9/11/18
Braidwood natives, especially those of a certain vintage, should be able to grasp most of the references in the poem. Others might be unaware of the city’s historical significance.
Coal mining began in earnest after the accidental discovery of coal in 1864. Shaft mining evolved to “strip” mining in 1927, but both methods resulted in soil ripped from the depths and deposited to form “spoils,” untillable mounds of rocks and clay. Stripping cut 300 feet deep gashes in the ground that became lakes. Miners, including Black strike breakers, were imported from various countries and neighboring states, creating a uniquely diverse Braidwood population.
“Imagine a town with holes in the ground,
Surrounded by raw, barren spoils;
Lakes soon emerged fed by waters submerged,
Brought back the treeless, shocked soil.”
Born here or elsewhere, came from a class where,
Status and wealth had no weight;
Worked hard as farmers, truckers, and miners,
Earning respect… plus food on their plate.
Like Braidwood itself folks showed their true grit,
Scraped by with all they possessed;
For neighbors and friends their bounds knew no ends,
Especially for those under stress.
Coming from east of the ocean,
Arriving at this mining town;
Unlike many towns around us,
Their colors were white, black, and brown.
Some stayed as planted while some moved away,
Living ‘long highway and rails,
Homegrown had found their true treasures,
While others have sought fresher trails.
Whether moving to Chi Town or Gotham,
Nashville, DC, or Denver;
Braidwood pride and mettle were with them,
They are from this town as remembered.
“Imagine a town with lakes all around,
Surrounded by hills leafy green;
Where people have pride of where they preside,
Also proud are those gone at eighteen.”
Braidwood Beginnings 