Coal town

A coal town, also known as a coal camp or mining town, is a type of settlement that developed around coal mines. These towns were typically established by coal companies to house workers and their families, providing them with housing, stores, schools, and other amenities. Coal towns were a significant part of the industrial landscape in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other coal-rich regions.

History

Coal towns emerged during the Industrial Revolution when coal became a critical energy source for industries and railroads. The demand for coal led to the establishment of numerous coal mines, and consequently, the development of towns to support the workforce needed to extract the coal.

In the United States, coal towns were prevalent in the Appalachian Mountains, the Midwest, and the Western United States. These towns were often isolated, located near the coal seams, and were typically owned by the coal companies themselves. The companies provided housing and other facilities, but also controlled many aspects of life in the town, including the local economy and social activities.

Characteristics

Coal towns were characterized by their company-owned housing, which was often simple and uniform. The company store was a central feature, where workers could purchase goods, often on credit. This led to a system where workers were indebted to the company, a situation famously captured in the song "Sixteen Tons".

Education and healthcare in coal towns were also provided by the company, with schools and clinics established to serve the community. However, the quality of these services varied widely.

Decline

The decline of coal towns began in the mid-20th century as the demand for coal decreased and alternative energy sources became more prevalent. Many coal towns were abandoned as mines closed, leading to economic decline and population loss. Some towns have survived by diversifying their economies or by becoming tourist attractions, highlighting their historical significance.

Legacy

Coal towns have left a lasting impact on the cultural and historical landscape. They are often remembered for their role in the labor movement, as many were sites of significant labor strikes and conflicts, such as the Battle of Blair Mountain and the Ludlow Massacre.

Also see

• Mining town
• Company town
• Industrial Revolution
• Appalachian culture
• Labor history of the United States