Jobn N. Hoffman 
Nee GT: 
In the Lehigh Valley 
of Pennsylvania 1820-45 
This monograph presents the historical and technological de- 
velopments of the anthracite industry in the Lehigh region of 
Pennsylvania from 1820 to 1845. The first constructive effort to 
develop this region began in 1818 with the enactment of a law by 
the Legislature of Pennsylvania granting “unlimited powers” to 
three individuals to improve the navigation of the Lehigh River. 
Regular shipments of anthracite from the Lehigh region began im 
1820. 
The development of the industry during this period was 
achieved through the combined efforts of the Lehigh Coal and 
Navigation Company and its former com panies, who operated the 
only navigation facility from the region and engaged in mining 
operations. During the first 25 years of the industry, 17 additional 
companies were chartered by the Pennsylvania Legislature to take 
advantage of the navigational improvements constructed on the 
Lehigh River. These companies were authorized to engage in 
mining and railroad operations, but none was given “unlimited 
powers.” 
Large amounts of capital were required to develop the coal- 
bearing properties and to bring the coal to market, with most of 
the money being invested in the construction of transportation 
facilities. Approximately $12.2 million was invested by the various 
companies to develop this industry during the period 1820 to 1845. 
Tur AutHor: John N. Hoffman 1s associate curator, division 
of manufactures and heavy industries, in the Smithsonian Insti 
tution’s Museum of History and Technology. 
PAPER 72: ANTHRACITE IN THE LEHIGH VALLEY 91 
