08/15/2025
At Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine in West Virginia, you’ll ride a real “man car” deep into the historic Phillips-Sprague Mine, which began operating in 1889. Guided by former miners, you’ll navigate dim, narrow tunnels and see firsthand how coal was once extracted entirely by hand. Back above ground, explore the restored coal camp, complete with a miner’s family home, one-room schoolhouse, bachelor’s shanty, and a coal company store filled with period artifacts. The site captures how every aspect of life...work, school, church...centered on the mines. Be sure to visit the Rahall Company Store Museum for an even deeper look into Beckley’s rich mining history.