Historical Marker

Slate Industry

Main and Railroad Sts., across from Slatington Trailhead, Slatington · Slatington · Lehigh

Pennsylvania marker

Inscription

One of the largest slate-producing centers in the United States. Welsh slate entrepreneur William Roberts first sighted slate in 1844 near a local barn. He and other Welsh immigrants established and worked in numerous slate quarries in this region. Nearby quarries included "Big Franklin"( c.1852), the largest excavation in Slatington; and "Williams," known for its production of school slate.

These sites also contributed to the increase of slate roofing during the late 19th century.

Location

AddressMain and Railroad Sts., across from Slatington Trailhead, Slatington
CitySlatington
CountyLehigh

Sources


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