CONTENT WARNING
Materials in the Library of Virginia’s collections contain historical terms, phrases, and images that are offensive to modern readers. These include demeaning and dehumanizing references to race, ethnicity, and nationality; enslaved or free status; physical and mental ability; and gender and sexual orientation.
Context
Coal is amongst Virginia’s most valuable natural resources. The first coal mines in Virginia were developed in the 1790’s as exploration of the land led to the discovery of coal in central Virginia. Coal was carried from the mines along the Triassic Basin near present day Midlothian in Chesterfield County to manufacturing facilities along the James River. The Chesterfield Railroad was the first Virginia railroad and the second commercial railroad in the United States. Train cars loaded with coal were moved by gravity downhill to the docks on the James River. In places where the line ran uphill, mules helped the train cars climb steep slopes. The empty train cars were hauled back by the mules to the mine, to be reloaded again.
The role of coal has been critical in shaping the growth of Virginia, particularly in Southwest Virginia. The demand for coal surged in the 1880s, when the development of railroads made it possible to ship the bulky product to the commercial marketplaces from the more mountainous regions of the state. In the 1980s, the demand for coal dropped due to the Clean Air Act requirements for low-sulfur coal. However, mines continue to operate in the southwestern part of the state and coal continues to be an important natural resource in Virginia.
Citation: Coal Piers. Mann Photograph Collection, Prints and Photographs, Special Collections, Library of Virginia.
Standards
Art: 4.1, 5.1
Earth Science: ES.6, ES.8
Physics: PH.3, PH.4
Suggested Questions
Preview Activity
Look at It: Look at the photograph. Why might a company build a new pier to transport coal in 1913? Where might the coal might be going?
Post Activities
STEM STAT: Virginia was and still is rich in minerals and other natural resources. What makes Virginia a prime location for natural resources? Use your knowledge of Earth Science, geography, and topography when answering this question.
Current Connection: The abundance of natural resources in Southwest Virginia is still a factor in economic and public policy decisions today. Identify three competing interests from the perspectives of an environmentalist who wants to protect natural resources and from those in industries seeking to use the natural resources.
STEM STAT: Consider the available technology to move material in 1923 and the often-challenging terrain in Virginia. Why was gravity used to bring the coal train cars downhill to ports along the James River? What mechanical advantage would there be to using gravity to move heavy coal loaded train cars? Use your knowledge of Earth Science, geography, physics when answering this question.