Norvelt, Pennsylvania

The story of "Dead End in Norvelt" takes place in Norvelt, Pennsylvania. It was a small town that consisted of low-income housing and was founded by Eleanor Roosevelt who believed that every family was entitled to an attractive, comfortable home.

Mr. Gantos' War Souvenirs

Mr. Gantos served in the Marines during World War II. He was stationed in the Pacific and brought home Japanese military souvenirs including a rifle, a sword and binoculars.

Roosevelt Community Center

Mr. Spizz ran the Roosevelt Community Center which was charged with helping the people of Norvelt in many ways including delivering meals to the needy and elderly.

Rat Poison

Vermin were a problem in Norvelt and a number of residents purchased rat poison in an effort to control the rat and mice population. Rat poison also figured in the deaths of some of the elderly residents.

Chocolates and Flowers

Mr...