While the archived material at the Center holds a wealth of information concerning the coal and coke industry, we do not have any individual personal records of coal miners, coke workers or related employees. It is unfortunate that these early types of records were not saved or have yet to be found. Therefore, the Center cannot field specific questions concerning a location of or years of employment for an individual.

If you have an inquiry related to a particular mine, it is important that you include all the relevant information known to you. For example, if your request concerns a mine owned and operated by the H.C. Frick Company, please be as specific as possible. In Fayette and Westmoreland Counties, there were 72 Frick holdings, therefore a "Frick" mine is not enough information. Also, please include the name of the county relative to your indicated community if possible, since both counties share common place names.

Submit Your Inquiry - Complete our on-line form, providing your question, your name, and your email address. Remember, if you are requesting information related to a specific mining or coke industry area, please provide as much detailed information as possible; this information will expedite our response to you. Our researchers will look into your inquiry. If you so desire, your question along with the associated response will be posted to the FAQ page of our web site.

Explore Our Frequently Asked Questions Page
-After all, it has been said, "We are a Mine of Information"

Additionally we have a special Book of Remembrance in which the names of deceased family members or friends are inscribed. Memorial donations of less than $250.00 may be sent to the Coal and Coke Heritage Center. The checks should be made out to Penn State, but should note that the memorial is to be credited to the Center.

If you would like to make a memorial donation or a financial contribution to the Coal and Coke Heritage Center, please call us at 724.430.4158 or email at pxs47@psu.edu.

Are you, or someone you know, interested in sharing your own personal story by participating in an oral interview? Would you be willing to tell us about working in the coal and coke industry or growing up and living in a patch community? Maybe you worked in a related field such as blacksmithing, railroading, or working on the river. Every new interview adds another thread to the heritage tapestry of the Connellsville Coke Region. Both men and women, age 70 and older, willing to share their stories are invited to contact our oral historian, Mrs. Elaine Hunchuck DeFrank, at the Coal and Coke Heritage Center or e-mail her at ehd103@psu.edu