This isn’t exactly a Monongahela-related question but a Pennsylvania-area question. I was on PA related forum, and people who grew up in other areas of the country had no idea that pork, sauerkraut, potatoes, and apple sauce was something traditionally served as a New Year’s Day meal. We have a bunch of “Monongahela diaspora” folks who follow this page. They lived in Monongahela at some point and moved away, but they still consider Monongahela City their home. I’d like to hear from you. Is pork, potatoes, sauerkraut, and applesauce a tradition where you live? If so, where?
Google AI says:
The tradition of eating sauerkraut, potatoes, and pork is most strongly associated with Pennsylvania Dutch culture, where it’s considered a New Year’s Day meal believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year; the pig symbolizes moving forward as it roots forward to eat, while the sauerkraut represents wealth and good health.
Key points about this tradition:
Origin:
This custom stems from German heritage, where the Pennsylvania Dutch community adopted it.
Symbolic meaning:
The pig is seen as a symbol of progress because it roots forward, representing leaving the past behind and looking ahead to the new year.
Sauerkraut significance:
The fermented cabbage signifies long life, wealth, and good health, also reflecting the resourcefulness of the Pennsylvania Dutch.
Common pairing:
This dish is often served with mashed potatoes
Just wondering what your take is on this controversial matter!
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Lost Monongahela 
I lived on Chess Street then on Bertram off Park Avenue. I don’t remember ever having that on New Year’s Day.
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OMG! YES! From Elizabeth and I had no idea everyone didn’t eat this! Man they are REALLY missing out!
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We have always had pork and sauerkraut, kolbassi and mashed potatoes.
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Good morning Dan,
My parents grew up there, in fact, my grandfather owned a bottling company right off Main Street.
I checked with her this morning, and she confirms the pork and sauerkraut meal on New Years.
I always enjoy reading your posts on this town.
Jennifer Plesher
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I grew up in the Shire Oaks area of Elrama back in the day and, yes, pork, sauerkraut, and mashed potatoes for New Year’s Day, definitely! What I don’t know, though, is if this was my mom’s side of the family, or my dad’s. Mom was from Trafford, born to Croation parents, and Dad lived all his life in Shire Oaks. So, who knows? Not me, because I don’t remember ever talking about the origin of this meal or it was one side or the other’s tradition. =-)
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As far back as I can remember we’ve been making halupkis (AKA Hunky hand grenades) for New Years.
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