Life in the Coal Mine

The coal mines of the Tennessee Coal, Iron, and Railroad Company were some of the largest employers of convict laborers. Coal mines were dangerous for all workers. Collapsing mines, suffocation, gas poisoning, explosions, and heavy machinery accidents were daily dangers. Before electricity, men often worked standing in water, swinging their sharp pick axes and shoveling coal in the flickering light of their gas headlamps. After electricity, they had to avoid touching the live wires. For those who survived those hazards, long-term exposure to poor air caused chronic lung diseases such as black lung. 

For convict laborers, conditions were even worse. Poor food rations, cramped sleeping quarters, and inadequate health care led to waves of diseases. Violent convicts bullied and abused weaker ones. Physical punishment for not meeting the quotas for coal collected or insubordination included whippings, being tied up and tossed into solitary confinement, and water torture. Shackles, chains, and other methods were used to prevent escape.