Explore the fascinating history of Big Mine Run Colliery, one of the most productive anthracite coal mines in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania during its booming 19th century. The mining operation was located north of Ashland.

Located in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Coal Region, Big Mine Run Colliery’s early history is documented in an 1881 account detailing operations, production capabilities, and the lives of hundreds of mineworkers.

From the 1881 History of Schuylkill County, PA:

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Big Mine Run Colliery was opened in 1854 by Bast & Pierson, and operated by them until 1868, when it was purchased by Taylor & Lindsay, who operated it until 1872, when they sold toe Jeremiah Taylor & Co., who have owned and operated it to the present time (1881).

The colliery has been, and still continues to be, one of the most successful in the anthracite region. The breaker has a capacity of 1,000 tons, and an average production of 750 tons daily. The vein worked is the Buck Mountain.

356 men and boys are employed, and four steam engines of 135 horse power. The firm own 26 tenement houses. The coal shipped from this mine is valued highly by manufacturers and other competent judges. The workings consist of four drift levels, with four main and two slant gangways, and 44 breasts, working in 15 feet of coal.

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You can find the full 1881 history of Schuylkill County here

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Read more about mining history in Schuylkill County

A horrifying mining accident in Schuylkill County | July 1864

This 1864 map of Schuylkill County includes detailed illustrations of mining operations

Illustration of threats against non-union mineworkers in Schuylkill County| 1871

The East Brookside Mine Disaster | August 2, 1913

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