Preserving Our Heritage for Future Generations
The Steelworkers’ Archives was founded in 2001 with one goal: to make sure the voices of Bethlehem’s steelworkers are never forgotten.
As the Bethlehem Steel mills shut down, a group of community members, educators, and local institutions came together with a powerful idea—to document and preserve the personal stories of the men and women who built America’s industrial backbone. These stories didn’t belong in history books—they belonged to the families, friends, and future generations who would one day ask: “What was it like to work at the Steel?”
Steelworkers' Archives Our origin story
The project was launched in partnership with the Bethlehem Area Public Library, Moravian College, and Lehigh University. Local union leadership and steelworker retirees helped shape the direction of the Archives. In the early days, interviews took place at churches, senior centers, and community halls—anywhere steelworkers gathered to share memories.
What began as a small oral history project quickly grew into something much larger. Today, the Archives continues to collect interviews, photos, and memorabilia to ensure this rich history remains accessible and alive.
Our missionand structure
The Steelworkers’ Archives is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization governed by a Board of Directors and powered by volunteers. Our mission is simple, but urgent:
- Document Oral Histories — Preserve the voices of steelworkers through recorded interviews and storytelling.
- Educate the Public — Offer programs, tours, and exhibits that share the legacy of Bethlehem Steel.
- Strengthen Community — Create space for connection between generations and across cultures.
We believe in honoring steelworkers with dignity and accuracy, and in making their stories accessible to all.
Get Involved
Whether you’re a family member, former worker, student, or local resident—your connection to this history matters. You can support the Archives by:
Volunteering your time
Becoming a member
Making a donation
Leadership
Officers
- PresidentJoe Mayer
- Vice PresidentEric Quimby
- TreasurerJill Schennum
- Rec. SecretaryFrances Ferencin
-
TrusteesJohn Weiss
Bob Wilt
Earl Kurtz
Board of Directors
- Chairman of the BoardMike Dzwonczyk
- Fran Ferencin
- Tom Sedor
- Dennis Pearson
- Jill Schennum
- Joseph Mayer
- Edward A. Leskin
- Josh Daly
- Joe Straub
Committee Appointments
- Administration-
- MembershipJill Schennum
- Mission InterpretationJill Schennum
- Outreach-
-
WebmasterScott Krycia
Earl Kurtz
