Vince Hydro Publications

06/11/2025

As promised, the Nesquehoning Historical Society is pleased to announce Part II of Vince Hydro’s presentation on America’s First Roller Coaster. The presentation is entitled: “The Last Days of the Summit Hill and Mauch Chunk Switchback.”

Join us for either of two showings; doors open an hour before the presentation.

Monday, December 1, 2025 at 6:00 pm
And
Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 1:00 pm

Following his presentation, Hydro will be signing copies of his book: The Summit Hill and Mauch Chunk Switchback Railroad: America’s First Roller Coaster, as well as copies of his other books on local history.

The events will take place at the NHS Museum, 157 West Railroad Street, Corner of Ratcliff and Railroad Sts. in Nesquehoning. There is ample parking available in the large lot located next to the Museum, however, we have filled up the lot at recent events. Come early to get a good parking spot and seat in the Museum.

This event is open to the public free of charge, although donations to the Historical Society are always welcome.

01/09/2025

The Nesquehoning Historical Society is pleased to announce the start of its 2025 Presentation Series on local history.

Join us with local author and historian Vince Hydro for a new presentation entitled: “The Summit Hill & Mauch Chunk Switchback, America’s First Roller Coaster.”

There will be two showings; doors open an hour before the presentation.

Monday, September 29, 2025 at 6:00 pm
And
Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 1:00 pm

Following his presentation, Hydro will be signing copies of his book: The Summit Hill and Mauch Chunk Switchback Railroad: America’s First Roller Coaster, as well as copies of his other books on local history.

The events will take place at the NHS Museum, 157 West Railroad Street, Corner of Ratcliff and Railroad Sts. in Nesquehoning. There is ample parking available in the large lot located next to the Museum, however, we have filled up the lot at recent events. Come early to get a good parking spot and seat in the Museum.

This event is open to the public free of charge, although donations to the Historical Society are always welcome.

16/05/2025

On Saturday, May 24, 2025, St. Mark’s and St. John’s Episcopal Church in Jim Thorpe will kick off their 2025 Tour Season with a special event. Local historian and author Vince Hydro will sign copies of his latest book, The History of St. Mark’s and St. John’s Episcopal Church and Its Treasures. The event will take place from 12-2 pm in the church, located on Race Street in Jim Thorpe. All proceeds from the sale of this book go towards St. Mark’s and St. John’s Episcopal Church Restoration Fund.

The book dedication reads as follows:
“This book is lovingly dedicated to the memory of Rosamond Starr Heberling Dana. Baptized, raised, and married in St. Mark’s, Rosamond maintained her church membership all her life, establishing the longest membership in the history of St. Mark’s and St. John’s Church. Her love still resides within its walls.”

This quality hardbound book includes pictures by local photographers Tom Storm and Desha Utsick. Anne Giles, daughter of Rosamond Heberling Dana, first contacted Vince Hydro about writing the book, and coordinated review and editing of the manuscript by family members located across the United States. Anne’s brother George W. Dana handled book layout and publishing.

St. Mark’s and St. John’s Episcopal church is a Registered National Landmark and is a popular destination for visitors to Jim Thorpe. The structure was designed by renowned architect Richard Upjohn and completed in 1869. While many famous Mauch Chunk families supported this church, including ancestors of Rosamond Heberling Dana, it was the renowned Asa Packer who provided important early financing for both the original and the current church structure.

03/12/2024

The real story on Carbon County's Lost Village of Lausanne

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