Owing to the abundance of natural resources in southwestern Indiana when Evansville was founded over 200 years ago, many coal mines have existed in the region. This is Ingle Coal Mine as it appeared in 1901, about a half-century after it became the first coal mine to open in Indiana. It was located on the city’s west side at the base of a hill near the Ohio River. When the mine closed in 1918, the land was cleared so that the new West Side junior high school, which was later renamed Reitz High School, would have a less obstructed view of the river.
FOOTNOTES: We want to thank Patricia Sides, Archivist of Willard Library for contributing this picture that shall increase people’s awareness and appreciation of Evansville’s rich history. If you have any historical pictures of Vanderburgh County or Evansville please contact please contact Patricia Sides, Archivist Willard Library at 812) 425-4309, ext. 114 or e-mail her at www.willard.lib.in.us.
