Clinchco: Story of a Mining Town

Susie Baker. 1982. 16 mm Film. 

This series of interviews and photographs (many from family albums) chronicles the boom and bust of a biracial coal camp in the hills of Virginia. Retired miners and their families recall the joys and hardships of life in what was once a company- controlled community. The documentary, which was originally produced as a filmstrip, depicts the history of black and white settlement, the suppression of union organizing with machine guns and hired thugs, and Clinchco today — a shrinking community of retired people. The film presents an historical overview touching issues related to labor history, African-American studies, American history, sociology, urban development, and the American South.

“An intriguingly unadorned portrait of a town like so many in America that build along with an industry and crumble in the wake of its aftermath.”— Voice of Youth Advocates

“Those who like documentary presentations of the oral history type will appreciate this one. The story is compelling … a well- done presentation.”— Choice

“Effectively uses strong visuals coupled with poignant excerpts from interviews and well-chosen folk music to combine into a unified whole.”— Media and Methods

All films in the Appalshop collection are protected under Title 17 of the United States Copyright Law. The unauthorized distribution or public performance of copyrighted works constitutes copyright infringement under the Copyright Act, Title 17 U.S Code Section 106(3)-(4). This conduct may also violate the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works and The Universal Copyright Convention, as well as bilateral treaties with other countries that allow for protection of Rights Holder copyrighted works even beyond US borders. To receive rights for public performance of our works, including educational or institutional licensing, please contact Appalshop Sales to complete the purchase at 606-633-0108 or sales@appalshop.org.

You can learn more about Appalshop and our work at www.Appalshop.org