort stations were constructed, one on Liberty Street, the other on Market. An extensive WPA project for the betterment of the community was the grading of the Shamokin Creek bed, from Rock Street to the Cameron Bridge. WPA labor also built the decorative stone walls which line both sides of the creek. Unquestionably, this major construction work, aside from its utilitarian purpose, helped to beautify what was once considered to be an eyesore running through the town. Now, with its grass-covered landscaped banks, attractive trees, and shrubbery, Shamokin Creek lends a certain charm to the local scene. Another valuable accomplishment, by means of WPA labor, was the vital fire retardation project in the borough school system. This involved the construction of fire walls in the halls of each school building, thus providing additional protection. Changes in the Business Community Through the years, the face of retail business in downtown Shamokin has been a slowly changing one. In one generation, for a variety of reasons, a number of well-established stores closed their doors. Some of these, which flourished in the '30s and later, were victims of general economic conditions and technological advances, as well as of changes in taste and shopping habits. Others ceased to operate for personal reasons, such as the death or retirement of the owner. With the demise of such stores came the birth of new ones. Buy this is another subject --- all part of the evolutionary rejuvenation process taking place on downtown streets --- which will be covered in another part of this volume. In addition to the mercantile establishments mentioned earlier, now gone from the scene were such well-remembered names as: Lewis, the Stationer; Puritan Confectionary; Swank, the Photographer; Peoples Clothing; Zurin, plumbing and heating supplies; the Edgewood Garage; Rhoads Furniture Co.; Earl K. Boyer, jeweler; and W. C. Hack & Sons, hardware. In other categories, such companies as Eisenhart Purity Milk Co., Erb & Zaring, and Peter Barr & Sons, went out of business. During the problem years of the '30s, the community once again proved its resiliency and resourcefulness; its ability to cope with difficult situations. Life went on, quite optimistically, as one could see from various news items of happenings in and around town will attest. In fact, there were many indications that conditions, in general, were improving. 1938 -- Educational Activities In the late fall of 1938, area mines continued to be a source of educational interest. From Philadelphia, forty Temple University students, who were studying the subject of anthracite coal, came to Shamokin to inspect the Cameron Colliery. The monthly meeting of the Shamokin School Board, on October 9th, was marked by routine business discussions relating to back taxes. Also under consideration were plans for a proposed new school building which would front on Lincoln Street. Eventually, almost twenty years later, these plans became a reality, with the construction of the present Shamokin Middle School Annex. Students of public and Parochial schools were doing their best to create a winning slogan for Shamokin's upcoming Diamond Jubilee celebration. Later, a committee of judges would have to choose from the several hundred slogan suggestions submitted by the students. On October 11th, an interesting program marked the 270th regular monthly meeting of the Shamokin Cecelian Club. Presentation of the club's history was the highlight of the meeting. On October 21st, the Shamokin Cooperative Concert Association completed plans for its program of entertainment, which was to be presented during the winter months. Entertainers were to include Charles Hackett, Hilda Burke, and Dorothy Crawford, among others. Adding to the WPA construction program already at work in the community were several new projects of an instructional nature. Adults in the greater Shamokin area would soon have an opportunity to go back to school. Classes in adult education were being organized under the direction of the Division of Education and Recreation of the WPA. The classes would be sponsored by the Shamokin Borough School District. Also, plans were announced for the inauguration of a Safe Driving School, to be sponsored by a local executive council in cooperation with the Educational and Recreational Division of the WPA and the Pennsylvania State Police. This was the forerunner of the safe driving program for high school students which has proved so valuable. Mining Problems Employees of the Philadelphia and Reading Coal and Iron Company had been dismissed from company payrolls after several collieries were abandoned. They were now seeking returns of sums paid monthly into the company's beneficial fund while employed. A week later, in another situation involving this company, employees blasted shut a bootleg hole operating near Potts Colliery in Locust Dale. Operation of this mine provided the basis for injunction proceedings. About the same time, several regional collieries were suffering from high water and several others were forced to suspend operations due to torrential rains and the melting of a 14-inch snow on surrounding mountains. 1938 -- Christmastime Members and friends of the West End Fire Company participated in a festive celebration of the company's fiftieth anniversary. On December 7th, the first in a round of activities marking fifty years of service to the community was held at Edgewood Park. A vaudeville show was staged there as the initial feature of the entertainment program. For the past ten years, the two municipal comfort stations had been subject to conjecture. Now, during a monthly meeting of local lawmakers, these two buildings were designated as the borough council's "Christmas present" to the community. As was the Yuletide custom, various business and industrial firms were playing host to their employees at Christmas parties. Among the most elaborate of these was a dinner held by Lark Hosiery Mills, Inc. Manufacturing plant. Employees and their husbands and wives were entertained during a dinner served in the ballroom of the local American Legion building. The community's under privileged children came in for some welcome Christmas cheer when the Salvation Army, in their usually generous fashion, held a party for the youngsters at their headquarters at Market and Pine Streets. A brief program was presented that featured a visit from Santa Claus, who distributed gifts to all. Adding to the gay holiday spirit around the town were countless home-comers who had traveled from near and far to be with their families and friends for Christmas. Railroads and bus companies found their facilities taxed as crowds of holiday travelers sought transportation to the area. Ultimately, it was necessary to put extra buses into operation. During the winter of 1938, a plan to provide ice skating for hundreds of young people at various locations in the community was unanimously approved during a meeting of the Borough council in City Hall. With a number of streets closed off for evening coasting, there was an abundance of facilities for the popular sport. Coasting, during the winter of 1938-39, was the best in a number of years and hundreds of people, old and young alike, took to their sleds, toboggans, and bobsleds. It was not a strange sight, either, to see a number of skiers taking to the local snow-covered hills. When Coasting was King of Winter Sports No history of the twin communities would be complete without some reminiscences of the days when coasting was king of the winter sports. Practically every child had a sled then; its size being a matter of pride and social prestige. Youngsters who rated the highest with their friends were those having the large Flexible Fliers. Others had to be content with the smaller-model Flexies or less popular make sleds. The most impressive of all were the boys who owned bobsleds. Many a father became a hero to his son bu constructing one of these coasting "giants," which could accommodate as many as twelve or more riders. As in the sled social circle, the bigger the bobsled the greater the owner's status and popularity. Being chosen to share a spectacular ride on one of the big "bobs" was a great honor. There were many favored coasting areas but perhaps the most exciting course was the one that ran from Bunker Hill all the way down to Sixth Street. Roaring down Sunbury Street on a bobsled at a speed of 70 mph from a starting point in a small grove of trees near the brow of Bunker Hill provided a never-to-be-forgotten thrill to the more daring youths of past years.. Steep hillsides offered excellent opportunities for enjoying this exhilarating winter sport. Coasters in the western section of town started their sleds at the top of the steep grade on West Pine Street in Coal Township. They shot down Pine Street with racing speed that could scarcely be checked on the east side of Market Street, the end of the ride. Chestnut and Arch Streets also provided ample grade for coasting with the added challenge of crossing Market Street without incident. But it was Bunker Hill that reigned supreme in providing lightening speed and thrilling adventure. Sturdy bobsleds of solid oak were built by various groups, resulting in intense rivalries as to which "bob" could travel the speediest and cover the greatest distance. As a safety measure, and because most of the fast coasting was done during evening hours, outposts were placed at street intersections to warn pedestrian and vehicular traffic of the swift approach of a roaring bobsled loaded with its human freight. One of the most famous sleds of past years was that of the Liberty Hose Company, which carried 24 riders and had a large fire gong mounted on the front to signal its approach. A heavily loaded sled would attain its greatest speed between Shamokin and Liberty Streets and her the "Liberty' was clocked at 70 mph, something of a record. Bobsledding was also a tremendously popular spectator sport. Local demonstrations of daring downhill speed invariably drew a crowd of spectators who marveled at the sight from a safe place on the pavement. Omicron's New Year's Eve Dance A large crowd of dance lovers, ushering in the new year of 1939, attended the thirty-second annual Omicron formal cabaret dance in the gaily decorated ballroom of the American Legion building. Music was provided by Dan Gregory's broadcasting and recording orchestra. 1939 -- On the Mining Scene In early January, there came the first definite information on plans to lease a portion of the former Excelsior Colliery. About ten days later, the first break between miners of the St. Nicholas and Locust Summit breaker districts came when the miners at the St. Nicholas area reported for work while those from Locust Summit remained idle. Meanwhile, there were also difficulties at the Bear Valley Colliery. Damage to the colliery's workings by independent miners was revealed in an injunction issued by Judge Cummings, restraining the men from continuing activities until after a formal hearing. Good news to everyone in the greater Shamokin area was the fact that nearly all active collieries in the region were operating in order to meet mounting increases in coal orders from various markets. New York and the upper New England states led in the demand for rush shipments of coal. Peerless Minstrel Shows This was always a great town for minstrel shows, featuring local talent. On January 14th, the second annual Peerless Minstrel Show was presented in the Coal Township High School auditorium. The production was received enthusiastically by a large audience. Shamokin, Pennsylvania, 1864-1989 41 60 Shamokin, Pennsylvania, 1864-1989 Shamokin, Pennsylvania, 1864-1989 59