Believe it or not, these two photographs show roughly the same area from different angles! Known as Hardscrabble at the time of its demolishment, the community ran from the 900 to 1300 Blocks of the east and west sides of the N. Front Street. First called Pottsvile"after one of its residents (Stacy Potts), the name briefly changed to New Philadelphia, before Ludwig Hartz dubbed the community Hartz-scrabble. Eventually, the name was modernized to Hardscrabble. The community was razzed after a length court battle in 1921, allowing for the creation of the Sunked Gardens. Pictured: Ditmans boat docks, view is looking from the river to shore. This is an enlargement made from a post card. Building in the back reads Motor Boats & Supplies. Taken between 1910 - 1915. Stereoptician Card with view of Hardscrabble. Seen are workmen with their boats on the river shore and a view of the Walnut Street Bridge in the background. (fb)

As we get ready to say goodbye to May (and hope for sunnier skies in June), it's worth pausing to reflect on the rich history of May traditions. In the early and mid-20th century, towns and schools throughout Dauphin County marked May 1st with Maypole dances, floral crowns, and performances by schoolchildren. Communities saw parks and school grounds transformed into colorful stages. Students practiced for weeks to wrap ribbons around poles in synchronized dances—a tradition with longstanding roots that was embraced here as a joyful sign of spring. While today May Day looks quite different, with schools and communities celebrating "May Fair" throughout the month, the community spirit lives on. Pictured here are various May Day celebrations. The last picture, donated by Lois Herr, was taken at Woodward Elementary in Harrisburg and shows family members posing with the May Queen. (fb)