Mar 19, 2016 2 min read

The rich history of the Mon Valley will be showcased in the Manderino Library at California University of Pennsylvania when faculty, students, local libraries and historical societies participate in “Voices of the Mon Valley: Oral History and Local Resources.”

The opening reception will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, and the historical materials will be on display through April 10. Dr. Lou Martin, assistant professor of history at Chatham University who specializes in Appalachian history and culture, will be guest speaker at the reception.

Through a grant from Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education, faculty from the departments of history, social work, sociology and the library were trained on various topics, such as gathering oral histories, paper storage and photo digitization. Students and about 20 people from area historical societies and local libraries also attended the training.

The exhibit will feature students’ projects, including the oral histories of Mon Valley ethnic groups. Uniontown Public Library, Donora Historical Society and Smog Museum, Greater Monessen Historical Society and California Area Historical Society will exhibit materials from their collections.

The exhibit can be viewed as follows: 5 to 7 p.m. Monday; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday; 3 to 5 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday; and 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday. The gallery will be closed March 25-28 and April 6.

Visitor parking is available in the Vulcan Garage, off Third Street near the campus entrance.