BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) - The West Virginia Virtual Academy students stepped out from behind the screens to take a step into the past.

The kids visited the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine to learn about Appalachian Culture and History. We asked two 10th graders what they knew about coal mining beforehand.

"I don't know much about coal mines," said student Skye.

"I know about Black Lung," said student Lillie.

Luckily staff and educators were present to assist in the learning process. The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine opened in 1962, as the first historic site wholly dedicated to educating the public about coal mining.

The property also showcases an early 1900s coal camp featuring the superintendent’s house, school, church, company store, and family dwellings.

“The whole mine was about as high

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