Local historian Paul J. Zuros weaves a rich narrative of the region, reliving these tales as only a local can. The Upper Ohio River runs along the border between West Virginia and Ohio, where the cities of Weirton and Steubenville face each other across the flowing water. The history of these two municipalities has been intertwined from their earliest days. Discover stories of the early pioneers on both sides of the river and what they learned about their Native American predecessors. Tales of bygone celebrations will entertain, and rumors of local haunts will chill readers to the bone. The stories of these industrial centers as well as their preindustrial past will intrigue and delight young and old.
Paul J. Zuros was born and raised in Weirton, West Virginia. His interest in local history started when he volunteered with Hancock County Museum in New Cumberland and then later with the Weirton Area Museum and Cultural Center. He graduated from Weir High School and went on to WVU to pursue a degree in history. Paul graduated from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh with a master's degree in public history. Over the years, Paul has worked with the John Heinz History Center, the Fort Pitt Museum, the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, the Craik-Patton House and the West Virginia Humanities Council. Currently, he is the executive director of Historic Fort Steuben in Steubenville, Ohio.