Highland Histories Mysteries

In this episode, we talk to Jennifer Sopko, historian and author on the history of Idlewild Park.

Idlewild is one of the highlight destinations in the Laurel Highlands, and Jen has dedicated love, time, and energy into preserving the history of this incredible amusement park. We were honored to talk to her and learn all about the history and stories behind Idlewild, from its humble beginnings to its current, beloved status as a local treasure for generations of families.

Today's topic is a historian's favorite: the mysterious, debated, and significant incident in young George Washington's military career, the "Friendly Fire Incident." Fort Ligonier's Director of Education, Matt Gault, takes us back to the footsteps of a young George Washington in today's episode.

In 2023, Westmoreland County is celebrating 250 years. We were fascinated to talk to Matt Gault, Director of Education at Fort Ligonier, about one of Westmoreland County's most iconic figures, Arthur St. Clair. As you will hear in our conversation with Matt, Arthur St. Clair was what some could consider, a "Forgotten Founding Father." Who was he, really? And what kind of legacy has St. Clair left behind for us to examine? Who is the human behind the legend?

Rob Pratte of KDKA Radio interviews Dawn Lamuth of Discover Westmoreland and GO Laurel Highlands, Patrick Bochy of West Overton Village Museums and Matt Gault of Fort Ligonier about the St. Clair's Spirits: A Tasting Collaboration. They talk about all the events happening for the Westmoreland County 250th Anniversary including the 260th Re-enactment of the Battle of Bushy Run, the creation of the "Go, Discover! Westmoreland" children's book, the 250 Monarch Butterfly Waystations goal and the Westmoreland Museum of American Art's Block Party.

Dawn also talks about GO Laurel Highlands activation booth at Steelers Training Camp at St. Vincent College, the GO Laurel Highlands Pour Tour, and new lodging & dining options in the outdoor adventure areas nearby. Dawn is the Director of Cultural and Community Connections at GO Laurel Highlands.

Patrick Bochy is the Co-Executive Director at West Overton Village Museums and Matt Gault is the Director of Education at Fort Ligonier.

In this episode, we talk to Bob Stutzman and Jennifer Sopko from the Ligonier Valley Rail Road Association. We learn about the fascinating history of the Ligonier Valley Rail Road, and we also discuss one of the rail line's most infamous disasters in 1912 and a young woman who survived it all, named Bessie Hoon.

In this episode, we are investigating the intruiging history of young George Washington's life during his time in the present-day Laurel Highlands. We hear about how his young life inspired a local show, entitled Rivers of Destiny. Special thanks to Tony Marino for his expertise.

In this debut episode, we are investigating the rich lore surrounding the Saint Vincent College campus, its history, and the people who built the organization into what it is today. Located in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, in the beautiful Laurel Highlands. Special thanks to Father Brian Boosel, O.S.B., for his expertise.