In 1869, 1872, and 1875, the first major coal strikes spread to this area. In 1872, four men were shot at the Sterling RR Station. The strike started unionism in the county. The 1875 strike resulted in over 50 arrests for riot and conspiracy at Goss Run, Woodward Twp. Union leaders Xingo Parks' and John Siney's famous trial in Clearfield drew national attention. Local miners joined the Knights of Labor then the United Mine Workers.