09/02/2024
In honor of Labor Day this year, we'd like to highlight an incredible example of archaeological research and labor history in the United States. On April 20, 1914, in Ludlow, Colorado, soldiers from the Colorado National Guard and private guards hired by the coal company opened fire on a tent colony of 1200 striking miners and their families. The Ludlow Massacre was part of the Colorado Coalfield War, set against the backdrop of the struggle for labor rights throughout the country during the early 20th century. In 1997, a team of archaeologists from the University of Denver, Fort Lewis College, and Binghamton University began archaeological research at Ludlow as part of the Colorado Coal Field War Project. Their research identified the location of the miners' tent camp and helped tell the story of day-to-day life there. If you are ever in the area, we highly recommend a visit to the memorial of the Ludlow Massacre. Surrounding the monument, you will find incredible information, including photos and maps, based on the archaeological research that helps tell Ludlow's story. If you aren't in the area but wish to learn more, the Colorado Coal Field War Project has phenomenal online resources.
