Why did John Oliver mention Erie, PA?
He referenced the story of General 'Mad' Anthony Wayne to illustrate a point about tariffs impacting a recycling plant project in Erie.
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Entertainment / TV
John Oliver Highlights Erie and Lancaster History on 'Last Week Tonight'
John Oliver's 'Last Week Tonight' recently shone a spotlight on some unexpected historical facts from Erie, Pennsylvania, and Lancaster County. The segment highlighted the peculiar story of General 'Mad' Anthony Wayne and a local history we...
Key Insights
- John Oliver mentioned Erie, PA, on 'Last Week Tonight,' referencing the story of General 'Mad' Anthony Wayne, whose body was boiled to separate flesh from bones for transport. Why this matters: This bizarre historical fact is now the main association many have with Erie.
- Uncharted Lancaster, a local history website, was featured for its story on Wayne. Why this matters: A small local organization received significant national exposure.
- A planned plastics recycling plant in Erie was canceled due to tariff-related building costs, further cementing the 'Mad' Anthony Wayne story as Erie's claim to fame on the show. Why this matters: Economic setbacks can sometimes amplify unusual historical narratives.
In-Depth Analysis
The April 13 episode of 'Last Week Tonight' featured a segment where John Oliver discussed the impact of tariffs on American industry. As an example, he cited the cancellation of a $300 million plastics recycling plant in Erie, Pennsylvania. This led him to recount the story of General "Mad" Anthony Wayne, a Revolutionary War general who died in Erie in 1796.
The story, originally published by Uncharted Lancaster, details how Wayne's body was boiled to separate his bones for reburial closer to his family. Oliver joked that this gruesome tale is the only thing he knows about Erie. The segment included a clip from Uncharted Lancaster's Instagram account, driving traffic to the local history organization.
Adam Zurn, who leads Uncharted Lancaster, expressed his excitement about the national spotlight. His organization focuses on "discovering history through adventure" and offers various historical tours and events in the Lancaster area. The exposure from 'Last Week Tonight' is expected to significantly boost Uncharted Lancaster's visibility and participation in its programs.
The story exemplifies how local historical events, however strange, can capture national attention and shape a region's identity.
FAQ
What is Uncharted Lancaster?
It's a local history website and organization in Lancaster County that focuses on historical adventures and tours.
Takeaways
- National media can unexpectedly highlight local history and organizations.
- Strange or unusual historical events can become a defining characteristic of a place.
- Local initiatives like Uncharted Lancaster can benefit significantly from national exposure.
Discussion
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Sources
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