Coal mine in Gulf, N.C., February 1949, John Hemmer, photographer, Department of Conservation and Development, Travel Information Division Photograph Collection.
Saturday, March 15, 2025

State Archives to Host a Free Virtual Program on the 1925 Glen Coal Mining Disaster

RALEIGH
Mar 15, 2025

A disaster a century ago that killed 53 coal miners in North Carolina will be commemorated with a program hosted by the State Archives.

On the morning of May 27, 1925, an explosion shook the earth in the rural coal mining communities of Cumnock and Farmville, located on the Deep River at the border of Lee and Chatham counties. Locals were not strangers to the perils of mining, and many old-timers knew what the shake meant: another disaster — this one claiming the lives of 53 miners.

Cole Wicker of the Heart of Deep River Historical Society will share a retrospective on mining and its perils in central North Carolina, "North Carolina’s Forgotten Industry: Coal Mining in Central N.C. and the Coal Glen Coal Mining Disaster.  This presentation will explore the legacy of the Deep River coal mines, including catastrophes, stints with forced labor, and the industry’s decline in the 20th century. While much of the story of Deep River coal involves death and despair, attendees will leave understanding how community efforts share the resilience of all people who labored and perished there.

The event is scheduled for Wednesday, March 19, noon-1 p.m.

Register in advance for online participation. https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_hDIPyOYhQHuSX-KzJM9Zaw#/registration

For more information, contact Adrienne Berney (adrienne.berney@dncr.nc.gov),  919-814-6863

About the State Archives
The State Archives serves as the custodian of North Carolina's historical records, preserving and providing public access to a wealth of archival materials. Through its diverse collections, educational programs, and exhibitions, the State Archives plays a crucial role in promoting an understanding and appreciation of North Carolina's rich historical legacy.

About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.

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