The Topeka state journal. [volume] (Topeka, Kansas) 1892-1980, 1922-11-22
Threat of Price Hike Failed to
Develop in Midwest.
Credit for Figures Given to
Publicity and Weather.
is OFF ST TO 81 IN KANSAS
in This State Is Re-
ported To Be Normal.
Car Shortage Has Failed to Az
feet the Coal Supply.
fBr the Associated Press.l

Chicago, Nov. 22.-Expectation that
some coal operators would recoup
their losses in the recent coal strike
thru increased prices-a belief given
wide publicity at the end of the strike
when one or two operators were
quoted to that effect has failed to
materialize, according to a survey of
fuel conditions based on statements of
state fuel and railway commission Of
ficiaIs and coal operators in middle
western states.
The wide publicity combined with
an unusually warm autumn, discour-
aged buying by domestic consumers
to such an extent that there has been
a noticeable drop in prices in many
states. This is particularly noted in
those coal producing areas where
freight rates for short hauls are not a
major factor in setting their retail
prices
Typical of the general trend, accord
ing to Robert Medill, state fuel ad-
ministrator, of Illinois, are prices at
the central Illinois mines. Immedi-
ateIy after the strike the operators
quoted screenings their lowest grade
coal, at from S3.25 to 1915 at the. pit
mouth. Last week Central Illinois
screenings were offered as low as
$50, and in spite of the reductions
the mines are unable to book more
than so per cent of the production.
Lower in Kansas.
In Kansas, dealers are selling coal
at one to two dollars under last years
prices. Missouri and other states re-
port lower prices.
In Illinois, considerable coal is re-
ported on the tracks, while the miners
are working less than half the week.
There is some shortage of cars in the
southern fields. Prices are reported
dropping in the central districts.
The situation in Kansas is reported
to be practically normal, with the re-
tailers able to supply all customers.
Prices at the mines are the same as a
one to two dollars under last years
prices.
Nebraska Situation Easy.
Officials describe the Nebraska sit
uation as easy, and report there is no
danger of suffering unless rail trans
portation breaks down.
Consumers in Missouri are reported
as having sixty-day supply on hand
ana are buying in small quantities.
lower prices. There is plenty
of coal on hand, according to reports,
aItho the mines have been working
only five days a week in some districts.
A shortage of eastern and Arkansas
coal is reported. Mild weather is cut
ting the demand.
A shortage of cars is reported from
Kentucky, but otherwise the situation
is not serious. The mild autumn has
increased the reserve supplies and the
return Oh cars 10 the L. q N IS eA-
pected to remove eastern field car
difficulties.
Normal in Oklahoma.
The supply of coal on hand in Okla
homa is said to be normal for this
season, altho some mines are idle be-
cause of lack of orders or shortage
of cars. Officials say that all con-
sumers can be supplied.
The use of natural gas, oil and lig-
mite for heating purposes coupled with
warm weather has decreased the de-
mand in Texas, it is reported
There is plenty of coal on hand, but
the state railroad commission antici-
pates a shortage later in the winter.