Cincinnati Mine Disaster – 100 Years Ago Today. Daily Republican Article.

One hundred years ago today a terrible explosion occurred at the Cincinnati Mine in Courtney about one mile down river from Monongahela PA. Ninety-seven men died and many were injured. Below is an account of the accident which appeared in the April 23, 2013, edition of Monongahela’s newspaper, the Daily Republican.

EXPLOSION AT THE CINCINNATI MINE TODAY

A terrific explosion occurred in the Cincinnati mine about one o’clock today and it is feared many men are killed. The

explosion occurred on the main entry between the pit mouth and the Mingo school house. About 250 men are at work and grave fears are entertained for the safety of many. A call for assistance has been sent to many of the mines in this vicinity and they are hurrying to the scene of the explosion. A report says that six men escaped through the opening near the Mingo school house. One dead man has been brought to the pit mouth and the rescue party who are now at work have discovered many other bodies. The fans have been started, and the relief parties have been able to get as far as the parting.

George Cursan, who lives in Lin Alley, was one of the men who escaped. He states that his father also is safe, but he thinks Merle Brewer a boarder is among the dead. George Herron who boards with Mrs. Hastings in Railroad Street is also thought to be among the dead. He says that about twenty men escaped with him, and that the force of the explosion was terrible. The interior of the workings are wrecked, and of rescue will be retarded.

Large crowds are congregated about the mine openings, and many pathetic scenes are in evidence, many women and children being among the number who are anxious about a loved one who is probably lost. Many went from this city in automobiles, and other conveyances.

The explosion seems to have occurred on the main entry, and it may be that it will not extend to the workings. This however, is only conjectured as it is impossible at this time to get any definite information.

You can tell that when the article was written many details were still unknown. I wonder if the article was rushed to press — note the poor typesetting of the headline. I will publish other articles which appeared in the Daily Republican over the next several days so check back tomorrow for more!