Crosses of Iron: The Tragic Story of Dawson, New Mexico, and Its Twin Mining Disasters

This was a well written book. Some historical books can be boring but the author was able to keep you interested as if you were actually living through these two disasters. His thorough research captured personal accounts from friends and relatives promising an accurate account of these disasters. Even though I have no personal connection to these events, I highly recommend this book to anyone interested In 20th century US history.

Such an interesting and tragic story. Very well written and well researched. I highly recommend this for any history buff.

Mr. Pappas’ sensitive treatment of the Dawson mining disasters is poignant, factually accurate, and a great credit to his writing skill. His book truly paints a vivid picture of the town and the industry as it existed in the early part of the last century. With personal vignettes of the citizens of Dawson, he has provided a treasure for generations of families to come.

Nick's book is very well written and a very deep dive into what life in a coal mining town looked like in the first half of the twentieth century. Also an insight into American immigration and the harmony that can take place with many different cultures and nationalities.

Very thorough and had terrific context with what was going on with the rest of the world regarding that time period..

Much History in this Book.

We 100% enjoyed the book, I doubt many people in New Mexico have ever heard of this area.

Nick Pappas brings to life the town of Dawson and its people in this well-researched account of two coal mining disasters in the early twentieth century. He leaves us understanding the Dawson spirit lives on in the hearts and minds of those who once lived there and whose descendants continue to honor the past.

To mark the centennial of the second disaster in Dawson mine, Nick Pappas tells the tragic story with accuracy, concern and engagement. As a descendant of those who once lived there (and even in others mining towns in the U.S.) I will keep this book in a special place on the bookshelf!