— John C. Sawhill 
Huber coal breaker in Ashley, PA - Demolished
Martin Tower - 2015
Martin Tower - 2019
Martin Tower - 2020 Jeremy Blakeslee is a photographer, urban archeologist, and preservationist who specializes in the documentation and preservation of historical industrial architecture, machinery, infrastructure, and mines. A graduate of the School of Visual Arts in New York City, he currently bases out of Los Angeles, California and photographs throughout the United States. His studio's work supports numerous historical preservation societies, organizations, and museums.
All photographs are shot on film, primarily using 6x6 negative or 4x5 formats for archival purposes.
A word about abandoned mines:
Many of the environments presented on this website are perilous and were only accessed with a thorough understanding of the hazards present and the necessary precautions to mitigate them. This often involves engaging the expertise of professional miners or underground search and rescue teams who possess a comprehensive understanding of the abandoned workings, airflow patterns, and specific hazards inherent to a particular location. Never enter an abandoned mine without the appropriate training, people, equipment, and protocols in place.It is important to note that mines were not constructed with longevity in mind and many that were built over a century ago now present a plethora of hazards such as unstable rock formations, deteriorated timber supports and ladders, unexpected drops, and the potential for sudden roof collapses. Additionally, the presence of invisible and flammable gasses or lack of oxygen, heighten the risk of injury or death. In coal mines, the presence of methane and black damp must be taken into careful consideration. Furthermore, barometric changes above ground can cause shifts in airflow underground which can trap individuals in areas with poor air quality, making escape impossible.
