November 18, 2023 - Nestled in the rugged terrains of West Virginia, the small town of Alexander stands as a living monument to the dawn of the American coal industry. It was here, in Boone County, that John Peter Salley discovered coal in 1742, setting the stage for a sector that would shape the nation's economic and industrial might. The erection of salt furnaces in 1797, seeking a more efficient fuel, marked the beginning of a mining boom, with the first commercial coal mine opening near Wheeling by 1810.

 
Alexander, West Virginia, not only witnessed the establishment of the country's first coal mine but also became the cradle of an industry that powered the United States into the Industrial Revolution. The arrival of railroads in the 1870s expanded coal's reach, and by 1883, major rail lines helped West Virginia's production surge to nearly 3 million tons. Despite the industry's current environmental challenges and the decline in coal use, innovations like HELE and CCS strive to mitigate coal's carbon footprint, maintaining its relevance in modern energy discussions.

The legacy of Alexander and the coal industry is deeply woven into the cultural and social fabric of West Virginia. The town's contribution is a tale of labor, progress, and resilience, reflecting the transformative power of natural resources. As the industry evolved, safety laws and regulatory bodies emerged, acknowledging the sacrifices of miners and the need to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.

Today, as Alexander stands as a testament to the transformative power of coal, it reminds us of the industry's historical significance and its role in shaping the present and future. The heritage of this humble town serves as a beacon, illuminating the path from a coal-dependent past towards a more sustainable and conscientious energy landscape.