Coal Mine Operations of 1938 - Massive Power Shovel! | 16mm Film Scan

In this silent amateur film, see the amazing massive equipment and operations of a large open coal mine of the Truax-Traer company. Couldn't determine the location, but "Every-where west" "Burlington Route" is visible on a train car. Showcases a variety of tractors, trucks, bulldozers, and an absolutely massive power shovel. Unsure if it's steam/diesel/electric - leave a comment if you know!

Film opens with a very large steam shovel loading up trucks, while other operations of the mine and equipment are shown throughout the film. Film is from the L. Russel Kelce collection, however he likely was not the camera operator as it was a dupe print and I couldn't find any connections he had to Truax-Traer. Film print dates to 1938, however it could have very well been filmed earlier.

Corrected film for contrast, exposure, framing and print light bleed. Film is a bit softer due to being a duplicate.

Contact regarding usage


Soundtrack Added (Public domain from LoC):
No one knows what it's all about – Jack Shilkret Orchestra
If you don't want me (Stop doggin' me 'round) – Jan Garber Orchestra
Put away a little ray of golden sunshine for a rainy day – George Olsen

#CoalMining #SteamShovel #IndustrialHistory #VintageFilm #MiningEquipment #BucyrusErie #RailroadHistory #ArchivalFootage #mining #HeavyMachinery #16mmFilm #RetroIndustry #coalmines #1930s