Interview with Bruce Stephens, Jr., June 1, 1989

Interview Summary

Bruce Stephens is considered an expert on coal leases, deeds, and the various legal aspects of buying and selling coal properties. In these interviews, he discusses the broad form deed and other verbal and/or written agreements regarding coal land. Stephens cites a large number of cases in order to place the long form deed in its historic context. He discusses the procedures by which John J.C. Mayo secured properties, and presents his views on the controversial Widow Combs situation which took place in 1965. He provides his opinion on various leaders of the coal industry and public officials who deal with the coal industry. He specifies the contributions the Kentucky River Coal Company made to the community. Stephens describes the situations which led to the unionization of the eastern Kentucky coal fields and whether the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) has a role in the future of the coal in industry in eastern Kentucky

Interview Keyword

Coal Operators

Interview LC Subject

Appalachian Region Coal miners Coal mines and mining--Appalachian Region Stephens, Bruce Stephens, Bruce--Interviews

Interview Rights

All rights to the interviews, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries.

Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.