The PA Historical and Museum Commission Monday announced it has approved 18 new state historical markers recognizing the people, places and events that have affected the lives of Pennsylvanians over the centuries.

The markers include—

-- Huber Coal Breaker, Luzerne County: Constructed in the 1930s by the Glen Alden Coal Company, this breaker processed nearly 7,000 tons of coal daily through the 1970s.  To distinguish its product, the company sprayed color on its anthracite, creating "blue coal." It was one of the first to utilize Menzies cones to separate coal and was the first to use aerial disposal of waste by-products.  Click Here to learn more about its history.

-- Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, Philadelphia: Established in 1899, the Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse claims to be one of the first dedicated play spaces for children in the nation.  Richard and Sarah Smith were inspired by the American Playground Movement which began in the mid-1880s. The site is unique in that it has always operated as a private institution on public land, and has been racially and economically integrated - free and open to all.  Click Here to learn more about its history.

Click Here for a list of all 18 historic markers approved Monday.

For more information on the more than 2,000 historic markers and to nominate a person or event to be recognized, visit the PHMC’s PA Historical Marker Program webpage.

NewsClip:

DEP Seeks Sanctions Against Former Huber Coal Breaker Owner

[Posted: April 4, 2017]

4/10/2017