Coal Mining- Vicki G.

As America became colonized, there was plenty of water, animal fuel and wood to supply the colonies, but with the growing population and growing competition among colonies to be better and more modern, the utilization of and mining of coal exploded in the 19th century. In fact, coal production increased from 2.5 million tons in 1840 to over 20 million tons in 1860. Much of this production was due to the decrease in production of coal in the Richmond, VA area and development and production of a new harder coal called anthracite coal primarily in Pennsylvania. One major reason that coal production decreased in the Richmond area was due to the lack or transportation networks in the area and the expense of utilizing turnpikes. With the arrival of anthracite coal in Pennsylvania, different from the bituminous coal in the Richmond area, there were several navigation companies in the areas of production as well as more waterways to transport coal and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Coal began to be used more widely in homes for cooking, heating and as fuel for steam engines. As consumption increased, the development of a more pure coal called “coke” coal made from the bituminous coal grew, and became an important fuel source in the steel and iron industries. Also, as production grew, some employees became unhappy being paid by the ton, instead of by the hour. This led to the development of unions and most notably, the creation of the United Mine Workers of America in 1890. By 1900, coal had become a king in the economic growth of America.