The Iron Boys in the Mines; or, Starting at the Bottom of the Shaft

"The Iron Boys in the Mines; or, Starting at the Bottom of the Shaft" by James R. Mears is a tale about a young boy named Stephen Rush who must find a job to support his family after his father passes away. Stephen decides to pursue a job working in the iron mines. The story focuses on Steve's ambition and his persistence. We follow Stephen as he faces many challenges, his early confrontations with Mr. Carrhart (the president of the mining company), an office boy, and the superintendent of the mine. He ultimately obtains a role as a miner's helper which marks the beginning of Steve’s journey into the mines. The story illustrates the daily struggles faced by the miners as Steve learns this new world, his growth, and his new relationships with his co-workers.