Overview

The Anthracite region is the most undeveloped and in many ways the most beautiful in the Corridor. Two mountain ranges converge here: the Appalachians and the Poconos. The area is known for spectacular views of long green valleys and wooded greens, and the backcountry is studded with ponds and wetlands left by the glacier. The sparse towns are small, and most are survivors of an economy dependent upon mining and resource transportation.

The region is where anthracite coal was taken from the ground, processed, and shipped south. The landscape is extreme and difficult to navigate.

Mining was pioneered by engineers from Europe, hired by American entrepeneurs and brought to the region to start the process. Initially, laborers were also brought to the region. Soon laborers arrived in waves, typically by ethnicity, to develop and work in the mines.

Anthracite, removed from the ground and broken into managable pieces, was packed into canal boats and shipped from the mountainous regions to cities in the south.

Outside Links

Northeastern PA Rail and Anthracite page
Mine Country
Northeast PA Convention and Visitor Bureau

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