A Town Born of Legacy
Girardville’s story begins with Philadelphia philanthropist Stephen Girard, who in 1830 purchased land from the heirs of Pennsylvania founder William Penn. Though he died in 1831 and never visited, the town founded in his name began with the construction of the Girard Mansion in 1832 and blossomed into a vibrant coal town over the coming decades.
The Rise of Coal and the Girard Colliery
The discovery of anthracite coal in 1853 transformed Girardville into a booming center of mining activity. The Girard Colliery, later known as the Hammond Breaker, opened in 1863 by Cornelius Garretson, would go on to ship over 4.5 million tons of coal before its closure in the 1920s. The colliery changed hands multiple times, playing a key role in powering America’s industrial growth and drawing thousands of immigrant workers to the region. (Photo Credit: Girardville Historical Society)
Labor Movements and the Molly Maguires
Girardville became a hotbed of early labor activism. “Black Jack” Kehoe, the town’s high constable and union advocate, was later linked to the Molly Maguires, a secret society of Irish miners fighting for workers’ rights. Though hanged in 1878, Kehoe received a posthumous pardon in 1979, thanks to the efforts of his great-grandson, Joseph Wayne, who continues to operate The Hibernian House—a living museum, local pub and inn. (Link to Hibernian House Website Below with full history and photos)
A Thriving Community Takes Root
By the time Girardville was incorporated in 1872, the population had grown to over 3,000. The town developed rapidly with schools, churches, railroads, businesses, gas stations and water services, and even its own opera house and newspaper. It was a cultural and economic hub of the anthracite coal region. (Photo Credit: Girardville Historical Society)
Notable People of Girardville
Girardville has been home to a number of remarkable figures:
- Dennis Cardinal Dougherty, Archbishop of Philadelphia
- Captain Jack Crawford, the “Poet Scout” of the American West
- Colonel Patrick H. Monaghan, Civil War Medal of Honor recipient
- Chuck Drulis, NFL player and coach who introduced the “safety blitz”
- Mary Boland, Hollywood actress
- Jimmy Gownley, author of Amelia Rules!
A Proud Irish-American Heritage
Girardville has long been a stronghold of Irish-American pride. Since the 1840s, Irish immigrants have shaped the community’s culture, faith, and workforce. The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, hosted by the Ancient Order of Hibernians, is a signature event that draws thousands of visitors every March.
Did You Know? Former President Bill Clinton joined the parade in 2008, drawing a crowd of over 30,000 people to the town.
Life in Girardville Today
Girardville’s heart still beats with pride. With a population of around 1,800, the town is known for its small-town charm, local traditions, and must-visit spots like:
- Tony’s Lunch – Home of the famous “screamer” https://www.facebook.com/groups/121686047845983/
- Centiole’s Pizza – A Coal Region favorite https://www.facebook.com/centiolespizza/
- The Hibernian House – A pub with a past https://www.hibernianhouse.com/
The spirit of hard work, family, and heritage continues to define Girardville, making it a special place to live, visit, and remember.
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