In 1955, Logan County surpassed which county as the leading coal-producing county in the nation?

Logan County became the leading coal-producing county in the nation in 1955 by surpassing McDowell County, which was historically known for its extensive coal resources and production. During that period, Logan County experienced a boom in coal mining, driven by the high demand for coal in various industries, particularly with the post-war economic expansion in the United States. This shift not only reflected changes in production capacity and mining technology but also the geographical distribution of coal reserves and mining operations in West Virginia at that time.

The rise of Logan County's coal production was significant in the context of West Virginia's coal industry, illustrating the dynamic nature of coal as a key energy source and its impact on local economies. Other counties mentioned, such as Pocahontas, Roane, and Barbour, were known for their coal mining activities, but none matched the production levels reached by Logan County in the mid-1950s, particularly in that year. This historical context highlights the prominence of Logan County in the national coal industry during this specific time frame.