What were the working conditions like for Breaker Boys?
Frequently Asked Question about the extinct profession: Breaker Boy
Breaker Boys, young boys employed in coal mines during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, faced harsh working conditions. They worked long hours, often 10-12 hours a day, in dark, dusty environments. Their tasks included separating coal from impurities, exposing them to dangerous machinery and health hazards. Many suffered from injuries and chronic respiratory issues due to the coal dust.