Susquehanna National Heritage Area has announced a new exhibition and a related lecture, which will provide information about how the coal industry changed both the Susquehanna River and the lives of those who lived on the riverbanks.

Lynn Smoker, the collector and historian behind Columbia Crossing River Trails Center's "Ice Harvesting" and "Hunting and Fishing" exhibits, has created a new exhibition that tells the story of anthracite coal on the Susquehanna River. Visitors are invited to view Smoker's vast collection of tools, art, photographs and more. The exhibit will be on display at Columbia Crossing, 41 Walnut St., Columbia, through March 2024 and is free to the public. Columbia Crossing is open on Tuesdays through Sundays. Visit http://www.susqnha.org for seasonal hours.

In addition, Smoker will offer a related lecture on Wednesday, July 26, at 6:30 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. Tickets can be purchased at http://www.susqnha.org/events or by calling 717-449-5607.

Anthracite coal was discovered in massive quantities across the northern branch of the Susquehanna River, and the region was heavily mined in the 19th century and early 20th century. Canal boats filled with coal jammed the river at Columbia. The anthracite coal was essential to the nearby pig iron furnaces but was also shipped all over the country. The anthracite coal industry changed the Pennsylvania economy and environment.

For more information, contact Sophia Vayansky, program coordinator, at SVayansky@SusqNHA.org or 717-449-5607.