The legendary AM 50 roadheader is being assembled at František
It is a busy day at the construction site at the base of the František Tower. Today is Monday, July 27, 2026, and a heavy crane has arrived. The reason? Today marks the start of assembly of the iconic AM 50 roadheader (mining harvester), which will become one of the main landmarks of the emerging outdoor mining museum.
However, the story of this steel colossus is not just about heavy machinery. Above all, it is about the incredible solidarity, heart, and patriotism of the people from this region.
Local Miners Back in Action
Assembling such a complex and massive machine would not be possible without the help of the most qualified people—local residents and former miners. They spent a substantial part of their lives in the mines, know machines like the AM 50 down to the last nut, and have them literally in their blood.
Last week, they already did a huge amount of painstaking prep work:
- Inspection and Maintenance: They thoroughly checked all bolts and individual parts.
- Preservation and Lubrication: They repaired and greased the threads to ensure the heavy sections fit together perfectly during today’s crane assembly.
A Story Written by the People Themselves
Moments like these fully demonstrate the true value of the František project. This is not a sterile museum setup designed behind a desk. Those who actively wrote the shaft’s raw history are taking part in its restoration.
Thus, the AM 50 roadheader will not be just an impersonal piece of iron on display. It will stand as a living monument to human labor, craftsmanship, and pride—leaving an imprint made directly by the people of Horní Suchá and the surrounding area.
Work at František is running at full speed. Follow our website and social media—we will soon show you the fully assembled AM 50 in all its glory!
The project is co-financed by the European Union under the Interreg Czechia – Poland program.
