History of Blacks at Hopewell

Mt. Frisby AME Church, located near Hopewell Furnace,
at the former African-American community of Six Penny.

Blogger's Note: The following is from Laura Catalano at the Schuylkill River National Heritage Area, whose offices are here in Pottstown. We present it here in honor of Black History Month, which begins tomorrow.

For more than a century, African Americans lived and worked at Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site alongside their white counterparts.

Author Frances Delmar will discuss what their lives were like at a lecture and book signing scheduled for 7-9 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 12 at the Schuylkill River Heritage Area offices, located at 140 College Dr., Pottstown.

Delmar is the National Park Service Chief of Education and Interpretation at Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site and author of the new book The African American Experience at Hopewell Furnace.

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

Because little is known or written about the African Americans who lived and worked at Hopewell from 1771 to 1883, Delmar researched the book by poring through daybooks, ledgers and other park records for information.

Her new book provides a glimpse into how these men and women came to Hopewell Village, earned their wages, interacted and were treated by the other village inhabitants.

The slim 24-page book is attractively illustrated with photographs of re-enactors portraying 18th and 19th century African Americans on Hopewell’s grounds. It will be available for sale for $5.95 after the lecture.

There is no cost for this event, but space is limited so call 484-945-0200, or email ckott@schuylkillriver.org to reserve a seat.