Frank L. Melega (1905-1997) born in Diamond, Indiana, moved with his family to West Brownsville, Pennsylvania in 1917. Melega’s father was employed with the Lilley Mine of the Valley Coal Company. This coal miner’s son was destined to become the most famous artist to depict the Southwestern Pennsylvania Coal and Coke Era. His paintings, sculptures, and drawings are in museum, corporate, and private collections throughout the United States.

At an early age, Melega was recognized as having artistic talent. The self-taught artist began his career working at various jobs including commercial art and sign lettering. By the age of twenty-three, Melega owned the Art Sign Shop located at the present site of the Brownsville Post Office on Cha … Displaying 750 of 2769 characters.