I have read your email more than once, Michael, and will read it again. It is a great education esp the info about SW Virginia and Sullivan County being downriver from coal areas in VA Really useful and just plain interesting too. Thank you. The relevant area of Sullivan County would, I think, fit the characteristic of being on, or close to, the state line—Bristol and Bluff City. One piece of info that has come to light since my query is that the "cole coluer" James Smith died in 1918 of TB. Wonder if his involvement in some aspect or other of coal would have lead to his final diagnosis and death. Thanks again. Ruth Ottawa On Mon, Mar 8, 2010 at 2:52 PM, Montgomery Michael <[email protected]> wrote: > > The man was a collier (according to the OED, "one whose occupation or trade is to procure or supply coal (formerly charcoal); one engaged in the coal trade").  I don't know what part of Sullivan County is involved here, but ....