Richard L. Davis and the Color Line in Ohio Coal

Discover the remarkable story of Richard L. Davis in "Richard L. Davis and the Color Line in Ohio Coal," authored by Frans H. Doppen and published by McFarland & Co Inc in 2016. This compelling 192-page paperback delves into the life of Davis, who was born just before the Emancipation Proclamation in Roanoke County, Virginia. In 1882, he relocated to Rendville, Ohio, where he became a checkweighman and an early organizer for mine labor. Notably, on January 22, 1890, he was one of only two African Americans to attend the founding convention of the United Mine Workers of America in Columbus, Ohio. This book not only highlights Davis's contributions to labor rights but also explores the complex racial dynamics in the coal industry during a pivotal time in American history. Perfect for history enthusiasts and those interested in labor movements, this book is a must-read for understanding the intersection of race and labor in the United States.