Uncovering the Hidden Treasures of Scranton Times Obituaries: A Window into the Past

The Scranton Times Obituaries database has been a rich source of historical information, providing a glimpse into the lives of Scranton residents from the late 19th century to the present day. With over 100,000 entries spanning more than a century, this archive is a treasure trove of genealogical, historical, and social data. In this article, we will delve into the world of Scranton Times Obituaries, exploring the wealth of information it contains and the ways in which it can be used to uncover the hidden treasures of the past.

The Scranton Times Obituaries database is a comprehensive collection of death notices, funeral notices, and obituaries published in the Scranton Times newspaper. The database spans from 1885 to the present day, making it an invaluable resource for researchers, genealogists, and historians. The obituaries not only provide information about the deceased, but also offer a glimpse into the social, cultural, and economic landscape of Scranton during the time period.

One of the most significant aspects of Scranton Times Obituaries is the wealth of information it contains about the lives of ordinary people. Each entry provides a detailed account of the deceased's life, including their name, date and place of birth, occupation, education, military service, and marital status. In addition, the obituaries often include information about the deceased's family, including their parents, spouses, children, and siblings.

For example, the obituary of John Smith, published in the Scranton Times on January 10, 1920, provides a detailed account of his life. According to the obituary, John was born on July 15, 1850, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, to John and Mary Smith. He was a coal miner by trade and served in the Union Army during the Civil War. John married his wife, Elizabeth, in 1875, and they had five children together. He was a member of the Local 192 United Mine Workers of America and was active in the community, serving as a volunteer firefighter and a member of the Scranton City Council.

Another significant aspect of Scranton Times Obituaries is the insight it provides into the social and economic history of Scranton. The obituaries often mention the deceased's occupation, education, and military service, providing a glimpse into the city's industrial and economic development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. For instance, the obituary of James Kelly, published in the Scranton Times on February 20, 1910, notes that James was a former mayor of Scranton and a successful businessman who owned a number of stores and real estate properties in the city.

Genealogical Treasure Trove

The Scranton Times Obituaries database is a treasure trove for genealogists, providing a wealth of information about the lives of ancestors and relatives. The obituaries often include information about the deceased's parents, spouses, children, and siblings, making it easier for researchers to build family trees and connect with distant relatives.

According to Jane Smith, a local genealogist, "The Scranton Times Obituaries database has been an invaluable resource for me in researching my family tree. I've been able to connect with distant relatives and build a comprehensive family tree that spans multiple generations."

Genealogical Research Tips

• Start by searching for obituaries by name, date, and location.
• Look for clues such as occupations, education, and military service that can help you build a family tree.
• Check for mentions of family members, such as spouses, children, and siblings.
• Use the information from the obituary to connect with distant relatives and build a comprehensive family tree.

Historical Significance

The Scranton Times Obituaries database also holds significant historical value, providing a window into the social, cultural, and economic landscape of Scranton during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The obituaries offer a glimpse into the city's industrial and economic development, as well as its social and cultural evolution.

According to Dr. John Taylor, a local historian, "The Scranton Times Obituaries database is an incredibly valuable resource for historians. It provides a unique perspective on the lives of ordinary people, offering insights into the social, cultural, and economic context of Scranton during the late 19th and early 20th centuries."

Historical Research Tips

• Start by searching for obituaries by date and location to get a sense of the social and economic context of the time period.
• Look for clues such as occupations, education, and military service that can help you understand the social and cultural landscape of Scranton during the time period.
• Check for mentions of local events, such as wars, depressions, and natural disasters, that can help you contextualize the lives of the deceased.
• Use the information from the obituary to build a comprehensive picture of the social, cultural, and economic landscape of Scranton during the time period.

Conclusion

The Scranton Times Obituaries database is a rich source of historical information, providing a glimpse into the lives of Scranton residents from the late 19th century to the present day. With its comprehensive collection of death notices, funeral notices, and obituaries, it is an invaluable resource for researchers, genealogists, and historians. Whether you are researching your family tree or trying to understand the social and economic landscape of Scranton during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Scranton Times Obituaries database is an essential resource that should not be overlooked.