No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum is a museum and coal mine in Lansford, Pennsylvania that has the distinction of being the world’s oldest continuously operated anthracite coal mine. Here, visitors can tour the mine by riding a train and seeing what it was like to be a miner during the 200 years it was in operation. Read on below for more information about No. 9 Coal Mine and what makes it such a special attraction to visit during your Poconos vacation!
No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum first began as an anthracite coal mine opened in 1855, established to harvest 90,000 tons of anthracite coal each year, the most popular type of fuel for heating homes and businesses in the Northeast at the time. From that year until 1972, No. 9 Mine operated continuously.
30 years after the mine closed, it was reopened in 2002 as a way to promote tourism and give visitors an educational look at the mining industry that dominated the region for two centuries. The mine is now preserved, and guided tours that take you and your guests 1,600 feet into the mountain are available. See the original 900 foot elevator shaft, the mule-way, and the miner’s hospital, all of which give great insight into the daily lives of the miners who worked here.
The accompanying Mine Museum showcases artifacts from the mine and its miners, from tools and fuel cans to blasting equipment and a wash shanty for clothes. Historical photos, models, and paintings are also displayed.
Admission prices range from $3.00 – $10.00 depending on age, whether you are traveling with a group of 20 or more people, and whether you choose to visit the museum only or the mine and the museum. Tours are given each hour between 11:00am and 3:00pm.
No. 9 Coal Mine is located at 9 Dock St., Lansford, PA 18232. You can find out more information about the mine and museum by calling (570) 645-7074, by emailing no9minemuseum@windstream.net, or by speaking with one of our reservation specialists at Pocono Mountain Rentals.
The history of Lansford is, as to be expected, one that intersects with the coal mine. Without the mine, this town may not have come into existence! Today it is a sleepy village in which many of its residents begin their days with coffee and breakfast at Cabrera’s, found at 161 W Ridge Street. Gossip is exchanged, coffee is exclaimed over, and simple breakfasts are gulped down before heading to work or school.
Local residents are proud of their history, as shown by the museum, but the anthracite antiques and collectibles store located at 200 W Bertsch Street offers another example of this pride. Filled with collectibles and artifacts that tell the story of Lansford, the proprietor’s love for collecting shows in each object he offers for sale. The store isn’t one that you can wander in off the street and browse, though. Open by appointment only, you can call 484-268-0806 and set up an appointment in advance, exploring the mine earlier in the day and seeking out treasures after.
If you prefer to be spontaneous, Lansford is only a few miles from Jim Thorpe, which offers a selection of stores to explore! Antiques on Broadway, found at 52 Broadway in Jim Thorpe, has some of the prettiest quilts you’ve ever seen, in addition to an extensive selection of collectables and treasures. Sellers Books & Art at 65 Broadway specializes in used books and stunning art. The Dreisbach House (62 Broadway) is a vintage clothing store featuring the funky and the fantastic!
After a day of antique and museum browsing, most visitors are ready for a big meal, and when in Jim Thorpe, you’ll have plenty of spots to choose from! The Stone Row Pub and Eatery, found at 45 Race Street, is located inside a building constructed in the 1880s, offering a historical atmosphere to go along with their pub food and cold beers. Not afraid to venture outside the box, their wasabi eggs, while not world famous, are loved by all who taste them! When you seek a dining experience, not just a casual night out, Moya at 24 Race Street never fails to please. Here is where you will find thick and juicy steaks, rich and flavorful sauces, and fresh and sweet seafood, as well as a strong wine menu offering the perfect accompaniment to every dinner choice.
To learn more about No. 9 Coal Mine and other fascinating attractions that the Poconos have to offer during your stay, contact our representatives and ask about booking your accommodations in one of our amazing vacation rentals today!