Growing up in Wilkes-Barre, Penn., photojournalist Christian Abraham's interest in the region's mining history drew him to begin a long-term project about anthracite coal mining.

Almost 20 years ago, Abraham began shooting some of the long-dormant structures left behind from the industry. Since then, many have been destroyed to make way for land development and, now, few remain.

In April 2005, Abraham's interest in the industry took another leap when he was invited to visit an active mine near Hegins, Penn.

Owner David A. Lucas allowed Abraham to photograph him and his nephew Ernie hard at work in the D&D Coal Mine.

Since that first meeting with Lucas, Abraham has met other miners and document their lives as well.