Grove Shaft Mine

Grove Shaft Mine (likely 1839-1850's)

Grove Shaft Mine today

Site Name: The Grove Shaft Mine

Date of Construction: Began in 1836

Reason for Construction: To take advantage of Midlothian's coal deposits and improve local economy

Site History: The Mid-Lothian Coal Mining Company began construction of the Grove Shaft Mine in 1836 under the supervision of the Woolridges. By 1839, the shaft reached a depth of 625 feet. The coal from this mine was transported hundreds of miles on a gravity and horse-drawn railroad to end up in the hands of manufacturers of iron, glass, chemicals, and copper. In addition, it was used by blacksmiths and as an energy source. During the Civil War, Midlothian coal supplied the Tredegar Iron Works with fuel to manufacture cannons. The Mid-Lothian Coal Mining Company experienced several fires in the mid-to-late 1800's. Most notably, the Pump Shaft caught fire in 1842 and exploded in 1855. The Grove Shaft Mine was not spared. By 1882, it had reached its maximum depth of 1,200 feet. In this same year a catastrophic methane explosion occurred and thirty two men were trapped inside. Despite multiple attempts, they were never rescued.

Area History: Midlothian (Originally named Mid-Lothian) was established in the 18th century as a coal mining town, producing the first commercially mined coal in the United States in 1709. The early coal mines were owned by two Scottish brothers, one from East Lothian and one from West Lothian. "Mid-Lothian" being a suitable compromise between East and West, They named their business Mid-Lothian Coal Mining Company. and the name of their company came to be associated with the town. Because of the abundant natural resources, their venture was very profitable. During the Revolutionary War, Midlothian and Chesterfield mines supplied fuel to the Westham cannon factory. As a result, British General Phillips set fire to the Chesterfield courthouse and many mines. This draws attention to how powerful the Chesterfield and Midlothian mine industry were. As the industry grew, so did the need for an efficient transport method. In 1802, coal manufacturers and citizens petitioned for a long road to transport coal. In 1804 it was opened, the gravel-surface turnpike spanning a large distance. In fact, it was the first gravel road in the state. It is now called Midlothian Turnpike, or U.S. Route 60.

What about the site has changed? Before, the mine was a large structure that served as a source of prosperity. It hired several men, but after the 1882 explosion that killed thirty two workers and cut off access to the shaft, the mine was basically abandoned. Since then, the structure has mostly fallen apart, leaving only stone remains. They mines, now a part of the Midlothian Mines Park, are fenced off with barbed wire to remain preserved and protected.

What about the surrounding area has changed? Midlothian (and Chesterfield) are no longer in the coal mining business. The mines have been shut down and left alone. While many people left the area when the mining industry declined, it has now been repopulated. Midlothian does not have any one prominent industry. However, Chesterfield, the county in which Midlothian resides, has become America's largest producer of condoms.

Reflections: To see the Grove Shaft Mine today is to experience history. One can clearly see the mark left by the devastating explosion and subsequent years of neglect. This tangible link to the past brings many people to the surrounding stretch of forest. In fact, the Mines Park serves as one of Midlothian’s major attractions. Recently plaques have been installed that give information about certain parts of the park and, just outside of the wooded area, a large mining apparatus was recreated as a monument to the town’s historical industry. I live less than a minute from the park, and walking through the forest it is interesting to think that thirty two men are still underneath, a sacrifice of Midlothian's history and an everlasting part of its future.

Author: Russell