Explore Over 200 Photos Of U.S. Coal Communities At This Striking National Archives Exhibit

Uncover the rich history of coal communities across the nation at the National Archives exhibit, ‘Power & Light: Russell Lee’s Coal Survey.’

Claire Cahill - Commercial Editor • May 24, 2024

Exterior of U.S. National Archives with Power & Light: Russell Lee’s Coal Survey signage — Claire Cahill / Secret D.C.

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Looking for a new enlightening exhibit to check out in D.C.? You’re going to want to pay a visit to Power & Light at the National Archives Building. Complete with over 200 photographs, the 3,000-square-foot exhibit highlights Russel Lee’s Coal Survey.

In 1946, the American documentary photographer went to remote coal communities across the U.S., capturing photos of coal miners and their families in 13 states as part of a nationwide survey. The survey was conducted due to a strike-ending agreement between the United Mine Workers of America and the U.S. government.

Miners' wives and children on the front porch of a typical, fifty year old house. Kentucky Straight Creek Coal Company, Belva Mine, abandoned after explosion [in] Dec. 1945, Four Mile, Bell County, Kentucky. — Russell Lee / U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

Secret D.C. got a firsthand look at the exhibition, and it was nothing short of fascinating. As we dove into the lives of the miners and their families, we uncovered captivating photographs of the laborers at work, with their families inside their company-owned homes, and out in their communities. From large-scale prints and projections to digital interactives, each photo was as powerful as the next.

Changing shifts at the mine portal in the afternoon. Inland Steel Company, Wheelwright #1 & 2 Mines, Wheelwright, Floyd County, Kentucky — Russell Lee / U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

Power & Light: Russell Lee’s Coal Survey also contains a handwritten note from President Truman concerning the coal strike, protest notes on coal bags, and more eye-opening historical information. The full series of Russell Lee’s photographs can be found exclusively within the holdings of the National Archives.

Children of miners on the fence in front of the Howard house. Gilliam Coal and Coke Company, Gilliam Mine, Gilliam, McDowell County, West Virginia — Russell Lee / U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

The exhibition is open inside the Lawrence O’Brien Gallery at the National Archives Building through July 6, 2025, giving you plenty of time to plan a visit!

We highly recommend checking out Power & Light to uncover the story and humanity behind these laborers who helped build the nation. As always, entry to the National Archives is free of charge.

If you visit the exhibit between June 17th and 19th, you can also see the original Emancipation Proclamation, which will be on display at the National Archives in honor of Juneteenth.

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