Danea Males
The Last Days - Treece, Kansas
Weeping Willow, 2011, The Last Days - Treece, Kansas. A dwindeing community in rural, southeastern Kansas that sits atop a labyrinth of abandoned mines, was abuzz with mining activities that supported the war effort during both World Wars by making ammunition. On the surface, 70 million tons of waste tailings and 36 million tons of mill sand and sludge sit like small mountains that are both hazardous and beautiful. As the heavy metals find their way into the topsoil and water supply, residents struggle with developing health problems. Cancer and lead poisoning are forcing the community to leave their homes. The slogan “Miners Do Our Part For Victory” has given way to “We Survived The Lead.”
