Events with tag - Mineral Extraction

January 1, 1748

First US Commercial Coal Mine

The first commercial coal mine in the United States opened in Richmond, Virginia in 1748, marking a pivotal moment in American industrial history. The discovery came after blacksmiths found coal fragments near the James River, leading to the establishment of the James River Coal Company.

January 1, 2008

U.S. Coal Mining Peak Production

U.S. coal mining industry reached its historic peak in 2008, producing 1.17 billion tons of coal, marking the culmination of two centuries of industrial development before entering a period of decline due to environmental regulations and market changes.