Everyone living here should visit Eckley Miners’ Village. This is a living history museum focusing on the anthracite coal miner and his family. It preserves a way of life which dominated the anthracite coal region for over 150 years.

Nestled just beyond the town of Freeland and beside the village of Jeddo, Eckley Miners’ Village represents our very heritage. Mining was the source of income that beckoned Europeans to come to this country. As the immigrants came, they needed a place to live. Coal barons lured them by building patch towns which sprouted up alongside coal production sites. These towns were not incorporated nor did they have any elected officials, they were owned by the coal company.

The town is named after Eckley B. Coxe. In the 1860’s, he took over the mining from its then current owners and he opened a new slope and built a new breaker. He is also credited with inventing and patenting over fifty improvements and inventions in the mining industry. He helped develop the town and make it better.

Strip mining of the anthracite coal in Eckley begin in the 1890’s. The population diminished as the coal was depleted. By 1920, there were less than 600 residents. A steady decline continued from there, but the town itself was never fully abandoned.

The turning point came in 1968 when Hollywood rented the entire town to film “The Molly Maguires” starring Sean Connery and Richard Harris. They selected Eckley because of its well-preserved condition. They resurrected a breaker, general store and mule barn, all of which remain today giving the entire town its appearance of full authenticity. After filming, in 1971, the state of Pennsylvania recognized the asset it had to provide history, education and tourism.

“The Eckley Players” staff the Village. They dress in period costume and serve as tour guides. Visitors learn about the lives of the miners. The demonstrations providing insight into their lives include furnished homes, kitchens, gardens, churches and the company store.

This weekend featured a special event: Civil War encampment. Visitors were treated to witness the troop inspections, drillings and firing demonstrations. Like The Eckley Players, all characters were in full and authentic costume. Special presentations included Civil War Muster Rolls Exhibit, Polish Heritage Exhibit, and Sewing & Quilt Exhibits. Walking around the village, visitors were treated to the sounds of the time with The Breaker Boys providing their coal mining and period music. The High Wheelers rode about with their 19th Century High Wheel Bicycles.

The museum is particularly noteworthy. It provides information and exhibits about the immigrants of the time, the history of our area, the lives of the miners and their families and the development of patch towns. In all parts of our area, houses just like these still stand.

I have never been to Eckley Village before and wanted to go for some time. I actually thought it would be a longer drive, but it ended up being a 35 minute trip from Wilkes-Barre. Not even far enough for the radio reception of Rock 107 to fail. (Although Heart’s “Barracuda” started blending in spots with a soprano gospel tune at 106.9 on my radio dial!).

When you visit, I shall wish you a clear sunny day because this is one stunning drive offering complete views of the Wyoming Valley from I81 South. On the way back, you will be treated to a dramatic view of the Conyngham Valley.

The town is remarkable and peaceful. It’s educational and enjoyable. It’s a tribute to the great strength of who we are. It’s well worth your time.