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The Dante Coal Miners' Memorial was erected
in December of 2001 by the Dante PRIDE organization to honor the miners of
Dante who labored so hard extracting the coal which made our country strong
in times of war and peace. Those who died in the mines are noted with a
special mark.
During the early part of the 20th century, Dante was the economic center
of Russell County. Virginia Delegate Bud Phillips, a sixth generation
resident of the area and the son and grandson of coal miners, speaking
at the groundbreaking on December 8, 2001, said, "Today is a celebration
of our heritage as we erect a tribute to coal miners and their families.
I don't think that many people appreciate the sacrifices that coal
mining families of Southwest Virginia have endured."
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The monument stands next to the Dante Volunteer Fire Department and is
open for viewing year-round. The area is maintained by the Dante Clean-Up
Crew.
Family and friends of deceased miners are welcome to add their names to
the monument. Miners must have lived in Dante or the Dante postal area and
worked in a Dante mine. Anyone wishing to add a name can contact the
monument company to arrange for the inscription. The company will advise you
of the current cost. As of March, 2007, the cost was $210 including tax. The
company must have 10 names before coming to inscribe. For more information,
please contact: |
Bluefield Monument Company
430 Virginia Avenue
Bluefield, Virginia 24605
Ph: 276-326-1174
The monument consists of three stones. To
view the names on the stones, visit these pages:
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