Darr Mine Disaster WQED Film Screening

Discover Christmas and holiday traditions spanning across history and culture. Over time, various customs were borrowed or melded with the practices of others, and by the latter part of the 19th century, an American tradition of Christmas began to emerge that united various cultural customs. Our site will reflect the German, English, Scots-Irish, and American heritage of our region through festive decorations, storytelling, and historic activities.

While exploring our open-air site, you’ll learn about different Yuletide traditions and enjoy the historical ambience of Hanna’s Town. Kids–and adults–are welcome to try their hand at different holiday crafts and activities such as making scented orange pomander balls, holiday tin-punch patterns, pinecone ornaments, and more. Our Log Cabins, Exhibit Gallery, Museum Shop, and Steel House will be open throughout the day. We will also have a special guest appearance from Father Christmas himself!

Further event updates will be posted soon. Check back in with us!

This event is free and open to the public. Donations of any amount are appreciated.

Join the Westmoreland Historical Society and representatives from the Rostraver Township Historical Society for a screening of WQED’s documentary film on the Darr Mine Disaster of December 19, 1907. The Darr Mine in Rostraver Township, Westmoreland County, exploded, killing 239 men and boys. It remains the worst mining disasters in Pennsylvania history.

This WQED documentary explores this tragic event in our local history with rare archival images and compelling interviews, including the story of what some call a religious miracle–that prevented the tragedy from being much worse.

$10 for members | $12 for non-members

Please call to reserve your seat! 724.836.1800 x210.