Kutztown University Students Film at Eckley Miners’ Village

UPDATE: Students from Kutztown University are currently filming a dramatic short at Eckley Miners’ Village, capturing the chilling tale of the 1868 murder of Centralia’s founder, Alexander Rea. This ambitious project, led by Professor Deryl Johnson, is unfolding NOW, with filming taking place just hours ago on October 24, 2025.

The film, featuring period costumes and authentic settings, aims to bring to life a dark chapter in Pennsylvania’s history as part of Johnson’s upcoming play, “Centralia: The Fire Below,” scheduled for live performances on September 17, 18, and 19, 2026. The historical backdrop of Eckley, with its dirt streets and weathered houses, provides a perfect setting for this evocative storytelling.

Currently, around 50 students are involved in both cast and crew roles, engaging in hands-on film production techniques. Student Kirsten Heim, dressed in 1860s attire, is seen digging in the garden while narrating the story of Rea’s grim fate and the ensuing trial against the convicted murderers, rumored to be affiliated with the infamous Molly Maguires.

This project isn’t just a film; it’s an immersive experience for the students. “Being on a real location is really cool,” said Will Brenner, a sound technician, reflecting the excitement of the day. The crew faced challenges, including adjusting for ambient sounds, showcasing the unpredictable nature of location shooting.

The film will also draw connections to a horror-themed short inspired by the same historical events, to be filmed next at the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine in Ashland. The engagement with local history is palpable, as students like Max Ford express hopes of discovering their family roots among the village’s overgrown cemetery.

Historically, Eckley holds significance as a filming location; it was the site of the 1968 movie about the Molly Maguires. Bode Morin, administrator for Eckley and the Anthracite Heritage Museum, confirmed that this is not the first film project at the site, indicating a growing trend of creative use of historical locations.

As filming continues, the team plans to capture one more scene outside the Catholic church, where a character representing Rev. Daniel Ignatus McDermott will be featured, tying the narrative back to the community’s rich yet turbulent past. Johnson, who has been planning this project for two years, aims to recreate the essence of Centralia’s community ties, even as they faced the devastating impacts of a long-burning mine fire.

This film not only tells a story of the past but also connects students to their heritage, fostering a deeper understanding of the events that shaped their community. Audiences will soon witness this unique blend of history and modern storytelling, making this project a vital piece of Pennsylvania’s cultural tapestry.

Stay tuned for more updates as this project unfolds and as Kutztown’s students continue to bring history to life through film.