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The Coalspur Mine |
| In 1909, the Coalspur mine prospect was one of the earliest coal mines opened on the Coal Branch. The Yellowhead Pass Coal and Coke Company was created in 1911 to work a 5000 acre lease near the rail line. The mine had a difficult history and was closed in 1915 due to an underground fire. The original mine opened and closed periodically under many operators and many small operations opened in the general vicinity. Despite the instability of the local coal mines, the community thrived throughout this time as, unlike other towns on the Branch, Coalspur had a diversified economy. It was the headquarters for the Brazeau Forest District and was the hub of the Coal Branch, supporting railway workers and travellers. The Vitally mine of Coalspur was the last to close in the Coal Branch in 1962. Today, a few people make their homes near the old Coalspur siding. |