Take a Walk on the Historic Side: Pocahontas Exhibition Mine & Pocahontas Cemetery

When it comes to history, Tazewell County, Virginia has a lot to offer. Whether you’re a history buff or a casual learner, there’s no better place to explore than our communities, which boast rich legacies shaped by formative industries and Appalachian culture. 

In the town of Pocahontas, much of the history revolves around coal mining and the industry’s longtime influence in the area. Founded in 1881, the town was built to support coal mining operations and the company’s miners’ residential area. 

The Pocahontas Exhibition Coal Mine No. 1 is one of our region’s top attractions. Though the Pocahontas Mine No. 1 has not been operational since 1955, it’s still drawing new visitors every year, from history fanatics to ATV tourists detouring from nearby trails — all eager to see what it’s all about. The mine also features a museum and education center for guests to explore.  

The Pocahontas Exhibition Coal Mine is considered the birthplace of Pocahontas #3 Coal Seam that was used by the U.S. Navy and in homes across the nation. Today, the mine is owned by the town and listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a “coal mining heritage” site. When it was operational, the mine produced approximately 44 million tons of coal. 

The mine is available for public tours from mid-May through October Saturdays and Sundays, from 10am to 5pm. 

About a mile away, the historic Pocahontas Cemetery and the St. Elizabeth Roman Catholic Church shines a light on more of the town’s history through art and tradition. 

For more than a century, the cemetery has served as the final resting place for residents. The cemetery was formed following an 1884 mining explosion that claimed the lives of 114 coal miners of all ages and ethnicities who were laid to rest together. Each spring, the town still hosts a candlelight vigil at the cemetery to honor the miners who perished.

When exploring the cemetery, be sure to look closely at the markers. You’ll notice a variety of languages used on the stones, honoring cultural backgrounds and roots of families who immigrated here, often in search of well-paying jobs like coal mining. 

At St. Elizabeth Roman Catholic Church, ten 130-year-old hand-painted murals decorate the interior walls and ceilings. Combined with the church’s ornate stained glass windows and gold accents, the space is truly a sight to see. The historic church still hosts mass each Sunday.

To ensure you have enough time to explore the community, we recommend spending a half-day to full-day in Pocahontas. Safe travels, friends! We hope you have fun exploring Tazewell County!