That Heisman?

When I told my Alabama-born, SEC-loving loving history professor (who delighted in looking down on “Yankee” college football) that John Heisman was from my Northwestern Pennsylvania town, he almost didn’t believe me. He certainly laughed at my willingness to trash talk right back to him, young freshman that I was. But yes, world, John Heisman is one of Titusville, Pennsylvania’s favorite sons!

So why don’t more people know that? It’s a long, complicated story, and if you can get your hands on my article in the Fall 2023 edition of the Titusville Alumni Association’s Alumni News, you’ll get a better sense of why Heisman and Titusville aren’t more synonymous. Everything from busy schedules, the devastating 1892 Titusville Fire & Flood, and the death of a dear brother come into play. 

Heisman’s story isn’t unique—in a multitude of ways, Northwestern Pennsylvania is deeply connected to the rest of the nation. As a historian and public history professional, it’s my goal to share those narratives far and wide. The people of our area need to know the stories of those who came before them, who overcame great challenges to succeed in following their dreams. Those stories are our stories.

Does your hometown have such a story? Do you want to share that tale with a wider audience? There are many ways to do so, from academic publications to social media posts to exhibits. Contact me for a free consultation on which strategy is best for your needs. Let’s celebrate our heritage, NWPA!