An intermission was had at the Elks Ball and a “dainty lunch” was served from the club room kitchens. (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
2:30 am
In Mannington:
The festivities closed at the Elks Ball with “Home Sweet Home”. (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
During the early hours
At the Darr Mines in PA:
“But, as we stand close up to the pit mouth, we see coming up the black slope a dark, waving mass. They are bringing out a body. Back of us, behind the police lines, are the women, heaven help them! The rescuers, the police guards, the mine officials, take no notice of them—the women whose lives and hope are buried in the depths beneath their feet.” (TSP 12.27.07 pg. 4)
“I glance back at that line of faces, lighted fitfully by the torches imbedded into the hillside. No writer can describe, nor could any artist depict the grief, the anguish, the frenzy, the hopelessness, the dread that stared out at him from face and eyes that were fixed on that yawning, black pit mouth.” (TSP 12.27.07 pg. 4)
“Slowly the dark, moving mass from down the mine comes into view. Three men are carrying their inert burden. Then from back of those police ropes rise wails and shrieks and cries of despair. It is so weird, so full of the agony of excruciating human suffering that men hardened to the horrors of the mines looked at one another with frightened eyes.” (TSP 12.27.07 pg. 4)
“A woman, crying aloud, stood again the rope. She asked no other privilege than to shed tears for him who had kissed her that morning. ‘Here, what the hell are you bawling about?’ demanded a tin badged policeman. ‘For my man,’ she sobbed, in her grief. ‘Well, get to hell out of here. Go home and do your blubbering,’ he growled.” (TSP 12.27.07 pg. 4)
“Like a fury she sprang at him. Her language of the eloquence of superlative profanity. She was a tigress and it required several men to drag her away from the brutal policeman. ‘And she is one of the most modest, refined women in this locality,’ said Father Carroll, the miners’ friend. ‘She does not know what she is saying,’ he added, as sympathizing friends led the half-crazed woman away from the pit mouth.” (TSP 12.27.07 pg. 4)
Morning
In Tomsonville, Conn.:
Theodore Krellman’s little son, who had been missing, is found in a pond near his home by a searching party. “He was sent on an errand by his mother yesterday and disappeared. The party searched all night.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1 ) (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“It is believed the boy tried to cross the rotten ice which broke and he was drowned.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
In Greensburg, PA:
The three month old baby of Mr. and Mrs. Andy Dudeck is cremated in a house fire. “The origin of the fire is a mystery.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 4)
“Dudeck was at church and his wife at a neighbor’s house. The child was asleep in an upstairs room.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 4)
“Mrs. Dudeck with difficulty was restrained from rushing into the burning building to rescue her baby.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 4)
In Gray’s Flats, WV:
Willie Upton and the 6 year old son of J. Sanford Upton are out hunting rabbits. Willie placed the boy “in a safe place and directed him to stay there while he went out to chase the game.” Willie had been gone “only a few minutes when the rabbit popped up and started off. When Upton thought the rabbit had passed the direct line between him and his boy he fired. The boy had changed his position and was in range of the gun and received part of the discharge.” (FWV 12.28.07 pg. 1)
“Seven shot entered his legs, one shot entered his abdomen and one shot buried itself in his face.” (FWV 12.28.07 pg. 1)
“Drs. Peters and Triplett were summoned and rendered surgical aid. It is not thought that the shooting will prove fatal.” (FWV 12.28.07 pg. 1)
In Fairmont:
The Fairmont West Virginian reports the weather will be: rain, turning to snow tonight. Saturday snow and colder (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
General Manager Bush, of the Western Maryland Railroad Company, comes to the city in his private car, which was attached to train No. 17. Mr. Bush spent the day examining Monongah mines No. 6 & 8. (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
152 bodies have been removed from Darr mine. 41 since yesterday afternoon. Workers report the air is now good all through the mine and expect to be able to get out all the dead by tomorrow afternoon. (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“Another woman refused to leave. ‘I will stay till my man is brought out,’ she asserted. ‘You won’t bury him in the manure heap, like they did the men of Naomia mine,’ she screamed when the guards forced her to leave.” (TSP 12.27.07 pg. 4)
“The reference to the Naomia mine was occasioned by the finding of a miner’s body in the refuse back of the stable, where it is claimed he had been thrown by a mine boss to save the cost of his burial. At any rate, it was in that horrible place his aged wife found him.” (TSP 12.27.07 pg. 4)
At some point during the morning
In Monongah:
Jaques Caffauel and M. Dumaine investigate mines with Chief Mine Inspector J.W. Paul, Clarence Hall, and Dr. W.O. Snelling. “The French experts will likely be able to form some conclusions after today’s work.” (FWV 12.27.07 – pg. 8)
At the Darr mines in PA:
“With the recovery of Steve Mihaley yesterday, the last of three brothers who met death in the mine was found. The others are Joseph, 26 years old, and Alexander, 20 years old. The three bodies were shipped to McKeesport today for burial. Steve Mihaley’s widow is in a serious condition, and she was not permitted to accompany her husband’s remains.” (PDP 12.28.07 pg. 3)
“Henry E Adams, of Pittsburgh, a brother of Clark Adams, the wealthy young man who met death in the mines, arrived at Jacob’s Creek this morning, accompanied by John Frick, of Shamokin, who married a sister of the dead young man.” (PDP 12.28.07 pg. 3)
“Adams had not seen his prodigal brother in years, and after viewing the blackened corpse said he could not have identified it. The body was buried this afternoon in Olive Branch cemetery.” (PDP 12.28.07 pg. 3)
“Bodies taken from the mine now number 124, and six more, which have been located, will be brought out before morning.” (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“The entire mine has now been searched with the exception of Entry No. 27 where it is believed 100 bodies will be found. Debris about this entry is being removed as rapidly as possible and it is expected to gain ingress tomorrow morning.” (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“The work of getting the bodies, it is believed will be much easier from this time forth. The rescue parties are now in that section of the mine where they expect to find many under the few falls which have occurred at the time of the explosion. A dozen may have been caught in this manner, but this estimate is believed to be high.” (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“Each rescue party is being accompanied by one or two State inspectors and their recommendations are being followed to the letter. Every precaution is being taken to protect the men engaged in rescue work.” (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
General Manager G.W. Schleudergerg, of the Pittsburgh Coal Company, is called to his home in Pittsburgh by the sudden death of his wife. “Mr. Schleuderberg assumes charge of the Darr mine the day following the explosion and had no intimation of his wife’s illness. He went to Pittsburgh on a special train sent out over the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie railroad.” (PDP 12.28.07 pg. 3)
In Fairmont:
First Baptist Church holds a social; “…a tree will be a feature of the entertainment. An impromptu program will be rendered and treat distributed.” (FWV 12.23.07 pg. 1)
Building “F” is the location of First baptist on the 1897 map.
Justice E.S. Amos, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Tusca Morris and a newspaper representative visit Elijah Hannon, the man who was shot in the bowels at Grey’s Flats Tuesday night, in the hospital. (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“Authorities here thought that this would prove to be another case of homicide instead of suicide and for that reason the officers called on Hannon.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“The only man that was with him at the time was Dennis Gilmore and he too says the shooting was accidental.” FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
As Amos, Morris and the reporter were coming up First Street on their way to the hospital “they met two colored men who proved to be Dennis Gilmore and C.H. Thackson. They were accosted by Attorney Tusca Morris who asked them if they were from Gray’s Flats. They stated that they were and that they had accompanied Hannon to the hospital. The men told of the shooting.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
Gilmore explained of the incident a few nights prior when Hannon had taken a few moments to admire Gilmore’s gun and accidentally discharged it as he was sliding it back across the table to Gilmore. “Both men said that the shot was accidental as the men were on most friendly terms.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
Hannon was interviewed next. “Hannon’s statement did not vary from the story of the other two men. He said that they were on friendly terms and that his presence in the hospital and his physical condition was due to his own carelessness in handling a dangerous weapon.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“The assistant prosecuting attorney and justice left the institution thoroughly convinced that it was not a deed executed with malice forethought but the result of recklessness.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“Hannon’s condition is serious but it is not thought that the wounds are necessarily fatal.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
8:00 pm
In Fairmont:
2nd of series of 3 basketball games between F.H.S and F.H.S. Alumni played at High School Gym (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 5)
9:30 pm
In Mannington:
The Mannington Elks host a Ball. “All Mannington’s dancing set were in attendance and a large number of out of town people participated in the festivities.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“The ball opened with more than 40 dancing couples on the floor, while the card tables in the club rooms afforded amusement to a goodly number in addition” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“Mannington’s favorite orchestra, Vincent’s from Grafton, furnished music for the occasion and more than sustained their high reputation in this city, their music being conceded to be the best ever played in this city. The orchestra consisted of 8 pieces.” (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 1)
R.L. Fleming, who was one of the rescuing party at Monongah, is confined to his home by an injured knee, having fallen across a loose wire in the mine. (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 5)
In Monongah:
“Many letters bearing Christmas greetings were received by the leaders in the relief work at Monongah.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
“Mrs. Ruckman has received several dozen letters and two from Michigan expressed much sympathy for little Faustina Davia, the ten-year-old girl who is turned housekeeper and guardian, since the loss of her father in the mines. Mrs. Ruckman was requested to turn the enclosures over to this little girl of whom the parties had read in the newspapers, provided others were not more in need of the relief.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
Faustina Davia
“Mrs. Ruckman said there are even worse cases, one of which she cited in Mrs. Kate Trode, an American woman, whose husband was lost in the mines and not yet found or if found has been buried with the unidentified. She has four little children, the oldest six years, the youngest a month old, and she has nothing at all to go on.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
At the mines in Monongah:
“M. Jaques Caffauel and M. Dumaine the French experts who are here examining the Monongah mines Nos 6 and 8, commenced their work…Assistant General Manager Frank Haas of the Fairmont Coal Company, and Chief Engineer John Gordon Smith, were with them and aided them in every possible way. “ (FWV 12.27.07 – pg. 8)
‘The main heading of No 8 was explored and places where gas would most likely accumulate were free from the substance.” (FWV 12.27.07 – pg. 8)
“Mr. Caffauel who made a thorough examination of the mine at Courriers where 1,100 miners met death on March 10, 1906, said that in all probability the explosion…was due to dust.” (FWV 12.27.07 – pg. 8)
In Grafton:
2 foreign miners are killed by a B&O freight train at Newburg. The men worked in the mine near Newburg and were walking along the track to their homes after work. They were run down by the train which came up behind them and which for some reason they failed to hear. The engine and several cars passed over the men before the train was brought to a stop and both bodies were ground to pieces when picked up by the crew. (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 5)
At the Darr mines in PA:
“The bodies of three McKeesport men who met death in the Darr mine disaster will be shipped to McKeesport for interment today or tomorrow. The names of the men have not been given. They are related to John Totli, of Pittsburgh, who, with Rev. Father Kalmon Kovatz of McKeesport, identified the bodies.” (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“A jury was sworn in today by Coroner C.A. Wynn to conduct an inquest into the disaster. It is composed of the following well-known residents of Smithton: (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
“The supposition that Clark Adams, the wealthy prodigal of Shamokin, was in the mine, has been proved to be correct by the finding of his dead body. Adams had wealthy parents but worked as a day laborer. There existed a strong friendship between him and Superintendent Kelvington. Word has been sent to his home in Shamokin.” (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
A shift of recovery workers enters the mine to resume the task of removing bodies. In number 29 entry, a distance of two miles in the mine they came across numerous bodies. Pit cars were blown to pieces and heavy timbers and iron were scattered about in the entry in confusion. The rescue party believed the explosion must have occurred at this particular entry. These corpses were decomposed and terribly mutilated, indicating that the seat of the explosion must have been somewhere in this vicinity. (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1) (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
Morning
In New York:
A 6-story tenement house in the Bronx catches fire. Jeremiah Collins and his wife made “heroic efforts” to rescue an infant from the fire. “They were taken to Harlem hospital at the point of death, while their sacrifices will probably prove in vain as the baby girl, a year old, is reported dying.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1)
In Fairmont:
The Fairmont West Virginian reports the weather as being: Fair tonight except rain along Lake Erie. (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1)
In Monongah:
“Mayor Moore was at his office early this morning, but he had not the usual run of business after Christmas, only one or two mild offenders were taken in during the day. He said that Christmas was more like a Sunday in Monongah than any other day.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
“The only trouble he has had with lawlessness since the mine disaster has been with tramps and people who come into Monongah and the home people have all been very orderly.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
“He reports…that plenty of everything was provided for the people of his town for the Christmas festivities.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
“Billy Herman [William Elmer Harriman], a bright eyed boy of 12, whose father was John Herman [Harriman], the boss driver, whose body was one of the first to be moved from number six was asked this morning, ‘How was Christmas?’ He replied, “All right, we had everything we needed, three chickens, one cooked for yesterday, one for today, and one for tomorrow, a box and a basket all filled with Christmas presents, toys, fruits, candies, etc. with three automobiles. We never had so much before.’ Billy’s mother has three other children to care for, two little girls and a baby boy.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1) (Shay)
“It was ascertained that it has been the custom to have a Christmas tree at this home each Christmas, but this formality was dispensed with this year. The hand that had cut the cedar from the hillside for the many previous Christmases was no longer able to perform this duty for his little ones, but was folded across his peaceful breast in the new village of the dead where he lies with the hundreds of his fellow laborers.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1)
At the mines:
The work of straightening up mine No 6 is still progressing. (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
The head of an unknown man is found in a pool of water in No. 6. “The head was severed from the body close to the base of the skull as evenly as if cut with a huge knife. The top of the skull and brain are missing and the remainder is mashed into an unrecognizable mass of putrid flesh, the only evidence showing that the flesh is human is the mouth and one ear. The trunk of the body may yet be found or it may have been buried heretofore as one of the many unidentified persons, some of whom were beheaded.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
9:00 am
At Darr mine in PA:
“None of the works about Jacobs Creek are in operation. An employee at Banning No. 1 remarked that if they resumed, only a few would report for work outside and none inside.” (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
CDT 12.26.07 – pg 1
Pit cars brought out of the mine contain 32 bodies. 105 have so far been recovered with 13 additional identifications made this morning. “Numerous bodies were found in entry 29, which it is believed was the scene of the explosion.” The Coroner’s jury will be selected later today for the inquest. (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1) (CDT 12.26.07 pg. 1)
11:00 am
At Darr mine in PA:
“Three State constables are believed to be sufficient to cope with the situation now. The other three have been recalled.” (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
108 bodies have been brought out. 36 of those brought out today alone. (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“The rescuers report that the drivers were found 50 yards from their horses. Nothing remains of the wagons but their trucks. All the relief party found of a trapper boy was his headless trunk, attached to which was one leg.” (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
At some point during the morning
At the Darr mines in PA:
“Salvatore Exposito, who came last Monday from Butler county in quest of the body of his brother Luigi, narrowly escaped taking back the wrong corpse. Salvatore claimed body No. 27, because it looked like Luigi, but [today] a fellow driver identified body No. 53 as that of Luigi Exposito. He described the clothing worn by the latter to the satisfaction of Coroner Wynn, who rectified the error.” (PDP 12.27.07 pg. 1)
In Monongah:
“The busiest place in Monongah today is the room where the clothing has been stored for those who need it. This store room is in charge of Mrs. J.W. Orr and Mrs. R.U. Myers, who perform the same services as the sales ladies in the department stores, that is in selecting the kind and size of clothing needed. The rush to a bargain counter during the Christmas rush in shopping is not to be compared with the eager way the wearing apparel is being grabbed up at Monongah.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
“As an evidence of the demand this note was received at the storage room this morning: ‘Please send me a black dress and two or three calico dresses and some white flannel and some muslin and I want a black hat and a black coat, size 35, pair of shoes, size 4 ½, and some under clothes, send me some underskirts. Yours Truly, Gettie Watkins.’” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
“This is only one of a hundred such appeals as are made by letter and in person. The demand for black is very great. Most all the women on the streets are in mourning and in this way the widows can be distinguished from the rest of the people. Many of the foreign women have their heads wrapped in black shawls and wear fascinators or silk or sateen sashes.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
Article from the Spokane Press, March 30, 1908 by Dorothy Dale about the “worst” spring fashion fad. “Directions: Lay a turkey platter on the lid of a pasteboard suit box; that is, if it has oval ends and can accommodate a 25 pound bird.”
In New York City:
“With half a thousand people watching him, Ernest G. Stedman, a lawyer, jumped in front of a subway train at Fourteenth street today and was ground to pieces. Six cars passed over his body.” (FWV 12.26.07 pf 1)
“Stedman was president of the Lyons Building & Operating Company which as forced into bankruptcy last week. The company owned $7,000,000 worth of office buildings, hotels, and apartments in various parts of the city.” (CDT 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“This is a beautiful Christmas day except for the mud, but the small boy with the sled is disappointed.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 2)
Throughout the Morning
In Yolande, AL:
TEP 12.26.07 – pg 1
“Christmas cheer in Yolande, gave way to the gloom of grief though the skies were asmile and the hills tinged with yuletide green.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. ?)
“Sixty freshly made graves in the little cemetery beyond the ill-fated Yolande mine tell their mute story. It was Yolande’s first toll to the dread call of the mine horror. The payment in heart wrung tears of widows and orphans was all the heavier.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. ?)
In Jacobs Creek, PA:
TEP 12.26.07
“It was Christmas only in name to them. Little children stunned by the loss of father, and wives, dry-eyed now, but with faces drawn with affliction, passed through the streets. Some went to church and listened to the sad-faced priest as he besought the mercies of God in their behalf. Others wandered aimlessly about. Few went in the direction of the mine. They had done that so often, and what was the use.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“Wretchedness filled the air. Nobody thought of cheer except the Sisters of Charity, those devoted souls who on this, His day, went about among the poorest of the victims and distributed what Christmas toys they had been able to gather, and thus in a measure softened the grief of many little ones.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“Never before has so black a Christmas day passed at this place, and the other little hamlets surrounding the Darr mine…”(TEP 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“There are 150 widows and nearly 500 orphans as a result of the deadly blast…”(TEP 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“Despite the grief at Jacobs Creek, the orphans of the mining village will not be deprived of a visit from Santa Claus. Through the efforts of Mayor Coleman arrangements have been made to ship a carload of toys to Jacobs Creek Christmas morning and the role of Santa Claus will be taken by a committee of McKeesport men.” (PDP 12.24.07 pg. 3)
“The carload of toys, candies, books, etc., will leave the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie station at McKeesport at 9 o’clock… The movement was started [Monday] and in a short time hundreds of presents were pledged. They have been coming in almost faster than the committee can handle them and every McKeesport resident appears anxious to be among the contributors.” (PDP 12.24.07 pg. 3)
“Rev. Carl G. Hagberg, of McKeesport, who has made a personal canvass of homes at Jacobs Creek, will likely have charge of the Santa Claus expedition. Mayor Coleman has also issued a call for subscriptions for the relief of the bereaved families, to include cash, clothing, etc.” (PDP 12.24.07 pg. 3)
In Parkersburg, WV:
Charles Huffman is shot through the heart by an accidental discharge of his gun while hunting. (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 4)
In Farmington, WV:
Mrs. Ephriam Ashcraft, an aged lady who had been in poor health for some time, is alone in her room. It is thought she attempted to reach something on her mantle when her clothing catches fire. She was found lying on her floor with her clothing a mass of flames. “Dr. Trach was hastily summoned and rendered medical assistance, yet but little hope for her recovery was entertained…” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1)
In Fairmont:
J. Taffanel and Joe Dunaime, of Paris, France, mining experts, arrive to inquire into the conditions of the mines. (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 5)
“Christmas was quietly observed while few large entertainments were given, most homes were the scene of family dinner parties and reunions. In many homes a wondrous Christmas tree had sprung up during the night which added greatly to the festive holiday spirit.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“Christmas was a very quiet day in the First ward. No social functions were held and the entertainments at the M.P. and M.E. Churches were all that engrossed the attention of the residents. All stores were closed and the streets were deserted the greater part of the day.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 2)
In Monongah:
“No, not a merry Christmas, but a bountiful one, is the better way to describe the day at Monongah.” (FWV 12.26.06 pg. 1)
“The mantle of sorrow has wrapped the inmates of many of them in its somber folds but the hand of charity has been willingly extended and gently the curtain has been drawn back letting a flood of sunshine and hope into these very homes to the fullest extent.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1)
Work at the mines throughout the region was shut down for Christmas and this notice is still posted on the office door at Monongah this morning: “No work at mines 5 and Shaver December 25 and 26.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
11:30 am
In Fairmont:
FWV 12.24.07 – pg 1
Members of the Crusade Commandery Knights Templar meet in the Masonic temple and “participate in the Christmas observance as outlined by the committee of the Grand Encampment.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 1)
“This service is held at precisely the same hour without uniforms wherever the Templars may be…” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 1)
FWV 12.24.07 – pg 1
“This service is open to all and to the visitors who have never seen the new Temple, this will be an occasion to inspect the new lodge rooms.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 1)
Afternoon
In Yolande, AL:
TEP 12.26.07
“…the cemetery was dotted with mourners. Widows with their fatherless offspring made the only offer they could upon the altar of their shattered love; a wreath of laurel, a carpet of cedar, a shower of their tears. To the stricken homes Santa Claus brought little of joy.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. ?)
“Charity did all it could to brighten these homes, but charity is a poor substitute for the father who is no more. All the charity and sympathy in the world could not blot out the memory of those terrible hours of waiting, the horror of the coming of the poor charred body: the despair of the never ending journey to the cemetery.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. ?)
In Jacobs Creek, PA:
PPG 12.26.07 pg 1
“The beginning and the end of life was fittingly illustrated Christmas day, when Father Adam Binio of St. Timothy’s church baptized 10 infants and said requiem mass over the former members of his church, who lost their lives in the mine.” (PPG 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“The children are all fatherless and the services attending the baptism were devoid of the Yuletide spirit. Solemn as was the funeral mass, this ceremony for children who will never know their fathers, was the most pathetic sight imaginable, when the sad-eyed widows of but a few days ranged themselves before the altar, with their offerings to God in their arms.” (PPG 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“Following the services many of the women walked again to the morgue in another effort to identify the father of the child whose life had just been consecrated.” (PPG 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“Jacob’s Creek’s dead—the bodies that have been recovered—are buried at Smithton, West Newton, Connellsville and other surrounding tons and hamlets, where cemeteries are located. Most of the miners in the bituminous region of Pennsylvania are members of the Catholic church and the recovered bodies are buried in consecrated ground.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. ?)
“At some of these graves…knelt black robed figures of women. Some had children with them. The bitter tears of widow and mother mingled with these of sister and sweetheart. It was cold but the praying women did not mind it. They were far away from the cold, in spirit, with their loved ones.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. ?)
“The children romped about the graves clutching the little presents given them in the morning by the Sisters.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. ?)
In Parkersburg:
Orlie Bennett is rendered deaf and blind by a premature discharge of a miniature canon. (FWV 12.27.07 pg. 4)
In Farmington:
10-year-old Mary Lamb, daughter of Mrs. Jas. Lamb, climbs into a “dark wardrobe and strikes a match, igniting the clothing hanging there and set fire…Miss Blanche Lamb had her hands burned while trying to extinguish the flames. While the child’s burns are not serious, she is suffering a great deal.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 8)
In Monongah:
TEP 12.26.07
“Two hundred and fifty widows mourning for their dead. One thousand orphans, mostly children of tender years, mourning for absence of Santa Claus. Want, stalking specter-like through the entire district, and sickness on every hand.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. ?)
“Mourning services in the churches, mourning in the homes, sorrow in every face, despair in every heart; not a Christmas tree in all the length and breadth of the camps; and yet throughout the world ‘Peace on earth; good will toward men!’” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. ?)
“It was on No. 3 hill this blow fell the hardest. There in 60 families not a father escaped. From theses stricken homes more than a score of boys, just old enough to evade the labor laws went down to the same fate. Only one boy escaped and he was ill with typhoid fever. And of all this gathered harvest of death less than a dozen bodies found identified graves.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. ?)
“In the camps behind No. 6 and No. 8 mines, in Wahu, and across the river beyond No. 6 these conditions are repeated. What Christmas means where the blow comes with the redoubled force the imagination only can portray. Words fail. One’s mind dulls and the heart dumbs in the presence of grief so unutterable.” (TEP 12.26.07 pg. ?)
Miss Belle Jeanette and her party arrive as scheduled on train No. 14. It was planned that “immediately after the arrival…she will be brought to the Times office in the Franklin car of Mr. Daniel Annan, Jr., kindly driven by Mr. William Wilson.” Rather, she met up with these men at her hotel. (CET 12.24.07 pg. 8) (CET 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“Loading the papers and accompanied by the circulation manager of the Times, Mr. Hill, and one of the Times newsies, a quick run will be made to the Windsor Hotel, where a light lunch will be taken. After this Miss Jeanette will be her best to make up for lost time.” (CET 12.24.07 pg. 8)
“The party, which included Miss Jeanette, Mr. Wilson, Miss Jeanette’s manager, and Mr. R. Mason Hill, of the Times, started out at once and produced down Baltimore street, all along being given and ovation, as far as the Times office. Here Mr. William Wilson obligingly relieved his father as chauffeur, and a run was made to South Cumberland, where the party was enthusiastically received. After canvassing Virginia avenue, the parry then returned uptown and a little later finished the run in front of the Maryland Theatre…” where she and the company will play to crowded houses both matinee and night performances on Christmas day in the play, “A Child Shall Lead Them”. (CET 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“She will not work long time, but tomorrow will devote from 12 to 1 to meeting the people on the Baltimore street and selling her papers for the needy.” (CET 12.24.07 pg. 8)
Illustrated Monthly West Virginian offers subscription books “for one month are the property of the people of Monongah.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 2)
“We ask, however, the privilege of retaining 35 cents on each yearly $1.00 subscription to partly cover the cost of mailing, preparation, etc.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 2)
“Subscriptions will be received by the Red Cross Society of America, 500 Fifth Ave, New York City, also the local committee at Monongah.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 2)
“The next issue of the Monthly West Virginian will be the Fairmont number and will contain a complete and finished write up of the disaster, fully illustrated.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 2)
The joke column was one of the first spaces sacrificed for the Monongah disaster. They return for Christmas: (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 2)
FWV 12.24.07 – pg 2FWV 12.24.07 – pg 3
“How different the feeling when a philanthropist like Mr. Carnegie passes off the stage of action from that felt when a miser like Russell Sage crosses over. The one uses his large means in helping mankind and thereby adds to his own happiness, while the other selfishly tried to appropriate his riches to his own use and only added to his misery.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 4)
“The West Virginian has adopted the rule of issuing no paper on the great national holiday, July 4, and on Christmas day, therefore no paper will be issued tomorrow. We wish all our patrons a Merry Christmas.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 4)
“Mr. Sturgiss is deeply impressed with the Monongah mine disaster and he is desirous of preventing future disasters by endowing the colleges sufficiently that they can give scientific training make mine investigations and report to the bureau.” (CDT 12.24.07 pg. 4)
“In addition to this Governor Dawson is urging the United States senators from West Virginia to take steps for government inspection of coal mines.” (CDT 12.24.07 pg. 4)
“Such a plan as is suggested by Congressman Sturgiss and Governor Dawson would bring to the country a new department of government and there would be constant search and research and examination and re-examination until the protection of miners and mines would be an active science.” (CDT 12.24.07 pg. 4)
Evening Star in D.C.:
ES 12.24.07 – pg 5
Washington Herald in D.C.:
WH 12.24.07 – pg 3
Ottumwa Tri-Weekly Courier in Iowa:
“The relief committee has been formed by prominent citizens headed by Governor Dawson, to solicit subscriptions to aid the stricken families…” (OTC 12.24.07 pg. 3)
Twice a Week Plain Dealer in Iowa:
TWPD 12.24.07 – pg 2
“State Mine Inspector Paul of West Virginia made a thorough examination of Mines Nos. 6 and 8 Friday. Until Mr. Paul concludes his investigation all other work at the mines has been suspended.” (TWPD 12.24.07 pg. 2)
Topeka State Journal in Kansas:
“Gasps of horror fill the air throughout the land over the terrible slaughter that has been wrought during the past few weeks because of explosions in coal mines in various parts of the country, and especially in the twin tragedies at Monongah and Jacobs Creek.” (TSJ 12.24.07 pg. 4)
“Slaughter it surely was for neither of these disasters were mere casualty. They are crimes and can be called nothing else.” (TSJ 12.24.07 pg. 4)
“But there is no question in these two latest disasters of the mysterious laws of nature. The laws whose neglect fell thus upon the innocent are known laws and the price of obedience is small.” (TSJ 12.24.07 pg. 4)
“Yet such is the greed and callous indifference of man that even that small price was begrudged. Grim death has collected a debt at a terrible price and one bringing sorrow and distress into countless homes.” (TSJ 12.24.07 pg. 4)
“Both the Monongah and the Jacobs Creek explosions followed shut downs. They were the result of accumulations of gas and dust, and these accumulations, as mining experts know, can be avoided by the simplest means. That is, a watchman passing regularly and at reasonably frequent intervals through the mine, opening the doors and allowing some movement of air, will prevent the accumulation of gas in pockets sufficiently large to create dangerous explosions. The simple and comparatively inexpensive device of a perforated pipe, from which a very fine spray issues, disposes of the danger from dust.” (TSJ 12.24.07 pg. 4)
“Murder by the wholesale, and that is the only designation that may be applied to these two recent disasters and many others which have occurred in times past, challenges the conscience of a nation.” (TSJ 12.24.07 pg. 4)
“These frightful calamities should teach us what crimes a cynical indifference and parsimony are guilty of.” (TSJ 12.24.07 pg. 4)
“Society is vitally concerned in the safety of these workers upon whose daily toll we all rely, whose conditions of labor at best are of the worst, who are in every sense society’s sacrifice to her own good. Justice, not mercy, demands of the state the protection of these men.” (TSJ 12.24.07 pg. 4)
Bemidji Daily Pioneer in Minnesota:
BDP 12.24.07 – pg 2
New York Tribune:
NYTb 12.24.07 – pg 7
“The executive committee of the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission, meeting at Pittsburg, voted $35,000 for the sufferers from the Monongah mine disaster.” (NYTb 12.24.07 pg. 6)
“The number of bodies recovered at Monongah thus far is 344.” (NYTb 12.24.07 pg. 7)
The Sun in New York:
TS 12.24.07 – pg 10
Palestine Daily Herald in Texas:
PDH 12.24.07 – pg 3
Daily Press in Virginia:
DP 12.24.07 – pg 1
Times Dispatch in Virginia:
TD 12.24.07 – pg 1
Bluefield Evening Leader in West Virginia:
BEL 12.24.07 – pg 2
“On account of the many recent mine disasters the Pittsburg Dispatch employed J.L. Dixon, a mining engineer, whose reputation as an expert stands high, to locate, if possible, the cause of the disasters in the Pennsylvania and West Virginia coal district.” (BEL 12.24.07 pg. 2)
Cumberland Evening Times in Maryland:
CET 12.24.07 – pg 3CET 12.24.07 – pg 8
Detroit Free Press in Michigan:
DFP 12.24.07 pg – 6
Dayton Herald in Ohio:
DH 12.24.07 pg 2DH 12.24.07 pg 4
“Readers of the Herald who aided in the collection of Christmas presents and cash for the Christmas of the widows and orphans in the horrible mining disaster may eat their Christmas dinner with an added zest tomorrow. Their thoughtful Christmas spirit has aided in relieving the distresses of nearly fifteen hundred people and they have been Sant Claus to over one thousand fatherless and practically homeless children. Others aided in the laudable enterprise, and for the day the Christ says to you, ‘In as much as ye have done it unto the least of thee ye have done it unto me.’” DH 12.24.07 pg. 4
“The same spirit which in the people of Dayton and vicinity prompted the general Santa Claus car load of toys and clothing for the Monongah Christmas, also prompted the hearts of many thousands of other, and many cars of necessities and many thousands of dollars are on the way to ill fated, but remembered, Monongah.” DH 12.24.07 pg. 4
“The kind hearted relief committee at Fairmont and Monongah will have a busy Christmas, but they can afford to postpone their Christmas for a day or two and enjoy the pleasure of relieving the necessities of the poor Monongans and giving them a little Christmas cheer.” DH 12.24.07 pg. 4
“But Christmas is not the only day that is coming to these sorrowing ones. The future is full of days—dark, gloomy days that will appear more gloomy perhaps for the little brightness of the one day.” DH 12.24.07 pg. 4
“We are glad to see formulating a plan for the permanent relief and assistance of these unfortunates. About fifty thousand dollars as been raised and is on the way to the treasurer of the committee. But this, it can be seen, will not be much in the distribution, only about thirty dollars to each person.” DH 12.24.07 pg. 4
“The coal company will permit them to stay in their homes until they are provided for in some manner, and the people who are looking after their welfare now will continue their efforts.” DH 12.24.07 pg. 4
“Some of the families desire to return to Europe where they can be with relatives. Others wish to go to some other section of this country where they can make a living. Non, of course, can stay in Monongah, for none can mine, and what few there are needed to sew and mend and wash for Monongah people are already there and were there before the disaster.” DH 12.24.07 pg. 4
“Plans are also afoot to aid the Jacobs Creek victims, who, however, are not so many, but whose needs are fully as great.” DH 12.24.07 pg. 4
“In the meantime, lawmakers should go to work to frame a law preventing recurrence of such disasters, if that be possible. That would, indeed, be a Christmas gift to the country equal to the country’s gift to Monongah.” DH 12.24.07 pg. 4
The Boston Globe in Massachusetts:
BG 12.24.07 – pg 7
“Reports that disorder occurred yesterday necessitating the drawing of firearms by the squad of state police were without foundation.” (BG 12.24.07 pg. 7)
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette in Pennsylvania:
PPG 12.24.07 pg 1PPG 12.24.07 pg 1
“Among the victims of the latest mine explosion at Jacobs Creek are 12 or 13 miners who had been employed at the Naomi mine previous to the explosion there on the night of December 1, when 34 poor unfortunates were suddenly hurried into eternity. Within a few days after the explosion here the men began to leave, numbers going to their old homes in Europe. But a wagon load of men drove across country to Darr, besides a number who made their way on foot. There are now added to the number of widows and orphans here who will for a time have to depend on charity for a living many more as a result of this latest catastrophe beneath the ground.” PPG 12.24.07 pg. 1
“The families of the victims of the Naomi explosion are wanting for nothing, however, notwithstanding the fact that so far as known not a penny of the money raised for their benefit at various places has ever been turned over to them. The United Coal Company is seeing that they get everything that is needed, and will also provide for their future toa certain extent. Those who desire will be sent back to their native land. But few want to leave here. One widow is soon to become a bride, and another has already started a boarding house.” PPG 12.24.07 pg. 1
“Unlike the coal company at Monongah, the owners of the Naomi mine have made no appeal for the aid to outsiders. The order of Superintendent J.D. O’Neil are that no one is to be permitted to want for anything. The company is not merely supplying those whose support is gone with food and clothing, but the money is given tot hem that they may do their own purchasing. It is, in fact, discouraging outside aid, preferring to do all this work itself in an effort to make what reparation it can for the awful loss of life. A collection is being taken here today to give the orphans of the dead miners a merry Christmas.” PPG 12.24.07 pg. 1
“Henry Hobek, who is connected with the Austro-Hungarian consulate at Pittsburgh, has spent several days in this vicinity looking after the interests of his fellow countrymen. Twenty-five of the entire number of victims were natives of that country. Mr. Hobek found that some shark had already been among the people, getting the women and other relaives to sign powers of attorney or claim papers giving him the right to collect whatever money could be got from the company.” PPG 12.24.07 pg. 1
Baltimore Sun in Maryland:
BS 12.24.07 pg 2
Pittsburgh Daily Post in Pennsylvania:
PDP 12.24.07 – pg 1
“Secretary Wilmot’s first move on going to Jacobs Creek probably will be to perfect the organization of relief committees, getting them in working order for investigations and for the handling of funds. He will then return to make his report to the commission when another special meeting will be held.” (PDP 12.24.07 pg. 1)
“Up to midnight 50 bodies had been prepared for burial, while more than 30 are at the bottom of the slope ready to bring out.” (PDP 12.24.07 pg. 1)
“Work of exploration on the right of the main entry is practically completed and it is believed that most of the bodies have been located.” (PDP 12.24.07 pg. 1)
“Several of the hours were required to change the air currents so that the work could be carried into the left section. It is on this side that most of the bodies will be found.” (PDP 12.24.07 pg. 1)
“Scarcely had the change in air been effected when the men had to be called from the mine because one of the blades of the big fan became loosened. Telephonic communication has been established between the mouth of the pit and the rescuers and they were notified to come out immediately to wait for repairs.” (PDP 12.24.07 pg. 1)
Morning
In Fairmont:
A “committee of assistants to Santa Claus” spends all day getting names and “over 300 packages, each package containing toys, dolls, mechanical toys, games, books, fruits, candies, nuts, and most everything else that would be appreciated by the children” ready for distribution at Monongah tonight. (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“The work was too much for [Santa] so he had the assistance of Mrs. C.W. Watson who took personal charge of the distribution of the Christmas presents. Mrs. Watson was assisted in this work by Mrs. J.E. Watson, Misses Lucy and Elizabeth Watson, Miss Helen Tuttle and Miss Lucile Ruckman and Master Edwin Watson.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1)
“Mrs. A.J. Ruckman, who has been so deeply interested and so painstaking in her work of relief lent valuable assistance. She did not rely entirely on the census for the names of the needy ones but made a personal house to house canvass of the neighborhood to make perfect the list of names and with her precaution it is hardly probable that a single person was missed.” (FWV 12.26.07 pg. 1)
10:00 am
In Fairmont:
The Fairmont West Virginian reports that the weather will be: Light snow or rain tonight and tomorrow. (FWV 12.23.07 pg. 1)
A meeting of Monongah Miners’ Relief Committee commences in the city council chambers. There is “…much work to do in the next few weeks and it is very important that proper plans for that work be laid out.” (FWV 12.23.07 – pg. 5 – extra)
“The report of A. Howard Fleming, secretary of the subscription committee, and the report of the executive committee were made and the work of the committees were applauded by the general committee and were urged to pursue the course that they have.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 8)
Hon. J.M. Jacobs introduces a motion directing that a letter be written to the head of each relief fund that is raising money and inform them to send the money received to Mr. Sands or place it in a bank to Mr. Sands’ credit so that he can draw on the bank for the amount placed in it. (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 8)
“Many suggestions were offered in the meeting as to how the future work of the executive committee should proceed…Rev. J.C. Bloomfield moved that a committee of three, composed of members of the present executive committee, should draft bylaws and rules to govern action of executive committee.” They also determined that “…the number to constitute a quorum of the committee was reduced from thirteen to nine.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 8)
They collectively agreed that this committee “should report at a meeting to be held in the council chamber on next Tuesday at three o’clock.” They also decide that the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at 3:00 pm will be the regular time the MMRC will meet and report. (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 8)
The committee acknowledges that, “So far there has been no census taken of the number of dependents that will have to be cared for. This matter will be looked after. This work will largely be done through the priests and pastors of the churches.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 8)
“The name, age, nativity of each victim of the explosion will be taken; the name of the wife, the names and ages of the children whether in this country or in their native land will be taken. Also the future intention of the dependents as to what they will do or expect to do. This complete record is necessary so that the distribution of the funds may be done with the precision that it should.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 8)
Bishop Donahue is appointed to prepare a census form (blanks) “which will contain questions when properly answered will give all the information necessary without being a conglomerate mass. These blanks will be printed so that the work will be comparatively easy.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 8)
At some point during the morning:
At the Darr mines in Pennsylvania:
“Even though many of the widows have been left practically without money with which to buy Christmas present for their children, a number of voluntary contributions along this line in the form of candy and toys have been made. There will be distributed by the committee on Christmas morning. The last donation to be received was large pails of candy from a Pittsburgh confectioner, and it is said that several hundreds loaves of bread will be received tomorrow.” (PDP 12.24.07 pg. 1)
This image is often used in association with Monongah, however, this is a photo of victims of the Darr mine disaster either being “stored” until burial or of being placed in the potter’s field. The key noticeable difference is the type of coffins pictured.
“That many a home which was to have had a Christmas tree will contain a coffin during the happy hours of yuletide was demonstrated today when Henry Grossman delivered but three of the 26 Christmas trees which had been ordered from him. Grossman came into town this morning to deliver his trees, but at almost every door he was met by a sad faced woman who countermanded the order.” (PDP 12.24.07 pg. 1)
In Butler, WV:
Charles Simonel, aged 65, says, “I am going to spend Christmas with my God,” and kisses his small grandson goodbye. An hour later his wife finds him “dangling at the end of a rope from the attic. In a pocket she found a note which read: ‘Have not been at church for 32 years, but have made my peace with God and want to go to him.’ He leaves a widow and three children.” (FWV 12.24.07 pg. 5)
“The above picture shows the great quantity of merchandise sent to the Herald office by charitable people of the city and vicinity for the benefit of the thousands of fatherless children and four hundred widows of the Monongah mining region. The material was sent to the Herald, conveyed there in wagons kindly provided by the Dayton Livery Company though its president and manager, George W. Heathman. At the Herald office the merchandise was packed and gotten ready for shipment over the United States Express Company which company generously expressed the stuff free of charge. There was represented in the boxes clothing, books, toys, candy, etc., the amount running into the tons.”DH 12.21.07 pg. 1
In Fairmont:
“The box supper and social given at Industrial Saturday evening for the benefit for the Monongah sufferers was a decided success, $11.85 being raised.” (CDT 12.23.07 pg. 1)
“Owing to the nearness of Christmas it was impossible for quite a number of the people to attend as they had to come to the city to see Santa Claus, and order Christmas presents for their girls and boys.” (CDT 2.23.07 pg. 1)
“The boxes brought and sold were artistically trimmed and the contents were the very best that money could by the eating of which was greatly enjoyed by all.” (CDT 1223.07 pg. 1)
At the Darr Mines in PA:
“Several gangs of workmen are boarding up the abandoned rooms of the old entries as to forge ahead and try to recover the bodies.” (FWV 12.21.07 pg. 1)
“Mr. Schluderberg denied strongly the rumor current here this evening that 100 bodies had been located and would be brought out early tomorrow morning. He said each body would be brought out as soon as it was discovered. Mr. Schluderberg went to his home in Pittsburgh this evening but will return some time tomorrow.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“The rescue work progressed steadily and systematically all day but was slow on account of a heavy accumulation of gas, which necessitated more precaution in the work of exploration. The mine has been penetrated about 10,000 feet, but the slope is an old one and the workings are nearly three miles from the surface.” (BS 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“After reaching the end of the main head the relief parties will explore the rooms and butt entries where they expect to find bodies in great numbers. In anticipation of this the number of undertakers was increased today and work on an addition to the improvised morgue commenced. The building will be made 40 feet longer.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“The 13 bodies thus recovered here have been identified and will be buried tomorrow. All are badly mutilated and their identification was obtained only by clothing. The legs of another victim are at the temporary morgue.” (BS 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“Men and women have haunted the mines for day. They appear stunned by the awfulness of the disaster, but it is expected that they will grow frantic when they get the bodies. The company has ordered white coffins for the trapper boys killed in the mine.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“One of the particularly sad cases was brought to light by the relief workers today was that of Mrs. Michael McNamora, who came to Jacobs Creek one week ago. Immediately upon the family’s arrival her husband and her uncle, Edward A Schein, went to work in the mine and are among the dead. Mrs. McNamora is prostrated.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“A general relief committee will be organized early next week. It will be composed of officials of the mine workers’ unions, a representative of the coal company and citizens outside of this community.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“Many applications have been received by the postmaster of Jacobs Creek from people who wish to adopt orphan children. A prominent Pittsburgh business man wishes to procure two healthy boys.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
Night
In Monongah:
One body is found in Monongah the mines (FWV 12.23.07 pg. 1)
At Darr mine in PA:
“But 13 bodies had been recovered from the Darr mine when darkness came tonight, and all hope of reaching the others before tomorrow was abandoned.” (BS 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“The bodies brought out today were in a horrible condition. Some bodies found were minus a leg, an arm, or a head. The rescue parties declared the sights were sickening in the extreme. It is the opinion of State mine inspectors that many bodes will never be found.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“The company officials are satisfied that there will be large number of unidentified bodies. They have purchased an addition to the Smithton cemetery for the interment of the bodies unclaimed.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
PPG 12.21.07 pg 2
“With the exception of the unidentified all bodies were removed from the morgue tonight to the homes of the victims. They were first viewed by Deputy Coroner H.A. McMurray, of Youngwood. Coroner C.A. Wynne was not here today but sent word he would get in early tomorrow and remain in charge of the morgue.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“Thousands of persons are expected to visit the scene of the disaster tomorrow. The squad of Pennsylvania state police will be reinforced by coroner’s deputies to guard against disorder.” (BS 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“It is expected that more than 25,000 visitors will flock to the village tomorrow. There will be nothing for them see see however as cordons of constabulary will keep the crowds outside the lines and far from where they could catch any sight of the dead, as they are brought from the mine. It is said that the railroad companies have been asked to reduce the number of trains to Jacobs Creek in the hop of keeping the crowds away.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“Relief funds have been started in towns surrounding this place and in a few days a permanent organization will be perfected to take care of the widows and children.” (BS 12.22.07 pg. 2)
Here and there one or more may be found who had fallen during a vain attempt to reach the exit, but the almost universal belief is that nearly all will be found in the one remote section, three miles from the mouth of the mine, where they were working when the explosion occurred.” (WBR 12.21.07 pg. 5)
~6:00 pm, News Hour
Fairmont West Virginian:
“Old established Life Insurance company” in Philadelphia offers an “opportunity to boys and girls of Fairmont and vicinity.” (FWV 12.21.07 pg. 1)
An “Educational contest” is opened to any scholar under the age of 19, in high school or grammar grade, including public, private, parochial and country schools. The reward will be 10 cash prizes for the best essay on the subject “Why Should A Father Insure His Life?” (FWV 12.21.07 pg. 1)
The Fairmont West Virginian apologizes for the cramped condition of their printings; “We have had a car of paper on the road since the 13th, but it has not yet arrived and have been forced to economize very closely with limited quantity of paper on hand which has preventing us from giving a twelve page paper.” (FWV 12.21.07 pg. 1)
German Beneficial Union publishes settled claims for Monongah (FWV 12.21.07 pg. 7)
Fred Rogers – $1,000 paid to Annie Wilson, his sister
Leslie Spragg, $1,000 paid to his widow, Betraze Spragg
Patrick J. Kearns, $500, paid to his widow Margaret Kearns
Thomas Killeen, $500, paid to his widow, Bridget Killeen
Patrick Hyland, $1,000, paid to his father John Hyland
Jesse Severe, $500, paid to his widow, Maggie Severe
Charles McKane, $500, paid to his widow, Vella McKane
Homer Pyles, $250, paid to his mother, Maggie Pyles
George Snodgrass, $250, paid to his widow, Maggie Snodgrass
Ellis V. Herndon, $15 paid to his daughter, Martha Lewellen
William Layne appointed administrator of the personal estate of Adam Layne, deceased. Bond given in the sum of $50 with A Wright as surety. (FWV 12.21.07 pg. 8)
Marion Lodge, No. 40, Knights of Pythias Committee publishes a letter of condolence. “Whereas, God in his infinite wisdom has seen fit to call from our ranks our beloved brethren, Rev. K.D. Ryalls, Richard Farmer, and C.H. Johnakin.” (FWV 12.21.07 pg. 8)
“Be it further resolved that a copy of these resolutions be sent to each of the bereaved families; that they be printed in the Fairmont daily and Advocate, and that they be spread upon the records of Marion Lodge, No 40, K. of P. – W.H. Fortune, C.C.; Seymore Scott; H.M. Bailey; N.B. Scott; E.L. Morton – Committee” (FWV 12.21.07 pg. 8)
Clarksburg Daily Telegram:
“Tuesday night the Sabbath school will have a tree to which the children and others are to bring presents and these presents are to be sent to the Rev. W.O. David at Monongah for distribution Christmas night to the Monongah children. Strangers are cordially invited to all of these services.” (CDT 12.21.07 pg. 3)
“If a small percentage of the money apportioned as dividends by the coal trust had been applied to perfecting the underground workings of its Pennsylvania and West Virginia mines the Monongah and Jacobs Creek catastrophes probably would not have occurred. In less than three weeks nearly 600 men have gone to a sudden and awful death as the result of criminal negligence on the part of somebody. When the responsible parties are identified the full penalties of the law should be inflicted upon them.” (LAH 12.21.07 pg. 4)
“The coal trust’s operations are peculiarly exasperating and onerous, and in view of the attitude of the ‘barons’ in control few will be found to sympathize with them if justice is meted out to them, if investigations disclose their culpability in connection with the two great tragedies of late occurrence.” (LAH 12.21.07 pg. 4)
Rock Island Argus in Illinois:
RIA 12.21.07 – pg 1
Ottumwa Tri-Weekly Courier in Iowa:
OTC 12.21.07 – pg 1
Frostburg Mining Journal in Maryland:
FMJ 12.21.07 – pg 2
“A prominent Fairmont gentleman wrote the Journal: ‘ Too much praise cannot be bestowed upon the operators for the liberal way in which everything has been managed in behalf of the many stricken ones.’” (FMJ 12.21.07 pg. 2)
Diamond Drill in Michigan:
DD 12.21.07 – pg 6
Bemidji Daily Pioneer in Minnesota:
BDP 12.21.07 – pg 2BDP 12.21.07 – pg 2
The Semi-Weekly Leader in Mississippi:
TSWL 12.21.07 pg. 2
Santa Fe New Mexican:
SFNM 12.21.07 – pg 1
The Spokane Press in Washington:
TSP 12.21.07 pg 1
Bluefield Evening Leader in West Virginia:
BEL 12.21.07 – pg 1
“As soon as the decision of the supreme court in the Wirt county case was announced Tuesday it was generally known that the extra session would be held.” (BEL 12.21.07 pg. 1)
“The governor at present will not give out the exact subjects which he intends to include in the call. On November 26, Governor Dawson announced that he had decided to call the legislature to convene in special session…” (BEL 12.21.07 pg. 1)
“The recent disaster at Monongah may lead to the consideration of the mining laws though the governor has not expressed himself on this matter. However, the call will be prepared in a few days and given to the public.” (BEL 12.21.07 pg. 1)
“I read about Tony McLuckie in the Harmony Club saying it was so hard to find a girl willing to become a feller’s wife, but I want to say to him right now his excuse aint no more good. He can go to Monongah, get a wife for the asking and a hundred dollars to boot! This is a fact, I am told, and I don’t want to hear no more of his trying to square himself with the community on the ground that not being a married man is not his fault. —Joe Duffy” (FMJ 12.21.07 pg. 2)
Afternoon
In Iquique, Chile – South America:
200 striking Nitrate workers are killed by government troops. 10,000 workmen from the interior refuse to disperse and the troops open fire with machine guns. A state of siege is declared. (FWV 12.23.07 pg. 1)
In Farmington:
Dr. Smith has arrived to examine the gunshot and stabbing victim, Stonco Goyac, and orders him straight to Cook’s Hospital. (FWV 12.23.07 pg. 1)
At the Darr mine in PA:
ETR 12.21.07 – pg 1
“A gruesome task has developed upon M.S. Shoppe, the proprietor of a store here. He was personally acquainted with almost all of the victims of the explosion and hourly he is being called upon to identify mangled forms of former customers. Fortunately he has a peculiar faculty for remembering faces and is of great assistance to the officials.” (PDP 12.21.07 pg. 2)
“Mr. Shoppe has completed a house-to-house canvass of one section of Van Meter, and in one row of 50 houses he finds 129 wage-earners missing. The census idea will be carried out, although company officials are not showing such a disposition to prosecute the enumeration and rescue work as was manifested by C.W. Watson and his assistants at Monongah.” (PDP 12.21.07 pg. 2)
“The first funerals of the mine victims were held today.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“The body of Peter Linbaugh will be buried in the West Newton cemetery and that of Joe Sharpenberg in the Smithton cemetery.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“A special car will be attached to a Pittsburg & Lake Erie rain leaving Jacobs Creek tomorrow afternoon at 3:18 to convey the body of Linbaugh and his relatives to the cemetery. Services will be held at the homes of the two victims preceding the funerals. The Odd Fellows of Smithton will have charge of the Lingaugh funeral.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“Many funerals will probably be held on Christmas day. Every effort was made to avoid Christmas funerals but there is now little chance of postponing them.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“It is estimated that there are at least 150 orphans newly-created and 175 widows and that there are not less than 50 mothers from whom has been snatched away the support of sons.” (PDP 12.21.07 pg. 2)
“The small business interests of Van Meter and of Jacobs Creek are already feeling the effects. It is said that to these small storekeepers alone accounts aggregating small fortunes will be unpaid as a result of the explosion.” (PDP 12.21.07 pg. 2)
~2:15 pm
At Darr mine in PA:
“At 2:15 pm, several physicians were hurriedly summoned to the Darr mine and sent inside. It was reported that some of the rescuers had been overcome by gas. No names are obtainable yet.” (DH 12.21.07 pg. 1)
“The difficulty of rescue work is hourly increasing as the black damp is found in greater quantities as the men forge forward. It will not be possible that more bodies can be reached until this damp is eradicated. Indications tend to show that the force of the explosion was terrific, tearing large wooden support and thick planks like paper. A hundred and fifty caskets will arrive here to be stored in large houses until the bodies are recovered.” (DH 12.21.07 pg. 1)
During the Afternoon
At Darr mine in PA:
“In their endeavor to reach the victims several members of the rescuing party were overcome by black damp. Their condition became so grave that physicians were rushed into the mine. Later the sickened rescuers were brought to the surface and taken to their homes.” (BS 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“Another explosion of white damp or marsh gas momentarily is expected in the Swamp section of the ill-fated Darr mine No. 129. That this is true, is proven by the adoption of a new precaution in the rescue work which is so hampered by the presence of deadly gases that little progress is being made. Patent fume helmets are to be used by the rescuers in the mine this afternoon. Shifts of six English speaking miners only will use these helmets to go ahead of the air that is to penetrate beyond the brattices.” (DH 12.21.07 pg. 1)
“A.E. Davidson, of New York, inventor of the helmets is here superintending the work. Men can work in deadly gases with them for five hours but for safety will only stay in the Darr mine two hours.” (DH 12.21.07 pg. 1)
“Clarence Hall, the Government geological expert, of Washington, and S.M. Fowler, of Chicago, a United States mining engineer, arrived to make an investigation for the Government. Mine inspector from surrounding States are also present, and a thorough investigation of the explosion will be made, in the hope of reaching some plan where the danger of such occurrences can be lessened.” (DH 12.21.07 pg. 1)
“Clarence Hall, expert connected with the geological department of the National Government, arrived here today from the Monongah mines of West Virginia, where he had investigated the explosion. He went into the Darr mine this afternoon and will make a thorough investigation.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“R.T. Chamberlain, a chemical expert of the geological department, will join Mr. Hall tomorrow.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“In getting back into the afterdamp laden section of the mine Mr. Hall used a smoke and fume helmet, an invention of J.E. Davidson, of New York. It is to provide pure air to the users in entering places where the atmosphere is poisonous. A tank of oxygen is strapped to the back of the user and fed to him through a helmet similar to that worn by divers.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“Nick Brett, a miner, also used one successfully in the mine today.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“The company will probably adopt this means of protection for members of the relief parties in going into the mine rooms for bodies. As a result of this and other mine accidents in Pennsylvania this year the State department of mines will, it is said, make recommendations for remedial laws to the next Legislature.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“The work of recovery is going forward so slowly that relatives of those dead in the working are becoming impatient and frequent mutterings are heard.” (DH 12.21.07 pg. 1)
“Miners say, however, that the work must necessarily be slow. It is proved that the Pittsburg Coal Company knew that deadly gases were in the Darr mine and that it was taking precautions to prevent such a disaster as occurred. Contracts had already been made with the National Helmet Company to furnish a quantity of these safety helmets.” (DH 12.21.07 pg. 1)
“Coroner C.A. Winne and Deputy Coroner H.A. McMurray, of Youghwood, are here, but no bodies have been taken from the mine since daylight and they have had nothing to do so far.” (DH 12.21.07 pg. 1)
“The scenes about the mines are of a more pathetic nature today. Apparently a full realization of the calamity had finally come to the relatives and residents of the vicinity. Greater numbers congregated and gave full sway to their feelings.” (BS 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“Ambulance chasers” have been found at work among the foreign families. Irresponsible undertakers have attempted to procure $10 from the friends of each mine victim to look after the body. Attorneys have also canvassed the community trying to secure a retaining fee from the families. The attorney has promised all his clients thus secured big damages. The company attorneys have secured an interpreter and will advise the families as to what the concern proposes to do.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
PPG 12.21.07 pg 1
“In anticipation of large crowd of morbid spectators here tomorrow the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie railroad officials have ordered a squad of their officers to report at the Darr mines in the morning to assist the State constabulary in preserving order.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“The railroad has experienced great difficulty in dealing with crowds at their depot near the mines. As each train pulls into the station it is besieged by men and women who prevent passengers getting off and interfere with the express business.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“This afternoon the crowd practically took possession of a train. They clamored into the coaches through windows and fought with one another in getting into the baggage car. It was necessary to detain the train for 15 minutes before the coffins could be unloaded.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“While the State police have the situation well in hand it is though advisable to give them assistance tomorrow. The railroad police will probably be held here for several days as trouble is expected when the bodies are brought out in large numbers.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“James P. Roderick, chief of the department, visited the Darr mine today and made an investigation. He asked permission of the company to go into the mine with four district inspectors. This was refused on the ground that all the air possible was needed for the relief parties. After an explanation of conditions in the mine Chief Roderick consented to take only two with him.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“While Mr. Roderick would not discuss what he had seen in the mine, he admitted that new laws were needed. Officials of the Pittsburgh Coal Company declared that any fair mining law would be acceptable to them.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“D.R. Blower, deputy district mine inspector, began an inspection of the Darr mine on December 9, but was called away and never completed it. He refuses to say, however, in what condition he eft the mine. W.J. Neilson, inspector of this district, who has been ill for several weeks, came to the mine today. He left his bed contrary to the doctor’s orders.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“To provide quarters for the men engaged in the relief work, the company fitted up a vacant house adjoining the tipple. A large number of cots were put in the house.” (PDP 12.22.07 pg. 2)
In Pennsylvania:
“David Riggings, formerly of Lonaconing, where he worked some times ago, was one of the victims of the Monongah mine disaster. He was a brother of Mrs. Jeanie Robertson, of Lonaconing, and 10 years ago as employed at Lonaconing, later going to Newburg, W.Va., and from there to Monongah. He was 36 years of age.” (BS 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“Three other brothers were employed at the Monongah mines, but none of these was in the mine on the day of the explosion. One of them, who is a wire fitter, had been sent to repair wires in another mine on the day of the explosion, while another had recently been transferred to another mine, and the third did not go to work on the fatal day.” (BS 12.22.07 pg. 2)
“At Lonaconing a vaudeville entertainment will be given at Evan’s Opera House on December 27 for the benefit of the Monongah sufferers. More than $100 has already been raised in Lonaconing for the benefit of the sufferers.” (BS 12.22.07 pg. 2)
The Monongah Disaster 