Published on December 30, 2018  

Kizzire's and Plunkett's word cloud". . . well coal miners are coal miners at heart, wherever they are. They're facing danger every day, so it brings them closer together."

Chapters

Moving to Docena

Melba Kizzire describes her first impressions of Docena as a child, comparing it to her rural background in Blount County.
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Docena Housing and Other Buildings

Melba Kizzire describes the community's housing and the dangers of house fires, as well as detailing other buildings in Docena, such as the clubhouse and the outhouses.
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Education in Docena

Melba Kizzire recalls the education system in Docena and the teachers who had the most impact on her as a child.
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The Commissary

Melba Kizzire explains the amenities that TCI provided, especially the commissary, and recalls learning cooking, sewing, and music.
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The Mines and Strikes

Melba Kizzire and Edna Mae Plunkett recall a particularly hard year in Docena.
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Legends and Superstitions in Docena

Melba Kizzire recalls commons superstitions about the mine and local ghost stories.
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The Commissary and Entertainment

Melba Kizzire recalls the community's preference of the commissary over outside stores and describes some of the common methods of entertainment for the children.
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Church Activities

Melba Kizzire recalls the central role of the church in the lives of Docena children and cooperation among the various denominations.
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Medical Care, Politics, and Law Enforcement

Melba Kizzire discusses Docena's medical care and leaders in the community, including law enforcement.
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The Volunteer Fire Department

Melba Kizzire recalls the dangers of fires and the efforts of Docena's fire brigade.
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Before TCI

Melba Kizzire summarizes her findings about the Docena area before TCI took ownership of the mine.
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Closing Remarks

Melba Kizzire makes some closing remarks about her love for the Docena community and its hospitality.
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Transcript

Audio Information
IntervieweeMelba Wilbanks Kizzire
RepositorySamford University Oral History Collection
AccessionSUHist/TCI/003