Coalfield

A coalfield is an area of certain uniform characteristics where coal is mined. The criteria for determining the approximate boundary of a coalfield are geographical and cultural, in addition to geological. A coalfield often groups the seams of coal, railroad companies, cultural groups, and watersheds and other geographical considerations.

 At one time the coalfield designation was an important category in business and industrial discussions. The terminology declined into unimportance progressed, and was probably only referred to by a few small railroads and history buffs. 

Renewed interest in industrial heritage and coal mining history has brought the old names of the coalfields before a larger audience. At one time the coalfield designation was an important category in business and industrial discussions cultural groups.

The Pocahontas Coalfield continued to thrive through two world wars. The mines at Pocahontas were able to ship coal when the Norfolk & Western Railway extended a branch line there. As this railroad was extended westward through Counties the coalfield expanded with it. By the mid- area was booming with mines at Coopers and Freeman.