Horrors of Coal Hill Remembered More than Century Later, Arkansas

Horrors of Coal Hill remembered more than century later
by Tom Dillard | November 15, 2020 at 1:00 a.m.

I have driven by the Coal Hill exit on Interstate 40 for decades. Every time I see that sign, I am reminded of the “Coal Hill Horrors.”

In the late 19th century the town was the site of abuse of state prisoners who were leased out to a coal mining company. The Coal Hill Horrors revealed a penal system that was corrupt and violent. The nationwide publicity it generated increased the already widespread perception of Arkansas as a Gothic place to be entered at one’s own risk. Click here to read more.

Thanks for the share, KE!