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Study of Rhea coal-mining area could reap benefits, officials say

By: Cliff Hightower
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William Wade

DAYTON, Tenn. — For three months last year, William Wade trod along the banks of Richland Creek and the ridges of Dayton Mountain armed with a camera and GPS locator.

His mission: Take pictures and map all structures within the newly formed Laurel Snow Pocket Wilderness State Park, northwest of Dayton.

“Specifically, it was to locate, catalog and identify any manmade remains here in the Laurel Snow Pocket Wilderness,” Mr. Wade said. “Manmade remains of anything.”

Mr. Wade received a $4,300 grant from the Appalachian College Association last year as part of his minor studies in history at Bryan College. During his research he gathered information about the Dayton Coal & Iron Co., which mined the area from 1883 to 1913.

Trekking along the hills, he discovered some rare historical knowledge. He found an old mine entrance below Buzzard’s Point, a popular hiking destination, he said. He also found a pen where miners kept mules that were used to haul coal out of the mines below, he said.

“It was one of those odd things you don’t think about,” he said.

Some state and local officials said last week the information Mr. Wade has gathered might be used to help preserve history at the park. The state bought the property last year from Bowater Inc.

Tom Davis, chairman of the Rhea County Historical Society, said the park is now used mostly by hikers for outdoor recreation.

“His research is going to be valuable as the state park develops there,” Mr. Davis said. “It’s going to have value as a historical resource.”

Tammy Heise, spokeswoman for the Tennessee Historical Commission, said several parks in East Tennessee offer historical interpretation, including Fort Loudoun, the Davy Crockett birthplace, the Alvin York home and Old Stone Fort.

She said Laurel Snow is still new to the system, but Mr. Wade’s research could help as the state plans a strategy for the park.

“We are working to create a planning document to guide our preservation of its features and educate visitors about its historical and ecological significance,” she said.

Ms. Heise said the research eventually could lead to historical markers and other interpretive features.

Mr. Wade said he wants to self-publish a book to put in area libraries and give to the Rhea County Historical Society. And he said he hopes the state can use his research.

“Hopefully, they can put up some historical markers,” he said.