They helped to build a nation and kept it warm. They built communities and kept them alive. Cape Breton’s coal miners shaped an island’s culture and a nation’s economy. It is time to celebrate their many contributions, to acknowledge their legacy, while they are still with us.

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 book is written and edited by former journalist and radio host Ian McNeil, who collected stories from miners and their families to form the basis of the book. Creative design is provided by ICON, an award-winning firm. Ian McNeil and many members of the ICON team are descended from proud coal mining families.

The project is made possible by the financial and material support of several partners. Click on Project Partners to learn more. A portion of proceeds from sales of the book will be donated to The Men of the Deeps and the Cape Breton Miners' Museum in Glace Bay.