Environmental Heritage- 140th Avondale Mine Disaster Commemorations Set For September 6

The public is cordially invited to three free-of-charge historical preservation events on September 6 in Scranton and Plymouth Township that will commemorate the 140th anniversary of the Avondale mine disaster of September 6, 1869, anthracite’s most deadly mining disaster with 110 victims.

Several events are planned

Victims’ memorial program (colors, taps, memorial reflection, and speakers), plus the dedication of refurbished grave stones and the unveiling of a historical marker. 61 of the disaster’s 110 victims are buried at this cemetery, all of Welsh descent. Sponsored by the Washburn-Avondale Restoration Committee.

Avondale educational and cultural program with speakers, entertainment, literature display, and refreshments. Sponsored by the Anthracite Heritage Museum.

Avondale memorial program (memorial reflections, tributes, and speakers) on the site of the Avondale disaster, immediately followed by refreshments at the Plymouth Township Municipal Building. Sponsored by the Anthracite Living History Group, the Plymouth Historical Society, Eastern Pennsylvania Coalition for Abandoned Mine Reclamation and the Plymouth Township Planning Commission.

Visitors will be able to view and hear about the progress that has been made over the last year to construct three community gardens at the site, removal of graffiti, construction of a concrete platform for benches that will soon be secured at the site, wildlife habitat enhancements to the site with the addition of some bluebird boxes, and future plans to beautify the location.

Additional local financial support and community volunteers are needed to keep the project moving along steadily.

For more information contact EPCAMR at 570-371-3522 or Chester Kulesa at the Anthracite Heritage Museum at 570-570-963-4804 or visit the Anthracite Living History Group webpage.