COUSIN JACKS

The Advent of the Cousin Jacks in Bisbee's Mining History

Bisbee, Arizona, witnessed a transformative chapter in its mining history with the arrival of the Cousin Jacks in 1899. These Cornish miners, renowned for their unparalleled mining expertise, embarked on a journey from England to America, lured by the promise of abundant opportunities. Their arrival at the Calumet & Arizona Mining Company marked a significant turn in the region's mining narrative, particularly impacting the development of the Irish Mag Mine near Lowell, Arizona.

The Cousin Jacks: Masters of Mining Craftsmanship

The Cousin Jacks' legacy in Bisbee is not merely about their mining prowess; it's a story of innovation and endurance. These miners from Cornwall brought with them advanced techniques and tools, revolutionizing the mining industry in Bisbee. Their expertise was evident in their ability to work in challenging conditions, such as lying on their stomachs in two-foot-deep tunnels while swinging a 70lb sledgehammer overhead. This level of skill and physical endurance was unparalleled, marking them as exceptional miners of their time.

The Disruption in the Mining Valley: Phelps Dodge and the Cousin Jacks

The presence of the Cousin Jacks in Bisbee's mining valley created a notable shift in the mining environment. Their advanced techniques and efficiency effectively disrupted the status quo, presenting a threat to the job security of other miners. This disruption was particularly felt by the Phelps Dodge Corporation, a dominant force in the area's mining industry. The Cousin Jacks' cutting-edge methods and extraordinary work ethic set a new benchmark in mining, inadvertently contributing to growing tensions among the mining community.

Leading to the Bisbee Deportation of 1917

The unsettled mining environment, partly fueled by the Cousin Jacks' influence, escalated tensions, culminating in the Bisbee Deportation of 1917. This notorious event in labor history involved the illegal kidnapping and deportation of about 1,300 striking mine workers, their supporters, and bystanders. Orchestrated by Phelps Dodge to combat unionization efforts and maintain control, this act was a direct response to the perceived threat posed by organized labor, exacerbated by the Cousin Jacks' introduction of new mining standards and practices.

Bisbee Tours: A Portal to a Rich Mining Past

Today, Bisbee Tours, evolving from the #BigJeepTours, serves as a gateway to this rich and complex history. These tours offer an immersive experience into the mining era of Bisbee, highlighting the role of the Cousin Jacks and their impact on the region's mining landscape. Visitors get to explore the unique blend of cultural and historical elements that define Bisbee, including the legacy of the Cousin Jacks and the repercussions of their presence in the mining valley.

Conclusion: The Echoes of the Cousin Jacks in Bisbee's History

The story of the Cousin Jacks in Bisbee is a narrative rich with themes of resilience, innovation, and conflict. Their influence went beyond mining techniques, affecting the socio-economic and cultural dynamics of the region. The Bisbee Deportation of 1917 remains a poignant reminder of the complexities and struggles of the mining era, a period marked by significant contributions and challenges brought forth by the Cousin Jacks.