Signal Centennial Provides Glance of Mountain Life in 1919
Signal Mountain was founded 100 years ago, and the town is ready for its festive Centennial Anniversary! Now is a great time to reflect on what our beloved town was like in 1919.
What was it like living in coal mining communities on Signal Mountain? There was no running water or electricity in the mining communities, even by the 1920s. Primary schools, located near the mines, provided only basic education for the very youngest children. Far too soon, the young boys went to work in the mines along with their fathers, uncles and brothers. By the age of 40 or 50, most men had developed black lung disease and were too sick to continue working.
What was it like living in coal mining communities on Signal Mountain? There was no running water or electricity in the mining communities, even by the 1920s. Primary schools, located near the mines, provided only basic education for the very youngest children. Far too soon, the young boys went to work in the mines along with their fathers, uncles and brothers. By the age of 40 or 50, most men had developed black lung disease and were too sick to continue working.