On Friday, November 24, 2000 the Benham Garden Club held the dedication for Memorial Satue of "Today's Coal Miners!" About one-hundred people attended the two hour celebration. Under the leadership of the Benham Garden Club, with the help of many from the Tri-Cities, Harlan County and beyond, this 6' 8" statue was purchased through a dedicated community fund raising effort. We dedicated this statue in honor of the hard work and sacrifices made by all of the working men and women coal miners. They have played a central role in building of our community and nation.

As the plaque at the base of the statue says In loving memory and tribute to all those who have labored in the coal mining industry. Sculptor Gary Prazen built the statue, which is the only one of its kind in Kentucky. The Benham Garden Club raised more than $30,000 for this 6' 8" bronze statue in recognition of the work of our coal miners. Club member Ruby Sweet said. ``It's a great tribute to the men. They have given a lot.''