Scranton Prohibition play to premiere at Lackawanna Historical Society
Considering the city’s current reputation, it may be difficult to imagine Scranton without booze, but history buffs will take locals back to that dark time next month.
On Sunday, Aug. 10, the Slocum Hollow Historians will present “Scranton Dry,” a short play about Prohibition-era Scranton at the Lackawanna Historical Society, announced in a press release earlier today.
The release included a description of the show, along with some historical background:
Join Reverend Silas C. Swallow and the Amen Sisters on the porch at the Catlin House and witness one of his well-known sermons on abstinence from all intoxicants. The good reverend, born near Clarks Summit, was a widely known prohibitionist and militant Methodist. Early in his life, Rev. Swallow championed the abolition of slavery and served as first lieutenant in Company E of the 18th regiment, Pennsylvania Emergency Volunteers during the Civil War.
The play, which begins at 2 p.m., will be presented on the porch of the Society’s headquarters at the Catlin House (232 Monroe Ave., Scranton), so attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs. It is free and open to the public.
Call the Lackawanna Historical Society at 570-344-3841 or e-mail lackawannahistory@gmail.com for more information.
