The Local History class at Moshannon Valley High School is now in its third year and is a course offered to senior high students in place of American History or as an elective. The class ties in local settlement and the growth of the area in the Moshannon Valley School District to the themes often taught in U.S. History. Settlement of this area from the Native Americans, to the post Revolutionary War expeditions, to pre Civil War growth, to late 19th and 20th century expansion is covered and analyzed. The impact of the lumber and coal industry, immigration into the Moshannon Valley, the area's involvement with the Civil War, industry expansion, the world wars, and the Great Depression are major topics. Everything from old photos to county histories are used.
Cemeteries are historical landmarks and tell a lot about families and settlement.
We bring plenty of paper for tombstone rubbings. Some of the cemeteries are 150 years old. Students also interview elderly people in our area about growing up in a coal mining household, life during the Depression, World War II, etc. Some of the interviews are videotaped for use in class. A research project is required.