More than just the story of America's worst gold mine disaster, 47 Down is the story of immigrant miners who toiled a mile beneath the earth's surface; working in the harshest conditions for very little pay; searching for the American dream. 47 Down is the story of wives, sons, and daughters--waiting--hoping against hope that they will soon see their husbands and fathers rescued from a smoky tomb. 47 Down is the story of a time unlike any other in American history--the Roaring Twenties--in a place unlike any other--a cloistered little mining town in California's Mother Lode region. 47 Down is the story of the changing face of America's news gatherers--and the emergence of the "woman reporter." 47 Down is the story of a forgotten historical event that held the attention of the nation for 22 days during the summer of 1922, and changed forever, a town, an industry, and a way of life.