PBS is currently broadcasting a program titled “History Detectives.”  Each hour finds the “detectives” seeking out information in an effort to solve a mystery or determine the validity of a story, or the history of an artifact or site.  While each episode tends to gloss over some aspects of the search due to time constraints, it does give a general introduction to seeking out historical facts and information.

MVHS staff members become history detectives on a regular basis in an effort to adequately interpret the Valley’s past.  One of our most perplexing “mysteries” is associated with a book of seventeen b x w movie stills entitled “Vulcans of the Mahoning.” 

James L. Wick, Jr., past president of MVHS began researching the volume prior to his death in 1972.  He determined that the stills were from a film shot in the Mahoning Valley between 1916-1917 based on visual clues within the photographs, and research on the local residents who appear.  Two were shot here on the back patio of the Arms’ residence, one was taken on the steps of St. Elizabeth Hospital, others were taken in Mill Creek Park.

Our research has led us to believe that the film from which the stills were made was produced by a touring company that specialized in local productions, with a prepared script, casting local residents as the actors.  Among those who appear are:  John A. Logan III, Ysabelle Bonnell, Mary Bonnell Young, Henry Heedy, R. Percy Young (who died in 1917), J. Barker Smith, Mr. & Mrs. Fred Orr, Julia Garlick Bonnell, John Tod, Myron C. Wick II, Thomas McDonald, Jim Tyrie, Phil Schaff, Edith Kauffman, Mr. & Mrs. James A. Campbell, Mrs. Robert Bentley, Paul Wick, Walter Kauffman, Emily Arms, Elizabeth Robinson, Caroline Wick, Robert Bentley, and Almira Arms.

MVHS is interested in locating a copy of the original “Vulcans of the Mahoning” film.  It was probably shown in the area after its completion to organizations, clubs, or private groups.  If anyone knows of a copy that we can duplicate, or has additional information about our very own “history’s mystery” please contact MVHS.