Folklore and Coal Mining Songs of PA - Oehme Cultural Performance Series

Jay Smar will present an informative yet musical and historical program with original and documented songs of this region during the early 1900's, highlighting the everyday struggles and life of the European coal miner in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Jay's grandfather mined coal in Schuylkill and Carbon County, Pa for over 50 years. Songs sung by miners, recorded by folklorist/journalist, George Korson of Pottsville, Pa., are performed as well as songs about more contemporary issues such as “The Fires of Centralia” documenting the 50 year old coal fire that burns until this day Vocals are accompanied by guitar, claw-hammer banjo, and to emulate the mining musicians of this region, he sings, fiddles, and flat-foot clog-dances simultaneously to highlight the end of the program. (photos of this performed in a local coal mine are displayed) N.E. Pa coal books, chronicles, pay scales, photos and related coal mining articles are also displayed at each performance for public view. Online registration begins 10/10.