Democratic Sentinel, Volume 18, Number 46, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 30 November 1894 — MEET DEATH IN A MINE. [ARTICLE]

MEET DEATH IN A MINE.

Seven Mon Killed and Many Injured by an Explosion at Colliers, W. Va. A most appalling mine disaster occurred Tuesday shortly after noon at the Blanch coal mines on the Panhandle Railroad at Collier’s Station, W. Va. A new miner, an Italian, put off an overcharge blast, which ignited th® coal dust in the mine and a fearful explosion followed, carrying death and destruction in its path. There were forty-eight men in the mine at the time and seven are known to be dead. After the explosion there was a terrific whirlwind in the mine, carrying everything before it. Miners Donnelly and Roony were in the mine some distance from and going toward the mouth. The force of the explosion drove them nearly 100 yards out of the mouth of the mine and landed Roony on the railroad track, killing him instantly. Donnelly landed in a gully, striking his head against a post. His brains were dashed out and scattered for yards around. His wife was the first to find him, and she swooned away. There is little hope that she will recover. The news of the disaster quickly spread, and in a few moments hundreds of people were crowded about the mouth of the mine. Many heart-rendering scenes were enacted. The wives and children of the miner), were frantic and strong men were overcome. In a short time a rescuing party was organized and went into the mines after the bodies. Prosecuting Attorney Colton mid Coroner Walkinskaw of Wellsburg were soon on the ground and took charge of the bodies. They will conduct a rigid investigation. This is the second accident of the kind which has occurred at this mine. Just two years ago a similar explosion occurred, in which three were killed and several injured. The miners charge that the accident was due to the inexperience of the. Italian miners and declare they will not work with them any more.