Anthracite Workers Today: A Lifetime Calling

For generations, photographers have been drawn to the unique social and visual landscape of northeast Pennsylvania. Australian native Dane Rhys will illustrate his recent journeys into the modern anthracite coal industry. Going into underground mines that almost appear unchanged from a century ago to open pit mines with machines larger than most buildings, Dane has set out to tell the story of older workers in coal mines and many other industries. His captivating presentation will literally put faces to the modern anthracite industry to help define its past, present, and future. Joining Dane will be members of the Independent Miners Association to give patrons a view into the modern coal mining industry from those who still toil underground.

This event coincides with Anthracite Mining Heritage Month, an annual observance that begin in 1999 with the 40th anniversary of one of the northeast region’s largest infamous mining disasters at the Knox Mine in Pennsylvania. Starting with a program at the Anthracite Heritage Museum in Scranton, the annual event now encompasses the entire month with programming and exhibits that span the region