Copperton
Coal Town Gone to Grass
Copperton was one of dozens of coal mining towns that dotted southern Iowa in the late 1800s. Like many, it thrived as long as the coal held out, then faded when the seams were depleted. Today, little remains but foundations hidden in the Iowa countryside.
The Coal Years
Southern Iowa's coal deposits brought thousands of miners to the region. Company towns like Copperton sprang up next to mine entrances. Miners and their families lived in company-owned houses, shopped at company stores, and depended entirely on the mines for their livelihood.
When the Coal Ran Out
By the 1920s, the easily accessible coal seams were exhausted. Companies closed mines and moved on, leaving workers to find new employment elsewhere. Most mining towns were abandoned within a few years of their mines closing.
Timeline
- 1890 - Founded Mining company established the town
- 1900s - Peak Multiple mines operating
- 1920s - Decline Mines closed, population left
Quick Facts
- Iowa once had over 5,000 coal mines
- Appanoose County was one of Iowa's leading coal producers
- Most Iowa mining ghost towns have completely disappeared
Location
Address: Near Centerville, Iowa
Coordinates: 40.75, -92.8667