Posted in Tennessee
August 31, 2016
This Ride Through An Old Coal Mine In Tennessee Will Take You Back In Time
There are about 650 people in Tennessee that still make a living as coal miners, which means the mines of old and folklore aren’t gone just yet. We did a little digging (no pun intended) to figure just what coal mining means to Tennessee – and Tennesseans.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Miners currently work in four counties, Anderson, Campbell, Claiborne and Scott, and as of 2010 there were 19 active coal mines in the state with production coming in at 1,780 short tons per year.
The coal mines were responsible for a large influx of both southern and eastern European immigrants in the early part of the 20th century. Coal companies brought them in to break up strikes put in place by Tennessee natives.
Today, the TVA owns 42 cold fire power plants in Tennessee, which accounts for almost 98% of the coal power that's generated in the state.
Take a look at a day in the life of a Tennessee coal miner below. This trip takes you right to the center of Careyville Mountain.
What a curious thing…what a hard job done by Tennesseans we’ll forever respect.
