A Pennsylvania Posthistory

This is the first book about how the Pennsylvania anthracite story is told in the postindustrial age, and it places this discourse in the broader context of environmental and socioeconomic change. It is a work of regional history that is scholarly in tone yet written in a style accessible to the general reader. It explores the various ways in which anthracite history has been represented and remembered since 1960, the chosen date for the start of the “posthistorical” era coinciding approximately with the Knox mine disaster (1959) and the beginning of the Centralia mine fire (1962-), two cataclysmic and fateful events that symbolize the beginning of the end for widescale deep anthracite mining in northeastern Pennsylvania.

An original work of historical analysis, the book cannot be compared directly to others in the field, since it is believed to be the only one of its kind. Though much anthracite historiography and related cultural activity exists, this book offers a comprehensive overview of the field.  The purpose is to draw together the multifarious strands that make up the fabric of anthracite history in the present day. It is aimed a general audience interested in the subject but not necessarily in a specialized way. Moreover, the author shares his passionate interest in the subject. 

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING:

Elegantly written and meticulously researched, Telling of the Anthracite will quickly become the preeminent source for those interested in learning how people have imagined and represented the Anthracite Region. Mosley’s work will be required reading for anyone interested in the anthracite coal regions of northeastern Pennsylvania.  Bill Conlogue, Marywood University.

Prof. Philip Mosley has written a most valuable book aimed at anthracite history enthusiasts, both in the general public and in the professional community.  The volume stands as a guide to anthracite-related sites and resources, a critical review of “Telling Anthracite’s Story,” and a call to preserve the local history and culture.  After a long period of relative neglect, interest in hard coal has been growing and Prof. Mosley’s thorough and well-researched book will fortify that interest while adding a great deal to our knowledge.  It is a monumental work that will be read, re-read, debated, and enjoyed for years to come.  Robert Wolensky, University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point.

Telling of the Anthracite: A Pennsylvania Posthistory is impeccable scholarship, relating the story of Pennsylvania’s anthracite coal human history and heritage. It’s a chronology intertwining life, society, culture, economy, ethnicity, religious fervor, traditions and customs. The text is coupled with cinematic development, replete with copious references to literature—fiction, non-fiction, poetry---, art, music, drama/theatre, and other cultural initiatives. The narrative flows seamlessly; the vocabulary and phraseology are superb. The many references and citations amplify and confirm the author’s statements and conclusions. The work is a credit to Professor Mosley’s academic and scholarly integrity.  Richard Fitzsimmons, Penn State University.

by Philip Mosley
Page Count: 250
Trim Size: 6 x 9
Publish Date: January 3, 2023
Imprint: Oxford Southern
Genre: Historiography