The aggressive blocking of the mine sites, as well as other immediate actions by the Italian strikers in the Boomer area were labeled riots by Fayette County newspapers. In some ways these events do seem similar to spontaneous peasant revolts that were common in Italy and other parts of Europe.

On the other hand, one perceptive witness had a different take on things. “Everyone called it a riot; and even though it looked like all hell had broken loose, I think there was more to it,” mused life-long Boomer resident Dave Tamplin. In fact, there did appear to have been some well-thought out strategies involved. ..a contingent of Italians proceeded to gain control of the vital rail line in the community and, in the process, drove off a crew of workers who were doing minor repairs on some rolling stock... The next day, the Italians decided to demonstrate their strength to management; in so doing, they tapped tactics they had doubtlessly used in the Old Country. (Fones-Wolf Transnational [Here Come])

We’ll pick the illustrated history of the Boomer Rebellion up with our next post soon!

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