"The Coal Patch"

This is a story about a "coal patch" called "Orient" between Brownsville and Uniontown, PA. It describes my friend, Dale Richard Shazer, and how, at almost eighty years of age he

This is a story about a "coal patch" called "Orient" between Brownsville and Uniontown, PA.  It describes my friend, Dale Richard Shazer, and how, at almost eighty years of age he fulfilled his lifelong dream to tell the story of growing up during the depression in this coal-mining town.

Each coal mine built, for its workers, a cluster of houses and a company store, these were called "patches" and there were many such settlements in Pennsylvania.

Through the eyes of a young boy, Dale keenly uses humor and pathos to tell of the poverty and struggle to survive and he recounts the escapades and calamities that he, his dog and best friend underwent while they tried to make sense of their lives in the midst of destitution.

This book defines who the author is today and is as witty as it is moving.  For anyone who has endured hardships, it is entertaining and introspective.  Dale hopes this will encourage other senior citizens to never give up on their dreams and that this time in history will not be forgotten.

"The Coal Patch" is available at Amazon.com

Upload Your Own Stories, Photos and Videos

Every week, American Profile magazine brings you stories that celebrate the people and places that make America great. Now we want to hear your stories and see your photos, videos and even audio.

 Start Uploading Now!

 

Discuss this Article