The Molly Maguires

In a Pennsylvania coalmine, miners work under harsh conditions in 1876. With hand-dug coal and makeshift pit props, the environment is dirty, cramped, and significantly unhealthy, reflecting the grueling nature of their labor.

After planting charges, all miners leave the pit, resulting in a catastrophic explosion that destroys the mine. This event marks a significant turning point, prompting an investigation into the workplace conditions and safety issues.

Detective James McParlan arrives in the local town by train in the late evening to investigate the explosion. He visits a bar, attempting to assimilate by pretending to seek work in the mines.

While playing cards, McParlan's identity is questioned, leading to accusations of cheating. The fight that ensues attracts police attention, resulting in his arrest; however, this is a strategic move as they recognize his true purpose.

After being released, McParlan rents a room under the alias McKenna. He expresses his intention to find work at the coalmine and receives instructions to return the next morning.

McParlan starts his arduous work in the mine and experiences the back-breaking nature of coal mining. At the end of the week, he receives an appallingly low paycheck due to numerous deductions, highlighting the exploitation of miners.

While enjoying a pint at the local bar, McParlan is observed by Kehoe, who begins to take an interest in him. Meanwhile, the priest publicly condemns the earlier actions of the Molly Maguires, whom McParlan is secretly investigating.

Kehoe and his associates initiate a ritual to induct McParlan into the Ancient Order of Hibernian. Though worried about the implications, he complies, and the next day he and Mary go to the city, giving him a chance to meet with Captain Davies.

An explosion orchestrated by the Molly Maguires derails a train of coal wagons. Following this, while attempting to take out a superintendent, McParlan and Kehoe are ambushed by the police leading to the arrest of eight miners with alibis.

Amidst the chaos of their lives, McParlan and Mary fall in love. They share a romantic picnic where they discuss their morals, showcasing the bond forming despite the dark circumstances surrounding them.

In a shocking act of violence, Frazier and his wife are murdered by the police in retaliation. This brutal act leads to further revelations about the dangers faced by the miners and the extent of their conflicts.

During Mr. Raines' wake, members of the Molly Maguires convene and plot further actions against the mining company. In a daring move, they break into the company store not just to steal a suit for Mr. Raines, but to create chaos.

At the trial, the secret of McParlan's identity is unveiled, shocking Mary and revealing the depths of his deception. The betrayal fractures their relationship, as Mary struggles with the implications of his actions.

As his associates are sentenced to death, Kehoe confronts McParlan in prison. Their exchange reveals the intense emotional conflict as Kehoe grapples with feelings of betrayal while McParlan seeks forgiveness.

In their final conversation, Kehoe expresses that no punishment can redeem McParlan's perceived treachery. McParlan's retort hints at a sense of shared fate, culminating in a dramatic end to their story.