Coal Miner Testimonials

The economic success of coal company towns depended on how effectively coal companies managed their employees and their town's economic dynamic. The political dynamic, however, was non-existent in coal company towns. Due to the lack of elected officials and municipally owned services, company towns failed politically, thereby creating an unhealthy environment by which coal mine workers felt unrepresented and unattached to their communities. 

In addition to building churches and school, coal companies also hired ministers, priests, and teachers to fully staff these buildings. This created a dynamic by which miners and their families were unable to confide in these service-oriented members for emotional and personal needs. As a result, miners and their families carried a feeling of resentment towards the coal company operators and owners, deeming their actions toward the community selfish and inhumane.

Dave Corbin Interview Excerpt 2, Even the Heavens Weep

Conversation with former coal miner Dave Corbin. Corbin testifies to the coal town economic dynamic.

Dave Corbin Interview Excerpt 1, Even the Heavens Weep

Conversation with former coal miner Dave Corbin. Corbin testifies to the coal town social dynamic.