|
 In December
2004, Fever River Research conducted a Phase II National Register
evaluation of the Taylor No. 5 Mine Site (11FK215), an abandoned
coal mining property located in Franklin County, Illinois that was
in operation between 1908 and 1951. The purpose of the project was
to evaluate the standing structures and above-grade foundation
remains associated with the historic mine site prior to the
commencement of reclamation work on the property. The work was done
at the request of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The
Taylor No. 5 Mine was part of the first generation of coal mines
developed in Franklin County but witnessed later modifications in
response to the increasing mechanization of the coal industry. The
significance of the Taylor No. 5 Mine Site revolves around the
extant washhouse, supply house, and office documented there. The
supply house and office at the mine stand out due to the fact that
they are “twins” of one another, having the same exterior dimensions
and architectural style. The fact that the same template could be
used for two buildings intended for very different functions
reflects the growing professionalization and standardization of
mining design during the early twentieth century. Another thing
that distinguishes the washhouse, supply house, and office is the
expression of social hierarchy among the mine work force in their
floor plans. The design of the washhouse also provides insights
into the relations between white and black workers at the mine. |
