This project captures the sights, sounds and smells of an era. The very personal and emotional commitment of coal miners is reflected and explained through photographs, new and archival, as well as their memories and stories. We will remember their camaraderie and work ethic, even their nicknames, in this celebration of a unique and honourable livelihood.

The project is a co-production of Ian McNeil Real Media and ICON Communications & Research Inc., in collaboration with the Cape Breton Development Corporation. Ian McNeil has provided editorial direction, his credibility established during a journalism career, which included a live broadcast on the day when coal production concluded in Cape Breton. Production leadership has been provided by ICON, an award-winning Cape Breton agency, many of whose team members have roots in the Island’s coal mining heritage.