Central and southern Illinois has a visible landscape of American labor history. Each town we have chosen is an important reference point in that story. Whether you explore the “coal triangle route” immediately south of Springfield or extend your trip to coal towns in far southern Illinois (such as Marissa, West Frankfort, Herrin), the labor heritage of Illinois offers insights into social justice, economic equity, and the racial and ethnic dimensions of work.

Take this tour and learn about the fascinating history of America’s greatest industry: coal mining. Come face to face with memorials commemorating multiple mine tragedies. Visit small towns that once were an engine of our state’s economy.

Tourists on the “Coal Triangle Tour” at Union Miners Cemetery in Mt. Olive, 9.27.2022

ALL DAY IN THE COAL TRIANGLE TOWNS
Depart from the Coal Miner Statue at the Springfield State Capitol building
– Virden: Battle of Virden Memorial in the town square
– The Coalfield Rest Area on Highway 55 heading south (small museum exhibits)
– Carlinville: Sears Home District (built to house miners for the new mine)
– Gillespie: Illinois Coal Museum, Colonial Theater site with official historical marker
LUNCH AT TILLEY’S BAR AND GRILL IN MT OLIVE
– Mt Olive:  Mother Jones Museum and Union Miners Cemetery
– Benld: pick up Italian delicacies at Fema’s grocery – a legacy of the Italian miners
– Hillsboro: historic marker at the Courthouse, exhibition in Public Library
– Panama: John Lewis historical marker, Village Hall museum, miners memorial at Panama Union Cemetery
– The Coalfield Rest Area on Highway 55 heading north (small museum exhibits)
RETURN TO SPRINGFIELD