Big Stone Gap is known as the "Gateway to the Coalfields."   Coal and iron ore brought the early investors into the area and is still a main industry today.  The statue recognizes these hardy individuals.  Miner's Park is owned and maintained by the Big Stone Gap Parks & Recreation Department.  The park was originally the site of Kelly Drug store and the elegant Monte Vista Hotel.   Portions of their mosaic tiled entrances can still be seen at this park.