Life of a Coal Miner
Read the following account that describes the life of a Pennsylvania coal miner circa 1902.
In the 1970s, as part of an oral history project, miners from northeastern Pennsylvania were interviewed about their work experiences. Some were included in the book Anthracite People: Families, Unions and Work, 1900-1940, by John Bodnar which is on reserve at the library and available in the bookstore.
►Choose 2-3 of the individuals profiled and read their stories. What are struck you about the narratives?
►Visit the page on Breaker Boys and do the activity.
►On your blog, write a diary entry from the point of view of a coal miner, or a member of his family (wife, son, daughter, parent).
