Includes bibliographical references (pages 204-214) and index.
Summary:
It is November 13, 1909, and the coal miners of Cherry, Illinois, head to work with lunch pails in hand, just like any other day. By seven a.m., 484 of these men are underground, starting jobs that range from taking care of the mules that haul coal, to operating cages that raise and lower workers and coal, to chiseling out rocks and coal from the tunnels of the mine. With the electrical system broken, theyre guided by kerosene torches -- and come early afternoon, a slow-moving disaster begins, barely catching the mens attention until its too late. In what starts as an hour-by-hour account, Sally Walker tells the riveting and horrifying story of the Cherry Mine fire, which trapped hundreds of men underground. Alternating between rescue efforts above and the heroic measures of those trying to survive the poor air and entrapment below, the tragic story unfolds over eight excruciating days in a narrative compelled by the miners' hope and absolute will to survive. Rich with archival photographs and documents, this stirring account includes sources, bibliography, an authors note, and follow-up information about survivors, rescuers, and families.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.