•These non-union coal companies have
succeeded thus far In keeping the
miners’ union from obtaining a firm
'foothold in Alabama, because they
realize that once the union comes in
it. will improve the working condi
tions of these unfortunate mine
workers. They have utilized the
services o'f gunmen, thugs, armed
guards and eyei\ the Alabama state
militia in their campaign against the
United Mine Workers of America.”
Brandon Seeks Way Out
Of Leasing Problem
STATE
CAPITAL IICRKAI' ]
THE A(iK-HEKALl) /
Montgomery, Ain.. July £2 J
Governor Brandon is looking for a
way out. He is making a study of
suggestions regarding the solution
of the convict lease problem. It be
came known Sunday that the gover
nor has realized that some definite
.*-160 must be taken by the legisla
ture for the ending of the system
and ha.« requested his advisers to
work with him in devising a plan.
Although the information, which
came from an authoritative source,
did not indicate what plan is being
given most serious consideration, it
was thought that the governor may
propose the leasing of a cogl mine
and the working of state convicts
there under the complete supervision
of state employes and without the
presence of any person employed by
the coal interests.
This plan has been worked in the
past. Governor Emmet O’Neal took
over a mine in Jefferson county under
contract and worked state convicts
under state supervision. Ife deliv
ered the coal mined to the owner of
the mine at the mouth of the mine
under an agreement as to the rate
to be paid the state for each ton of
coal mined. This system was aban
uoned by Gov. Charles Henderson.
