Kristina Leiby Comm 115 October 26, 2010 Kristina Leiby

 Known as “Land of the Running Water”  Located in Eastern Schuylkill County  Intersects Routes 209 and 309  The Tamaqua Area includes the Tamaqua Borough, West Penn, Rush, Walker, and Schuylkill townships Kristina Leiby

 Tamaqua’s historic past begins with the coal mines located throughout the Tamaqua Area  The coal mines were a vital source in securing jobs for the residents  While the coal mining industry became more successful, the conditions for workers got worse which led to the rise of the Molly Maguires Kristina Leiby

 The Molly Maguires were a group of Irish Catholic coal miners who felt that the long hours, small pay, and hazardous conditions were unfair and bad for them  The Mollies were convinced that the only way to solve their problems was to overthrow the rich and wealthy mine owners through violence  The Mollies fought for a long time and eventually were caught, put on trial, and hanged  Many years after the Mollies, legislators pushed for laws to protects workers and their families Kristina Leiby

 Today, Tamaqua is in the process of cleaning and restoring the town into its original state  The town has received several grants which have helped to restore old buildings, fix sidewalks, and put up new street lights and sidewalk lamps  Tourists are invited to come marvel in historic Tamaqua Kristina Leiby

 Constructed in 1874  One of the town’s most famous landmarks  Stood idle throughout the 1980’s and late 1990’s  Was going to be demolished until the non-profit organization “Save Our Station (SOS)” raised $1.5 million to have it refurbished Kristina Leiby

 Inside the Tamaqua Railroad Station is a small restaurant that was also refurbished back to its original design from the 1800’s.  The waiters and waitresses even dress in outfits from that era in order to make the experience come alive Kristina Leiby

 Depot Square Park was built a few years ago and was funded by government grants and local businesses  The park is a popular spot for train station visitors and tourists Kristina Leiby

 The Tuscarora State Park is located right outside of Tamaqua  There are cabins available for camping, fire pits for roasting marshmallows, and tent sites if you prefer to sleep under the stars  There are many trails that are available for walking, running, or hiking  This park also includes Locust Lake which is a popular Summer swimming spot Kristina Leiby

 Founded in 1924 as a milk retail business by Morris Heisler  As products became more popular, a dairy bar was built in 1957  The dairy bar is still a family owned business and is operated by Morris’ nephew, Len Ostergaard  The dairy bar serves hot food, 40 flavors of ice creams which are still made from the original recipe, and offers a mini golf course for entertainment Kristina Leiby

 For more information please explore the following links: html html qua/ qua/ Kristina Leiby