14
Brass tags (sometimes called checks or chits) were carried for safety. Each tag had the miner's identification number on it. Each numbered check corresponded to a numbered nail on a large wooden board. If the miner did not return his check at the end of the day, a rescue team was sent in to find him. In the event of an emergency, the boss could look at the tag board and know who was still underground.15
Brass tag board
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
16
Footwear was also important when working in the mine. Steel toed boots were the order of the day in the 1920's, however they appear much different than the steel-toed boots of today. The steel-toed boots pictured here have the steel protection on the outside of the shoe. This was changed in the 1940's because too many accidents were caused as a result of catching the metal lip on something at the workplace.17
Steel toed work boots and lampbelt belonged John KakukPre 1940
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
18
Pick axe6 October 1921
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
19
Pick Axe
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
20
His pick and shovel were well maintained, for that is how he made his money. Miners had a choice of working "contract" or "company". Contract miners were paid per ton of coal they loaded. Company men were paid a set daily wage, regardless of the amount of coal loaded. So if you were physically able, you made more as a contract miner than as a company man, but you had to provide you own tools.21
Miners lunchpail
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
22
A miner also carried his lunchpail and water canteen into the mine. An empty dynamite tin made a fine pail, and cost nothing. A typical lunch might have been rabbit or gopher stew, a can of beans, or bread and bacon drippings, or . The pit ponies were partial to these lunches and would often seek out the ones that tickled their taste buds if left unattended. A miner used his water both to drink, and to fuel his carbide lamp. If a miner were trapped underground, this water might keep him alive for a few days, until rescuers could reach him.23
Miners canteen or water bottle6 October 1921
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
24
Miners canteens or water bottlesCambria, Alberta
Credits:Atlas Coal Mine Historical Society
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