Kentucky is known for its rich coal mining history. In the early 20th century, the coal industry was booming in the eastern part of the state. And today, visitors can step back in time and experience what it was like to work in the mines at the Kentucky Coal Museum and Portal 31. Here’s a guide to this fascinating attraction.
Introduction to the Kentucky Coal Museum
Located in the small town of Benham, Kentucky, the Kentucky Coal Museum tells the story of the coal mining industry in the region. The museum is housed in a renovated coal company commissary building that was built in the early 1900s. Inside the museum, visitors can see exhibits on the history of mining equipment, safety measures, and the daily life of miners and their families.
Exhibits and Displays at the Kentucky Coal Museum
One of the highlights of the museum is the "Black Gold" exhibit, which showcases the history of coal mining in the region. The exhibit features a replica coal camp, complete with a miner’s house, schoolhouse, and company store. Visitors can also see a variety of mining equipment on display, including a coal car, a locomotive, and a steam shovel.
Another exhibit of note is the "Coke Hearths" display, which features two coke ovens that were used to turn coal into coke, a fuel that was used in the steel-making process. Visitors can see how the coke ovens worked and learn about the important role that coke played in the economy of the region.
The Portal 31 Underground Mine Tour
One of the highlights of the Kentucky Coal Museum is the Portal 31 Underground Mine Tour. This guided tour takes visitors deep underground to experience what it was like to work in the mines. The tour starts with a ride on a mine train that takes visitors into the mine. Once inside, visitors can see the different methods used to extract coal, learn about the history of the mine, and hear stories from former miners.
Visitors can also see the various safety measures that were put in place to protect miners, including the use of canaries to detect dangerous gases. The tour lasts for about two hours and is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of coal mining in the region.
Conclusion
The Kentucky Coal Museum and Portal 31 offer a fascinating look into the history of the coal mining industry in Kentucky. With exhibits that showcase the daily life of miners and their families, the different types of mining equipment used, and the safety measures that were put in place, visitors can truly step back in time and experience what it was like to work in the mines. And with the underground mine tour, visitors can see firsthand the conditions that miners worked in. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the past, the Kentucky Coal Museum and Portal 31 are definitely worth a visit.