What coal burns at the lowest temperature and generates the

most smoke? Odd question, I know, but I am trying to replicate the smoke from a coal-fired ship boiler in the 1860's. Most paintings of the time show the ships smoking quite a bit, even though I understand that anthracite is supposed to burn without much smoke. I am also looking for small quantities of "smokey coal". Thanks for any help.

I believe you'll find they burned bituminous coal, not sure, but that's my thought. That & a dime of course, gets you exactly squat in this day & age.

Thanks, is that available someplace in small quantities?

I know that anthracite was highly sought after, in fairly short supply and apparently was reserved for the more important warships and blockade runners. Sailors would somtimes judge their opponents by the color of their smoke.

Where are you from? There are bit guys that will be able to direct you once that is known.

Thanks, I'm in central MA.

Sorry about that-- Be patient GR, like I said, there are people here that use bit, I just don't happen to be one of them I would GOOGLE it for your area OR--top right on this page--search box--punch in bit & see what comes up

Around the 1900's the Navy would burn nothing but Pocahontas coal. It was high btu, low volatiles and low smoke. It is mostly mined out but it is still available. Penn Coal sells it in truckload quantities (bagged or bulk). It costs more now than anthracite but is used alot but the live steam and blacksmith hobby.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pocahontas_Coalfield

The Pocahontas may burn too cleanly for you. Look for cheap high volatile coal. The more volatiles, the more smoke.

You need a high volatile bituminous coal. check your pm's