The coal mining industry has been a part of the history and growth of Paris, Arkansas almost from its beginnings. At first, coal was only for local use. With the coming of the railroads, coal mining became a major industry. The first coal mine near Paris was located near Short Mountain Creek in 1880. This mine was opened by George Lumpp, Matt O’Bar, and Angelo Digiacomo. They sold coal at seventy-five cents a bushel. The mines were opened for the market in 1881, and the first slope was opened in 1886. George Lumpp and Angelo Digiacomo were the first men to go under ground for coal. This mine was called the “Lone Star”.