Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 41, Number 100, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 3 September 1909 — Fireman Almost Loses Life At the Monon Coal Chutes. [ARTICLE]

Fireman Almost Loses Life At the Monon Coal Chutes.

Monon News. Fireman W. M. Craft met with a thrilling experience at tfye coal chute Saturday evening which came near ending his earthly career. He was about to take his first trip as regular fireman on trains 56 and 57 between Lafayette and Michigan City with Engineer Pat Shayne. The engine had run down to take coal and as it rushed in from the chute, Craft went with it and was covered up so that when the engineer discovered him nothing was visible but his cap. Shayne made a quick run for the depot and had Dr. Ray Clayton in waiting ready to do the surgical act. Willing hands were soon digging out the imprisoned fireman, who was firmly wedged against the tender gate. When liberated he brushed the coal dust off and addressing the Dr. said: “I don’t need your services,” and added, “I’ll make my run,” which he did. His escape from serious injury is attributed to the fact that when the coal piled up about him he was in an erect posture.