The Northumberland Man

About the Book

This book begins with a description of conditions in Ireland at the time of the potato famine, during which immigrant John McFarland left for a new beginning in a new world. His journey began in 1847 with a diary notation announcing his landing in Philadelphia and his beginning to live the American dream by starting a grocery business in Philadelphia. He eventually migrated to Northumberland, Pennsylvania, which is in heart of the anthracite coal region of Central Pennsylvania. This is a firsthand account of life in the middle of the nineteenth century. McFarland kept daily accounts of his experiences and travels while negotiating coal contracts to buy and sell large quantities of coal. Many of his writings have been reproduced and put into this book. An example, Monday, February 27, 1865. “Spent the day in Philadelphia. Left there by 8:30 p.m. train for home. Accident on the Pennsylvania Railroad. Sleeping car which I was in burned up. Had a narrow escape. One mile from Lancaster.” These recordings cover the period of 1859 until 1870. They contain dealings with mine owners, railroaders, wheelers, and dealers of the day as well as canal contracts. McFarland also recorded family life, day-to-day living, and many interesting anecdotes. This is a fascinating glimpse into the past, recorded by the man who lived it.

About the Author

Barry McFarland was born in Manheim, Pennsylvania. and educated in the Manheim public schools. He graduated from Millersville University with a master’s degree in technology education. He taught in the public school sector for thirty years, retired, and returned to teaching at the college level at York College of Pennsylvania. After many years of public service, he has found time to pursue a subject that has always piqued his interest, American history. This book has renewed that interest.