On Aug. 1, 1921, “Smilin” Sid Hatfield, the Sheriff of Matewan, and Ed Chambers, an organizer with the United Mine Workers of America, were gunned down by Baldwin-Felt Detectives on the steps of the McDowell County Courthouse in Welch, right in front of their wives. Prosecutors indicted three detectives — C.E. Lively, George “Buster” Pence and William Salters for Chamber’s murder, but all three were found not guilty.

Come see this FREE short reenactment and learn how this event helped spark the Battle of Blair Mountain. No tickets are necessary. Just arrive at the steps of the Courthouse a few minutes before noon. For more information, contact: Michelle Whittaker, randyswife40@gmail.com, 304-436-2609

This is a great warm-up for the dramatic presentation of The Terror of the Tug later in the evening on September 4th (see a separate listing with location and ticket information).

Make a day of it in Welch on September 4th. Check our Calendar of Events:

• 12:00 – 1:00 PM: Reenactment of the murder of Sid Hatfield and Ed Chambers (FREE)

• 1:30 – 4:00 PM: Screening of the movie Matewan ($5.00)

• 5:00 – 7:00 PM: Have dinner on your own at one of Welch’s great restaurants

  • The Sterling Drive-In

  • 37Coffee (Brazilian meals, pastries, and coffee)

• 8:00 – 10:00 PM: The Terror of the Tug Performance ($10.00/$8.00)

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CITY OF WELCH IN MCDOWELL COUNTY: www.coaltownusa.com