Join the Sharon Historical Society for a special evening commemorating the anniversary of the 1918 Armistice with the official release of The Great War in Sharon, Pennsylvania, the newest book by local historian and author Taylor Galaska, on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 6:00 pm at the Sharon City Building, 155 West Connelly Boulevard, Sharon, PA 16146.
The date was selected intentionally. On November 11, 1918, after more than four years of devastating conflict, the guns fell silent on the Western Front. The first Armistice Day marked the end of the Great War and became a day of remembrance for those who served and sacrificed. More than a century later, this program honors that legacy by exploring Sharon's own wartime experience.
Drawing upon extensive research, historic photographs, newspapers, and archival records, Galaska will examine how the First World War reshaped Sharon and the Shenango Valley. The lecture will trace the region's transformation from a thriving industrial community into an essential contributor to the Allied war effort, highlighting the roles of Sharon Steel, Carnegie Steel, and Savage Arms Company in wartime production. It will also explore the generosity of Frank and Julia Buhl, the patriotic efforts of local citizens through Liberty Loan campaigns and Red Cross work, the sacrifices of area servicemen, and the profound impact of the 1918 influenza pandemic on families at home.
More than a history of military service, The Great War in Sharon, Pennsylvania, published by the Sharon Historical Society through Shenango Heritage Press, tells the story of a community united by duty, resilience, and sacrifice during one of the defining events of the twentieth century.
This book represents more than two years of research, writing, and archival investigation, a project that began in February 2024 to uncover and preserve Sharon's remarkable Great War story.
This program is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Following the FREE lecture event on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 6:00 pm at the Sharon City Building, 155 West Connelly Boulevard, Sharon, PA 16146, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase signed copies of the newly released book and meet the author. A Q&A will also be at the end of the lecture program.
Join us as we commemorate Armistice Day by remembering the people, industries, and community spirit that carried Sharon through the Great War and ensured that their stories would not be forgotten.