In 1768, settlers planned their return to Wyoming Valley, an area claimed by both Pennsylvania and Connecticut at that time.

Returning with them was Obadiah Gore Jr., a blacksmith who was aware of coal outcroppings and their potential.After experimenting at his shop near Pittston and Wilkes-Barre, Gore finally proved by forced draft that local stone coal attained very high, even heat - ideal for industrial use.Newspaper accounts and word of mouth spread the excitement of his discovery.The news ignited a spark that launched the anthracite mining and iron industries, and later the unique system of canals and railroads.Today, descendants of the pioneers proclaim: "We, the People of the Black Diamond, celebrate our quarter-millennial as a unique American region and heritage centered on anthracite coal mining and railroading."