Hazleton’s historic coal mine, which ceased operations in 1955, is poised for a revival. Thanks to efforts from local volunteers, the site aims to transform into a vibrant tourist attraction, breathing life into the region’s storied past.
“Not only do we want to blow people’s socks off, giving them the best mine tour that they’ve ever had, but we also want to reconstruct the original breaker because there’s none left. They’ve all been torn down,” stated Justin Emershaw.
Emershaw, a mine engineer with American Anthracite, is part of Underground Miners, the nonprofit behind this ambitious project. Their previous success includes reopening the Brooks Mine at Nay Aug Park in Scranton in August 2023.
“We showed the public just what we can do and really put a good name for the industry and the group, and now it’s like we want to take that another level, a level further,” Emershaw added.
The planned revitalization of the West Broad Street location represents their most significant challenge yet, with strong backing from Hazleton Mayor Jeff Cusat.
“We have the opportunity to do something and show people what it was like at the turn of last century,” Cusat remarked, emphasizing the importance of preserving Northeast Pennsylvania’s coal heritage.
The initiative was highlighted during a screening of WVIA’s documentary “The Secrets Beneath Hazleton”, produced by local Timothy Novotney.
‘It’s going to be really cool’
The project includes plans to replicate the original Hazle Mines Breaker, a facility where raw coal was processed. This new version will host a museum, gift shop, and a steam punk-themed craft brewery.
“When people think of anthracite heritage, you know, there’s a few things that come to mind,” Emershaw explained. “Breaker boys, the mules, but almost everybody recognizes the coal breaker. I think to bring one back and make it an actual public house and an attraction, I think it’s going to be really cool.”
The tour will involve descending an 884-foot slope, guided by experts in period attire, offering a glimpse into the 1800s mining history.
The history
Established in 1838, the mine once employed 1,700 workers. Emershaw noted the extensive underground infrastructure supporting miners, including stables, repair shops, and even barber shops and a speakeasy.
He envisions the tour showcasing the expansive scale of 19th-century colliery operations, distinct from attractions like the Lackawanna Coal Mine Tour or Ashland’s Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train.
Next steps
Mayor Cusat confirmed that the city is contracting for the property, with substantial funding pledged by a local charity. Additional grants are being pursued.
Underground Miners will undertake restoration efforts and manage the attraction. “We have to try to develop it, reconstruct it, bring in engineers. Then we also have to raise enough money to see if we could get this off the ground, then obviously try to recreate that structure,” Cusat explained.
Cusat believes the mine tour could integrate with downtown revitalization efforts, potentially becoming a unique draw for Hazleton. “I just think it would really be a boom to the city of Hazelton and a tourist attraction like no other,” he concluded.
