About:

The Museum of Anthracite Mining was formerly administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, the Commonwealth's official history agency. In 2006, the museum was turned over to the Borough of Ashland, Schuylkill County, for operation.

History:

The mining and use of anthracite coal in the 19th century was critical to the industrialization of Pennsylvania and the United States. Its production and use were the basis for the growth of transportation and manufacturing and led to cultural and social changes of major importance.

The Museum of Anthracite Mining focuses on the history of anthracite coal mining industries and technology. It features a diverse collection of tools, machinery and photographs that depicts the mining of hard coal.

Exhibits and equipment offer a unique glimpse of work in and around the anthracite mines, from an era when workers labored underground with pick and shovel to the surface mining operations of today.

Nearby, the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine and Steam Train allow visitors to examine firsthand the rigorous work of the coal miner.