Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine In Beckley West Virginia
The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is a historical site located in Beckley, West Virginia. It was once an operating coal mine, but today it serves as a museum and educational center that offers visitors a unique look into the region’s coal mining past. In this article, we will explore the history of the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and its significance in the coal mining industry.
The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine was originally known as the Phillips-Sprague Mine and was opened in 1889. At the time, the mine produced high-quality coal, which was in high demand for both industrial and domestic use. In 1910, a new owner took over the mine and renamed it the New River Company Mine. The company expanded the mine and introduced new technologies, including a modern hoist system and electric power, which increased the mine’s productivity and efficiency.
In the 1920s and 1930s, the coal mining industry in West Virginia experienced a boom, as demand for coal continued to grow. The New River Company Mine was one of the largest and most productive mines in the state, employing over 700 men. However, this period also marked a dark chapter in the history of the coal mining industry. Working conditions were often dangerous, and accidents and fatalities were common. The mine was also notorious for employing child labor.
In the 1950s, as demand for coal began to decline, the New River Company Mine was closed. The mine lay dormant for several years until it was purchased by the City of Beckley in 1960. The city saw an opportunity to preserve the site’s rich history and transform it into a museum and tourist attraction. The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine officially opened to the public in 1962.
Today, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine offers visitors a unique look into the coal mining industry’s past. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine, which includes a ride on a coal train and a walk through the underground mine. The tour also includes a visit to the recreated coal camp, which features historic buildings and exhibits that showcase the daily life of coal miners and their families.
In addition to the mine tour, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine also features a museum that houses a collection of mining artifacts and memorabilia. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the tools, equipment, and technologies used in the coal mining industry throughout history.
The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is a significant historical site that offers visitors a unique look into the coal mining industry’s past. It serves as a reminder of the hardships and sacrifices made by coal miners and their families and the role that coal mining played in the development of the region’s economy. The site is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of West Virginia and the coal mining industry.
