“Worthington being so near the scene of the late disaster shares in a closer manner the sadness which must overshadow the community for many months to come. Many of our people have been untiring in their heroic efforts to afford aid to the sufferers, in many cases walking miles to help in the arduous labors without a thought of compensation. Truly it strengthens ones faith in human nature when we so often find the hero hidden under the everyday exterior. For many days life seemed at a standstill in Worthington but living people must work to live and the customary vocations and avocations are beginning to rally from the shock.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 2)
Late Evening
In Monongah:
One more body is found making a total of 338 bodies recovered. (FWV 12.19.07 pg. 1)
“State Mine Inspector Paull is still at work collecting evidence.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 1)
The members of the Joint Legislative Committee retire their examination for the night and head back to Fairmont.
7:30 pm
In Fairmont:
First M.P. Church holds a Prayer meeting (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2)
Diamond St. M.E. Church service observing the anniversary of birth of composer Charles Wesley. “The first hymn he composed was ‘Oh, for a thousand tongues to sing”. This hymn with several others which he composed will be sung…at the prayer meeting…” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 2) (FWV 12.16.07 pg. )
The members of the Joint Legislative Committee stay at the Tavern in Fairmont tonight. (Inquiry)
Building 5 is “The Tavern” aka Skinner’s Tavern
Night
In Monongah:
“No more bodies have been recovered…and the total number of the ones recovered remains at 338.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 1)
2 gangs of 30 men work during the night. No more bodies are found. (FWV 12.19.07 pg. 1)
Some more carcasses of horses and mules were removed. (FWV 12.19.07 pg. 1)
“Mr. James Davis of Helen’s Run has accepted the position of principal of the Monongah school for the remainder of the term.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 2)
Clarksburg Daily Telegram:
On page 4, an editorial confronts and criticizes the Wheeling Intelligencer:
“It goes off half-shot, really drunken in its gibbering about the terrible disaster at Monongah.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 4)
“…to state to the public that Governor Dawson and his mine inspection in this state is lax, and just as insistent is it that it absolutely controls Governor Dawson and that he shall not turn a hand without its approval.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 4)
“Produce the goods upon which you make your assertions and charges, else keep your mouth shut. Down this way we are not taking things for granted and you can not fool us.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 4)
“Mention was made in the list of contributors who sent supplies for the Monongah mine sufferers to the mayor’s office of the Hornor-Gaylord Company with credit for a barrel of flour. This was a mistake as the Hornor-Gaylord Company sent a large quantity of supplies direct to Monongah immediately after the disaster, included in them being six or seven barrels of flour and many other things.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 6)
“The barrel of flour sent to the mayor’s office was likely sent by some one else and credit was given to the Harnor-Gaylord Company probably because the firm’s name was the only one on the barrel.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 6)
“The company is preparing 1,000 sack of candies and other goodies to be sent to the children of the mine sufferers for Christmas.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 6)
“…J.J. Connell was appointed by the lodge to look after the distribution of a shipment of clothing and supplies to Monongah…” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 6
“…so we have this day started forward the boxes of clothing of different descriptions (a list of same is here attached), billed to the Mayor of Monongah and realizing that both the mayor and relief committee have all they can attend to and desiring our mite to do as much good as possible, we hereby ask 182 to send a brother to Monongah to look after this contribution and to use his own judgement as to the proper course to pursue.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 6)
“Mr. Connell has been at Monongah nearly every day since the accident occurred and is familiar with the relief work being done there.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 6)
“The shipment of goods has not arrived at Monongah from New Philadelphia you but Mr. Connell will attend to its distribution as soon as it arrives.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 6)
“The box supper to be given in the school house in the Industrial addition Saturday night of this week at 7:30 o’clock will be under the auspices of the Union Sunday school there, the Young People’s Christian Union and the Epworth League of Ash chapel.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 12)
“The various denominations there are urged to take part in the supper and every one is cordially invited.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 12)
“The young ladies will prepare dainty boxes of eatables and these will be auctioned to the highest bidders and after the sale is completed the supper will be indulged in.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 12)
Washington Times in D.C.:
“Two more bodies have been taken from the Monongah mines, making the total list of bodies recovered 337.” (WT 12.18.07 pg. 11)
Gainesville Daily Sun in Florida:
“The permanent relief committee, headed by Governor William O. Dawson, to provide for the widows and orphans in distress through the recent explosion at the mines of the Fairmont Coal company at Monongah has prepared an appeal for funds that is being sent to chambers of commerce and kindred organizations all over the country.” (GDS 12.18.07 pg. 1)
Richmond Palladium in Indiana:
“Two more bodies were taken from the Monongah mine today, making a total recovered of 337.” (RP 12.18.07 pg. 1)
Senators Thomas C. Gartlan and R.F. Kidd and Hon. GA. Mitchell, accompanied by D.E. Matthews and Mr. John Marshall, arrive to investigate the Monongah mine explosion. (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 1)
They came from Clarksburg over the interurban line and “went immediately to the Tavern, being escorted by Host Williams.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 1)
Building 5 is “The Tavern” aka Skinner’s Tavern
The committee will check into Skinner’s Tavern then continue on to Monongah where they “will investigate conditions as thoroughly as possible but will not take particular action until the evidence before the coroner’s jury has been given.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 1) (Inquiry)
1:30 pm
Mr. Newton Rice, of Pharaoh’s Run had a narrow escape from death at the B&O depot when train No 71 was passing through the station at an unusual rate of speed and Mr Rice was struck by the cylinder on the engine and hurled to the platform. Bystanders assisted him to his feet and after a few minutes he was able to go his way. Beyond a few bruises he was apparently unhurt.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 1)
During the Afternoon
In Fairmont:
Union Relief Association holds a meeting of the executive board the in lecture room of the M.P. Temple in order to make a report of funds collected. “Mrs. A.J. Ruckman, of Monongah, was present at the meeting by special invitation, and in a short talk told of the needs at Monongah and expressed the gratitude the Monongah people felt towards the citizens of Fairmont for the aid they had given and were still giving them. It was agreed that the Relief Association at Monongah and the Union Relief Association should work together and 6 Fairmont women went to Monongah today to assist in the distribution of clothing…(missing)…Relief Fund to be distributed at Monongah, it being a yearly institution for Hartley’s to distribute the Christmas baskets among the poor of the city. The remaining baskets as usual will be distributed among the poor by the King’s Daughters. A meeting which was called for Saturday has been postponed, date to be announced later.” (FWV 12.19.07 pg. 5)
“Damage suits are expected to come on behalf of the dead Italians. G.D. Caldara, the Italian consul here, said that personally he would prefer to settle all claims possible out of court but he could not say what his government would do.” (CET 12.18.07 pg. 1)
In Monongah:
“…the rescuing parties did not operate today.” (CET 12.18.07 pg. 1)
“The search for dead bodies has ended in Mine No 6 and but little more is to be done in No 8. “ (CET 12.18.07 pg. 1)
“It is thought that not much more work can be done in this direction without moving a lot of debris, which the rescuers say falls in some parts of the mines, particularly in No 8, are so bad that little or no progress can be made.” (CET 12.18.07 pg. 1)
“Some falls in different rooms reach to the extent of 200 feet and the interior of the mine is in a badly torn-up condition. It is not likely that some of these falls will ever be cleared up, as it will necessitate a great amount of work and labor, and the rooms are practically exhausted of coal.” (CET 12.18.07 pg. 1)
The West Virginia Legislative Joint Committee visits the disaster site and does an inspection of the outside conditions of the mines. They “consulted State Mine Inspector James Paul regarding the explosion and its cause.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 1) (McAteer) (Inquiry)
Paul reports to the committee that though they have finished their inspection of #6, they have not finished their inspection of #8 due to the condition of the mine, and therefore could not give any insight on the cause of the disaster. (McAteer) (Inquiry)
“Of the committee that went to Monongah, Senator Kidd was the only one who entered the mines. He accompanied the Inspectors into No.8. Speaking of this, Senator Kidd said the explosion must have been terrific as the wreckage in the mine is unconceivable.” (CDT 12.19.07 pg. 1)
Hartley’s Department Store advertisement in the Fairmont West Virginian 12.18.07 page 5
“There are no new developments at Monongah today. A rescue party worked last night but found no more bodies, the total remaining at 337.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 1)
Morning
In Yolande, AL:
CDT 12.18.07 – pg 1
“The Yolande mines were among the model collieries of the Birmingham region. Non-union men were employed exclusively, but everything possible had been done to insure the contentment of employees. Yolande is situated on a beautiful hill and all the houses are painted white with green trimmings, giving it an air of picturesqueness and healthfulness unusual in mining quarters.” (TFR 12.18.07 pg. 1)
In Clarksburg:
Manager of Clarksburg Amusement Company, George A Murray, turns over to Rev. Father Reynolds a check for the sum of $25 to go to Monongah relief. “It will be remembered that the company volunteered to give the net proceeds of the Odeon and the Bijou Family Theater during last week to this worthy cause.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 2)
“By reason of the inclement weather which prevailed last week the proceeds of the popular play houses were not nearly so much as the company hoped to tender for this worthy cause.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 2)
A meeting of the Joint Legislative Committee has been called to gather at the Hotel Waldo in Clarksburg by Senator Thomas C. Gartlan of Parkersburg for the purpose of making an investigation into the Monongah disaster. The Joint Legislative Committee “made a tour of the coal fields of the State and visited the Monongah mine in October and were seemingly impressed with the good and favorable conditions that obtained there.” (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)
This Committee, appointed by Sen. McDermott, is composed of Senators Gartlan and Kidd, Delegates Duty, Strickling and Mitchell as well as John Marshall, Sargent at Arms, and John T Harris, secretary and stenographer. (Inquiry) (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 8)
However, Harris as well as Delegates Duty and Strickling have not arrived and, therefore, do not attend. (Inquiry) (CDT 12.19.07 pg. 1)
Committee members Gartlan, Kidd, Marshall, and Mitchell depart Clarksburg for Fairmont on the interurban line. (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 1)
In Fairmont:
The Fairmont West Virginian reports that the weather will be: Light snow, colder; Thursday, fair.
CDT 12.18.07 – pg 1
“John Neary, a miner of Uniontown, Pa., who helped with the rescuing parties at Monongah after the mine disaster died in Cook’s hospital here this forenoon.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 1)
“He contracted pneumonia while working with the rescuers and this caused his death.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 1)
“Neary went to Monongah as a volunteer to help in the rescue work and assisted at both mines No 6 and 8. He was a middle-aged man.” (CDT 12.18.07 pg. 1)
“Mr. Neary’s home was Latrobe, PA, and relatives will arrive from here today to take the remains home for burial.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 1)
Monongah Mines Relief Association begins operation in the Masonic Temple under direction of Frank P. Hall. Postmaster A. Howard Fleming is secretary of the Association and will have oversight in the work. 4 stenographers are employed to send out 50,000 copies of an appeal for aid for the miners’ widows and orphans; “The stenographers are Misses Walsh, Gaskins, Leora Abbott and Elizabeth Stone.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 1)
In Monongah:
“Conditions at the mines are becoming normal.” (CET 12.18.07 pg. 1)
“The mine inspectors spent another day in their investigation.” (WT 12.18.07 pg. 11)
“Chief Paul and his force of investigators are continuing their work of gathering data to present before the coroner’s jury.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 1)
“The slowness with which the work is proceeding makes it likely that the coroner’s inquest, which will take the added importance of a State investigation, will not begin until after Christmas.” (WT 12.18.07 pg. 11)
Mr. M.D. Toothman walked to the cut near Barrackville which has been made by the street car company and, in some manner, slips and falls 25-35 feet down an embankment. Toothman sustained serious injuries but no bones were broken and he managed to remarkably narrowly escape instant death considering the distance he fell and the fact that his head missed two big rocks but by a few inches. (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 1)
In Clarksburg:
“The legislative mine investigating committee called by Chairman Thomas Gartlan to meet here today to investigate the mine horror at Monongah has not yet come together, the members not having arrived.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“Judge D.E. Matthews, of Charleston, assistant attorney general, and John Marshall, of Parkersburg, committee clerk, arrived last night and today and Senator Gartlan this evening from Grafton but the majority of the members of the committee have not arrived.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“It may be the meeting will be called off until next week as the coroner will not begin his work until next week according to advices of the hour.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 1)
In Fairmont:
Irene Meyers & Company opens at the Grand Opera House with “Ruled Off the Turf”. (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
FWV 12.17.07 – pg 6
During the first week of the disaster, a regular performance of “The Arrival of Kitty” had been cancelled early and rescheduled for the spring on account of low attendance. This low attendance wasn’t due to the quality of the show, nor directly to the disaster, but rather due to the venue’s delay in offering to contribute some of their proceeds to the relief fund; patrons had chosen to spend their time and money at other venues through the week which were donating to the fund.
“Mr. J.E. Powell, manager of the Grand Opera House, and Mr. Will H. Meyers, manager of the Irene Meyers Stock Company, have kindly volunteered to contribute to the relief committee 10 per cent of the gross receipts on the week, and also the entire gross amount of a special matinee to be given on Friday afternoon.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“The theater management and Mr. Myers requested the committee to have someone present to look after its interests and Col. W.H. Brand has kindly offered his services in this capacity.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 8)
“The theatre goers of Fairmont will be given opportunity of not only witnessing first class plays produced by an unusually good company, but will be contributing their mite to a good and needy cause.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“…all who were present were a unit in agreeing that Miss Myers is entirely worthy of all of the good things that were said about her in advance of her coming.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 8)
“Her style is highly pleasing and the role of jockey which she assumed last night was interpreted in a most intelligent and natural manner. Besides her really clever acting she sang some good songs which were enthusiastically encored.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 8)
“Her supporting company is the strongest ever seen here in a repertoire organization.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 8)
J.E Lessig, the heavy, came in for much favorable criticism. Marty Woodworth furnished some good comedy while Joseph Lawrence was very clever as was also Miss Edna Macbeth. “Notwithstanding the excellent cast the vaudeville features were highly entertaining.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 8)
“The Century Comedy Four was the best male quartette ever heard on the local stage…” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 8)
“…the Marvelous Vade, the magician, put on some exceedingly clever tricks which were done with a neatness that is rarely seen.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 8)
“Marty Woodworth’s black face specialty was also very good.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 8)
Night
In Monongah:
“No bodies were recovered today and with the two taken out last evening late, the number recovered to date is 336. Those taken out last evening were beyond identification.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“The carcasses of several horses and mules have been brought out of the mines during the past few days. There was a report current that no horses or mules had been found, but that was false.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
Rescue crews work but find no new bodies. (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 1)
Ohio Inspector George Harrison publishes his statement after returning to Columbus. “Notwithstanding that conditions point to a coincidence of peculiar circumstances as leading to the explosion it seems premature to form any final opinion of the cause until a thorough investigation has been made in all parts of the mines.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 2)
FWV 12.17.07 pg. 7
Clarksburg Daily Telegram:
CDT 12.17.07 pg. 1CDT 12.17.07 pg. 3
“There has been a persistent knock here against the raising of funds for the Monongah sufferers. This should not be so. The Telegram has a supreme faith in humanity and believes that the families of the victims of the mine horror will be as treated as the funds and donations justify. Honorable men and women have enlisted in the great cause with a single end in view—that of aiding and comforting the distressed.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 4)
“The relief committee has invited the newspapers, even appealed to them to come to the aid of the mine sufferers at Monongah. The Telegram volunteered its services the night after the awful disaster and it assures the public that it is still earnestly enlisted in that service. Other papers may hold aloof, but not so with this paper, when it sees a chance to help humanity.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 4)
“Senator McDermott is of the opinion that the trip of cars breaking loose caused the mine horror at Monongah. Who knows that he is not right?” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 4)
“Our people should not forget that anything they have of value at all the humanity will be cheerfully and thankfully accepted by the mine sufferers at Monongah.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 4)
“Two hundred thousand dollars is the amount the relief committee at Monongah appeals for. That means that much more money must be raised. Clarksburg has done well so far but there are thousands in the city who have not given to the fund. Think it over. Give something if you can.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 4)
CDT 12.17.07 pg. 8
“In this report Senator McDermott endeavors to relieve the Fairmont Coal Company of any responsibility for the explosion which snuffed out the lives of approximately 500 men and boys. Neither does he attribute it to any carelessness on the part of the miners. This is the first official statement made relative to the cause of the disaster.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 10)
Washington Herald in D.C.:
(WH 12.17.07 pg. 12)
Washington Times in D.C.:
“C.L. Magee, secretary of the National Red Cross, has received over $500 for the benefit and relief of the sufferers…” (WT 12.17.07 pg. 14)
“Contributions have come from all sections of the country and many of the State branches making collection have not yet reported to the headquarters here. Consequently, it is expected this sum will be greatly increased.” (WT 12.17.07 pg. 14)
Rock Island Argus in Illinois:
RIA 12.17.07. – pg 1
The Interior Journal in Kentucky:
IJ 12.17.07 pg 2
The Paducah Evening Sun in Kentucky:
PES 12.17.07 pg 7
The Caucasian in Louisiana:
TC 12.17.07 – pg 4
Bennington Evening Banner in Vermont:
BEB 12.17.07 – pg 7
The Evening Statesman in Washington:
TES 12.17.07 – pg 1
Bluefield Evening Leader in West Virginia:
“Sometimes a frightful shock is necessary to impel proper legislation. This would seem to be the case with the recent Monongah mine disaster,…” (BEL 12.17.07 pg. 2)
“West Virginia has had an unusual number of casualties within the past year, and our legislators should hasten some method which will prevent a repetition of the horrible affair at Monongah.” (BEL 12.17.07 pg. 2)
“Mining is one of the most dangerous industries in which labor is engaged and every possible means should be adopted to protect the lives of those who toil in the mines.” (BEL 12.17.07 pg. 2)
Wausau Pilot in Wisconsin:
WP 12.17.07 – pg 3WP 12.17.07 – pg 3
The Dectaur Herald in Illinois:
TDH 12.17.07 – pg 3
The Evansville Press in Indiana:
TEP 12.17.08 – pg 1
Cumberland Evening Times in Maryland:
“A reorganization of the relief committee in charge of relief work for the families affected by the Monongah mine disaster has been effected and now the new committee will push the work of providing relief for the needy.” (CET 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“Of the dozen or more miners from Clarksburg who perished in the Monongah mine horror the bodies of all have been recovered except that of a man named Hyland. If his body has been taken out it has not been identified. It is more than likely that it never will be identified and will be buried with the unknown.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 5)
~ 12:00 pm
At No. 1 mine in Yolande, AL:
“40 bodies now recovered. The remainder will be out by tonight.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“The mine has been pronounced free from gas by State Inspectors and it is supposed that the explosion was caused by dust.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
The explosion is now known to have occurred in either the 5th or 6th right entrance. All of the bodies have been recovered from those entries and some of them are so horribly mutilated that identification is almost impossible. (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
At the mines in Monongah:
One body is found in No. 8 by Chief Paul’s inspecting committee. The inspection committee is working “through No 8 toward No 6”. (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
~2:30 pm
Women’s Christian Temperance Union holds a meeting in the Library parlors. (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 5)
~3:00 pm
The Arts and Arts & Crafts Dept. of the Woman’s Club holds its regular meeting at the public library in Willard Hall. A special program is given, in charge of Mrs. U.A. Clayton, to which the public is invited. Admission is 35 cents and the proceeds will go to the Monongah relief fund. The subject of the programs is “The Madonna” (FWV 12.13.07 pg. ) (FWV 12.14.07 pg. 5)
“The entertainment was a success from a financial stand point as well as a literary and musical treat the sum of $35 being realized.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 4)
At some point during the afternoon
In Washington D.C.:
William Griffith and John J Payton, of Scranton PA, arrive in D.C. “in an almost famished condition” after walking almost 200 miles to Washington from Scarbro, WV. (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 7)
Both were induced to leave their work in Scranton “some months ago” by advertisement of the White Oak Coal Company offering to pay wages at which they could have earned from $5-$6 a day. When they got to work they were paid $.48 for the work in which they received $1.10 at the Scranton mines, and $.50 for what they received $1.29. (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 7)
“If stories told…are true, the laborers at the mine of the White Oak Coal Company at Scarborough, WV are virtually slaves.” (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 7)
Their wages are paid in scrip good only at company store and they were often forced to discount their checks even at the stores. The longer they worked at the mines the deeper they became indebted to the company. (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 7)
They would have left there at the end of the first week if they had not virtually been imprisoned by the detectives and guards of the company. Every day, they claim, the miners are marched to and from work under guard. (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 7)
After 3 or 4 unsuccessful attempts, they managed to escape with $1.50 as the result of their 3 months labor. (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 7)
They are asked to present their grievances to the Assistant Attorney General Russell with a view of securing evidence for the prosecution of the coal company. (FWV 12.18.07 pg. 7)
In Monongah:
Chief Mine Inspector Paul is still on the ground with district inspectors making an examination of the mines.
“News from the mine explosion so far as the Monongah end of the line is concerned will not amount to much any longer. The search for bodies has ended in No 6 and not much more will be done in No 8.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
Morning
In Yolande, AL:
In Fairmont:
The Fairmont West Virginian reports the weather as: Cloudy tonight. Wednesday, snow.
Prof. Schef gives a talk on “Mine Explosives” at Fairmont Normal School. He discussed “at first, the chemical relationship of one element to another and then spoke of the recent mine disaster at Monongah and the one in the Birmingham field. He advanced many ideas which were new to the students and as he continues his remarks he will have a question box.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 4)
In Monongah:
TD 12.18.07 – pg 1
“Several cases of scarlet fever are reported among the children at Monongah, but the best of medical attention will be given them and a spread of the disease is not anticipated.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
At the mines:
Most of the recovery efforts which can be done are done. Rescue crews are not working today. (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“At the instance of State Mine Inspector James W Paul the work of cleaning out the mines that were wrecked week before last by explosions was virtually suspended today, though a small amount of work was done in No. 6.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“Mr. Paul finds the condition of No. 8 so bad that further work might destroy the evidence that the mine inspectors seek and for that reason the work has been entirely suspended there.” (CDT 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“State Mine Inspector Paul doesn’t want any more done than just has to be until he had made a thorough investigation, and for that reason the rescue crews are not working today.” Only 2 bodies have been found since Monday and “it is not thought any more can be found without removing much debris. (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“One of the rescuers had a narrow escape from death and he hardly knows why he was saved. He was standing at one place directing the work and for some reason stepped away a short distance when a 2 ton fall came down at the exact spot where he had been standing. It almost makes the cold chills run over one to hear of such experiences.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
One of rescue workers from No 8 “says falls 200 feet long have occurred in some of the rooms which are nearly worked out and that it is not likely that they will ever be cleaned up. Should there be bodies under those large falls they would be beyond recognition and the work would be useless.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“Farmington was well represented at Monongah during the days when that unfortunate city needed so much assistance in rescuing the ill-fated miners from that death trap. No one thought of pay for his services, but boldly faced the rescuing of those who were buried under the hills. Several of our men were there for four days and at work every day and sometimes all night. They tell some gruesome tales of the things they saw and did.” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. )
Evening
In Brooklyn, WV (a suburb of New Martinsville):
An overheated stove causes a fire in the Wetzel Cigar company factory and burns it to the ground. “The New Martinsville and Brooklyn fire departments did good work in preventing the spread of the fire.” (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 8)
Luckily, no one is injured but 75 workers are now out of a job. The company promises it will rebuild at once. (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 8)
In Clarksburg:
The West Virginia Joint Legislative Committee is called to meet at the Hotel Waldo by its chairman, Thomas Gartlan for the purpose of collectively visiting the scene of the disaster. (Inquiry)
Those in attendance are: Chairman Gartlan, Senator R.F. Kidd, Senator A.J. Mitchell, and John Marshall (Sargent at Arms). (Inquiry)
These committee members spend the night at the Hotel Waldo and plan to visit Monongah tomorrow, once more members have arrived. (Inquiry)
In Fairmont:
A group that has been significantly active in the relief work, the Isabella Davis Circle of King’s Daughters, meets at M.E. Church. “This is the last meeting of this year and a large attendance is urged.” (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 5)
M.E. Church on east side in Fairmont from 1897 map
~7:30 pm
In Clarksburg:
A joint meeting of Executive and Subscription committees of MMRC is held at the Hotel Waldo. (FWV 12.16.07 pg. 1)
At the mines in Monongah:
The 2nd search still on going as workers continue to clean up roof falls in #8. (McAteer)
Night
In Yolande, AL:
Rescue work continues slowly because of the debris in the mines and large crowd of women and children at the opening. (FWV 12.17.07 pg. 1)
“The scenes at the mines are descried as being pathetic in the extreme. All the horrors familiar in old mine explosions are being reenacted at Yolande, and the members of miners’ families are almost paralyzed with grief.” (JVC 12.19.07 pg. 1)
“Men from mines all over Jefferson and Tuscaloosa counties, especially those in the vicinity of the disaster, have rushed to aid their fellow unfortunates and a gallant fight will be made for the life of every living man.” (JVC 12.19.07 pg. 1)
“This is the day of ‘little mothers’ in Monongah. The little girls tend the babies, wait on the sick and get what bits of food there are.” (NCH 12.10.07 pg. 1)
~7:30 am
The Fairmont West Virginian predicts even more rain for today and tonight, followed by snow and slightly cooler weather (12.10.07 pg. 1)
“It has been raining here steadily since last evening and wretched conditions prevail throughout this section today.” (WED 12.10.07 pg. 1) (ES 12.10.07 pg. 1)
At the mines:
“The stench from decomposed bodies in the mines is becoming almost unbearable to rescuers. The stench is made worse because thirty-six horses were also killed in the mines.” (GWA 12.12.07 pg. 7)
“Many rescuers have become sick. One hundred and fifty miners from the mines in George Creek district have been summoned here to assist in the rescue work.” (GWA 12.12.07 pg. 7)
“The health officers fear an epidemic of fever, due to the decaying bodies of the men and the animals caught in the mine, and have prepared to enforce heroic measures if it becomes necessary. Quicklime will be taken into the mine and scattered over the bodies if conditions become much worse.” (ES 12.10.07 pg. 1)
“The crowds of idlers who surged about the pit entrances…have been dwindling ever since the rainstorm last night…” (AR pg. 1) (LAH 12.11.07 pg. 2) (SFC 12.11.07 pg. 1)
“The mud at the opening of the mines is several inches deep and has been trodden by the great crowds into a perfect quagmire, through which the men with the stretchers have to carry the dead. In conveying one of the recovered bodies down to the railroad tracks this morning a stretcher bearer slipped and the inanimate burden, which was wrapped in a blanket, was thrown into the mud. The sight of it gave the crowd a convulsion.” (RP 12.10.07 pg. 1)
At the morgues:
“Bodies brought from mines Nos 6 and 8 …during last night carried the list of victims beyond the hundred mark, and others are being carried into the morgue in intervals.” (WED 12.10.07 pg. 1)
2 men taken out this morning had some money on them: #101 – Salvadore Lobbs had $150 in a belt strapped around his leg and #110 – Andy Morris had $23.19 in his pocket-book. This brings the total amount of money found on the miners to $200.19. Money is in the hands of the coroner as are all other things that are found. (FWV 12.10.07 pg. 1)
In Fairmont:
J.E. Sands, cashier of First National Bank, receives a check for $500.00 from the City Bank of Wheeling and a check for $100.00 from the Second National Bank of Cumberland, MD and $100 through Mr. Zack Robertson from a friend in Wheeling. (FWV 12.10.07 pg. 1)
In Grafton:
Floyd Parsons “came up from Fairmont” and gives the Grafton Republican newspaper his statement “concerning the horror…”. Floyd was employed as chief engineer in the mines that exploded at Rush Run some months ago and in which he narrowly escaped death. Later he entered into special examinations of mine disasters for the journal he now represents. (FWV 12.10.07 pg. 2)
~8:00 am
“Carrying out orders from officials of the Baltimore & Ohio railroad, a force of between forty and fifty trackmen that have been working on the railroad between this city and Parkersburg, left Clarksburg Tuesday morning on the interurban trolley line for Monongah to assist in digging graves for the dead that are taken from Monongah mines Nos 6 and 8. The men took picks, shovels and other tools with them and as soon as they arrived at Monongah they proceeded to the cemeteries and began work digging graves. The men were called to this city from various points along the railroad between Parkersburg and this city where they had been working.” (CDT 12.10.07 pg. 1)
In Monongah:
Milroy “Toy” Watkins is taken from Monongah to Montana for burial. The brother of Will Watkins, “…hearing that his brother was in No 6 mine went to work to help find him and he did not give up until he had found him and recognized him by a pair of black patent leather shoes and a black sateen shirt.” (FWV 12.12.07 pg. 2)
The Marion County Board of Health issues an order to advance the burial procedures. Viewing and ID opportunities for families and friends are limited to 4 hours maximum, no matter the condition of the body. The new accelerated ID and burial process cause many burials to occur immediately, without funeral masses. Catholic parishes hold whatever services they can at graveyards. (McAteer)
~9:00 am
On the far east side of Fairmont:
“Impressive were the services conducted by Rev. Hess” for Toy Watkins which takes place at the United Brethren church at Montana. He was the son of Mr. Willis Watkins and was a grandson of Mr. and Mrs. John Freeman, “an aged and respected couple residing at Montana and was related to many people living in and around Hoult and Montana.” Toy is survived by “4 brothers and 2 sisters; his mother having died about one year ago.” He is also survived by wife, Gettie Hyson Watkins, of Simpson, “who is very poorly in Cook Hospital, she being almost prostrated by the awful shock and untimely end of her husband.” (FWV 12.11.07 pg. 2)
In Monongah:
“Shock and grief have already destroyed many of the little unborn lives. Many women are so distraught with suffering that they forget all about their children.” (NCH 12.10.07 pg. 1)
“Funeral after funeral is being held at the churches in Monongah. The funeral cars are on the move most of the time. The unknown dead are being buried in the potter’s field near the Polish Catholic church.” (FWV 12.10.07 pg. 1)
Over 70 bodies are interred throughout the day. Some of them get funerals at the church, particularly those who could be preserved, but due to the condition of so many of the bodies brought out in the past hours, more frequently they are simply taken to one of the cemeteries. If identified, a small prayer is said; if not they are just buried. (McAteer) (news)
“The relief work is well under way and will soon be systemized. There is now plenty of food but there is urgent need of clothing in many families. Cash funds are being raised in many places and installments have already been forwarded from some points. The coal companies of this district have contributed $20,000 cash.” (WED 12.10.07 pg. 1)
“Thirty-seven funerals were held Monday and a number today. One body was sent to the cemetery followed by one lone woman, the widow, who had stood for days at the mines waiting for it.” (GWA 12.12.07 pg. 7)
At the mines:
“Every day since the explosion, hands, legs and arms have been removed. The stench from the decomposed bodies in the mines is becoming almost unbearable. This is one of the greatest difficulties which the rescuers have to overcome.” (RP 12.10.07 pg. 1)
“Up to nine o’clock this morning one hundred and one bodies have been removed from the Monongah mines, thirty-one having been taken out since midnight.” (CET 12.10.07 pg. 1)
~10:00 am
In Clarksburg:
“Charles McKane, aged 28 years, one of the Monongah mine victims, was buried in Holy Cross cemetery here at 10 ‘clock Tuesday forenoon. McKain’s body was found in one of the rooms of No. 8 mine and was taken from the mine shortly after midnight. With others it was conveyed to the morgue at Monongah and prepared for burial. It was then sent to his late home in that town arriving there at 2:30 o’clock, and Tuesday morning it was brought up on the interurban and buried. Relatives and friends accompanied the body. Mr. McKain’s body was not mutilated. It is evident he smothered to death. He leaves a wife and one child.” (CDT 12.10.07 pg. 3)
“Mayor L.C. Crile announced Tuesday morning that all moneys received at the council chamber in response to his proclamation calling for donations for the relief of the Monongah mine suffered, would be turned over to the Telegram relief fund, and due credit will be given to each donor. The donations will be published in the Telegram daily. A list of all the donors who leave supplies, provisions, clothing, etc., at the mayor’s office for the Monongah mine sufferers will be published each evening in the Telegram also. Donations are coming in freely and they should continue so for there are many unfortunate women and children left in destitute circumstances by the awful disaster.” (CDT 12.10.07 pg. 1)
In Monongah:
“Quite a number of Bridgeport people today went to the scene of the great mine disaster at Monongah. Some went for the mere sake of seeing, while others went with the hope of getting tidings from relatives and friends who were employed at the ill-fated mines.” (CDT 12.10.07 pg. 7)
“There is no change in the demeanor of the people of the stricken town except that the gloom of sadness and sorrow deepens all the time. Funeral after funeral was held today, mostly at the Catholic cemeteries, where scenes are most sad. After loved ones have been identified at the morgue and prepared for burial, hundreds of women and children gather at the cemeteries on the hill instead of going to the churches and await the arrival of the dead.” (CDT 12.10.07 pg. 1)
“Women were found today weak from pain, who are also suffering from lack of proper nourishment. Some of the Fairmont women have depleted their own stores of winter supply food in relieving the distress.” (RP 12.10.07 pg. 1)
“Ever since the explosion the most heroic action has been displayed on all sides by the women who despite their great stress and suffering, clung to their children. From the start they realized that the little tots were to becomes a serious burden, but on all sides could be heard the same sentiment, they would rather die than give up their children.” (CET 12.10.07 pg. 1)
“Some of the widows have no relations in America, for many came to Monongah with their husbands from the old country. Others came as sweethearts, years ago, after the lovers had made enough money to send for them. And while their married lives began here, they apparently prefer, in their distress, the old homes far away.” (CET 12.10.07 pg. 1)
“There are not many of the women who can now find any charms about Monongah, and although foreigners, most of them want to return to their native country, feeling that the few short years of the country of liberty has brought them nothing but grief and suffering.” (CET 12.10.07 pg. 1)
Special correspondent for the United Press, Dorothy Dale, and her photographer are approached by “the brightest Italian girl in the settlement”, Faustina Davia (last name reported as “Daria”).
Faustina Davia
Faustina is the oldest child and only daughter of Victor and Catherina Davia (DaVia). Victor was a “day man” working in #6 at the time of the explosion and was recorded as the 15th body recovered from the mines and to go through the morgue. He was identified by George Gibbons at the Italian Catholic church in Monongah sometime on Monday, though it is generally known that none of the family got to actually view and confirm that the body which was buried in Row A Grave 9 of the Italian Catholic cemetery contained Victor’s actual remains. (Tropea) (News) (McAteer) (Loss) (Amos)
“’Please you get something for me, I can do.’ A little hand touched my arm. A curl-framed face of a girl of 10 looked into my face. ‘You know mans all dead. Boys all dead. Only girls left to work.’ Do you know the half apologetic half appealing look of the trembling old man who shoved out of his life’s track by younger men—the man who begs you to buy matches or shoestrings? Well, that was the expression in the old young eyes of little ten-year-old Faustina Daria. Faustina was in the sixth grade the day before the explosion. That is ages ago to her.” (NCH 12.10.07 pg. 1)
At the mines:
“With 112 bodies on the surface at 10 o’clock today, 25 more ready to be brought out of Mine No 6 and 4 awaiting removal from Mine No 8. It was expected that the total number of bodies recovered from the wrecked mines by noon would be 140.” (CDT 12.10.07 pg. 1)
“The rescuers are working the right side of mine No. 8, where, it is thought, a majority of the bodies yet in the mine will be found.” (ES 12.10.07 pg. 1) (RIA 12.10.07 pg. 1)
“The rescue work is being pushed and before night it is expected that most of the bodies will have been taken out.” (WED 12.10.07 pg. 1) (ES 12.10.07 pg. 1)
~11:00 am
In East Monongah:
The General Relief Committee holds a meeting at the First National bank, which is currently operating as the primary morgue, and passes an order that the receipts and disbursements of the committee be published in the Fairmont papers from day to day. (McAteer)
Bishop Donahue of Wheeling and Judge Mason are added to the General Relief Committee. (FWV 12.10.07 pg. 1)
Donahue has “visited many of the homes of miners and found so many children made orphans by the disaster that he immediately took up the work of providing homes for them. He will arrange to have as many as can be accommodated sent to the orphanages maintained by the church at Huntington and Wheeling.” (WED 12.10.07 pg. 1)
In West Monongah:
Faustina Davia has taken Dorothy Dale and her photographer to her family’s three-room house on Walnut Avenue.
“‘See my Ma, Resta, Kipling, Georda and Ojgenia to work for,’ as she pointed at the group on the steps. ‘My pa make $2 a day,’ she explained. ‘And wasn’t it awful; three days he was home with a hurt on his back, and Friday he went in again and—and—’. But even the brave lips of strong hearted women of ten sometimes give way. The little figure crouched against the wall and quivered with sobs. ‘You know we paid $5 rent and had lard and cheese and bologna,’ she said with pride. The child spoke as rich people spoke of automobiles and theatre parties. And there was little Faustinas in almost every house in Monongah.” (NCH 12.10.07 pg. 1)
“I tell you there is nothing that makes one’s heart go out more to that stricken people than the way tiny girls put their little shoulders to the burdens that their mothers can not bear.” (NCH 12.10.07 pg. 1)
Photo taken of the Davia family on the porch of their home.Photo of Davia family at Ellis Island. Catherina and her family is the focus of this author’s historic fiction, therefore, there will soon be areas of this site which will be dedicated solely to her story.
~11:30 am
“At eleven thirty, one hundred and thirteen bodies have been taken from the mine by rescuers. The bodies of those taken out since daylight are in good condition, and many were identified.” (CET 12.10.07 pg. 1)
The Monongah Disaster 