A discovery and proclamation
Anthracite, or hard coal, has high carbon content and few impurities. It's so valuable that it's called a black diamond. DONALD R. SERFASS/SPECIAL TO THE TIMES NEWS
In 1768, settlers planned their return to Wyoming Valley, an area claimed by both Pennsylvania and Connecticut at that time.
Returning with them was Obadiah Gore Jr., a blacksmith who was aware of coal outcroppings and their potential.
After experimenting at his shop near Pittston and Wilkes-Barre, Gore finally proved by forced draft that local stone coal attained very high, even heat - ideal for industrial use.
Newspaper accounts and word of mouth spread the excitement of his discovery.
The news ignited a spark that launched the anthracite mining and iron industries, and later the unique system of canals and railroads.
Today, descendants of the pioneers proclaim: "We, the People of the Black Diamond, celebrate our quarter-millennial as a unique American region and heritage centered on anthracite coal mining and railroading."
