The Story of Loan Survivor of Disaster Fred Elinger Awaked Amid Scenes of Carnage and Thinks First of Dinner Pail - His Escape a Mystery. Physcians Say He Cannot Live.

Marianna, PA, Nov. 29, 1908

Despite the fact that one lone man escaped from the terrible mine disaster at Marianna yesterday in which the lives of 125 men were snuffed out in the twinkling of an eye the cause of the accident will probably never be learned from his lips as the physcians in charge stated this evening that the man could not live. The man's injuries are of such a nature that his death, is expected at any time. Although this man whose name is Fred Elinger, speaks broken English it was expected that he would be able to give a detailed account of the affair. After being brought to the surface Elinger said in his broken way: "I was working at laying brick in one of the entries and the first thing I knew a terrible explosion took place, which threw me some distance. My two buddies were also tossed some distance away. I heard them for a while and then all was quiet. I was overcome by the afterdamp and fell asleep. I do not know how long I slept, but when I awoke I started at once for my dinner pail. It could not be found and then I started to hunt for the air shaft as I knew I had been working near it. I moped about in the mines for some time and heard the rescuers at work nearby, I thought they were going back without finding me and I at once yelled as best I could and then they came." Thomas Carney exploring the mine heard the cries for aid and taking one of the helmets containing oxygen he made his way through the debris and over the bodies of the dead miners and found Elinger, who had his clothes entirely blown off, and his hair singed off close to the scalp. His body was completely filled with small pieces of coal. His eyes were also badly burned and contained small particles of coal. It was at first thought he was entirely blind. It was just at 8:55 p.m. that Carney brought Elinger to the surface.
[from the "Washington Observer," Washington, PA, Nov. 30, 1908.]

From the "Washington Observer," Washington, PA, Monday Morning, November 30, 1908

SIXTY-ONE BODIES HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM ILL-FATED MINE

Worst Disaster in History of Mining in Washington County Some Unseen Force at Work Wrecks What Was Considered the Finest Mine in the World--Cause of Disaster Leaves Science and Invention to Wonder.

THE STORY OF THE AWFUL CATASTROPHE
Marianna, PA Nov. 29.
Shortly before 11 o'clock Saturday morning a terrific explosion took place in the Marianna mines of the Pittsburg-Buffalo company in which 130 men were working and all but one of this entire number were killed outright. The shafts at No. 1 and No. 2 Rachel and Agnes, were badly wrecked by the force of the explosion, one man was killed and others seriously injured who were just starting down the shaft in the cage at No. 2. the explosion came without a moment's warning and with such force that it could be heard for miles around. The steel derrick over the No. 2 shaft was wrecked and the cage torn to pieces. The temporary derrick in construction at the Rachel shaft was literally blown to atoms and scattered in a thousand different pieces about the opening of the shaft. Inspector Henry Louttit had just stepped from the cage of shaft No. 2, when the explosion took place. He had been at Marianna for two days and had inspected the mines every half hour on Friday and during the same intervals Saturday morning up until the time of the explosion. The mine is gaseous. All the mines in this end of Washington county are in this condition. But Mr. Louttit said that there were no accumulations of gas anywhere in the mine so far as he had been able to observe. Engineer and General Superintendent A.C. Beeson had come to the surface just a few minutes before Louttit. He had found the mine in perfect condition.

A Model Mine.
The Marianna collieries were supposed to be the model mines of this country and the world. I fact they are. No mine was ever planned with greater care and equipped with better facilities and improvements to avoid accidents and those one in a thousand calamities which experience has taught the practical experienced miner are liable to happen at any time. Underneath the surface amid the workings and entries of this mine every convenience had been arranged for the miners, every precaution taken and the experts of the world had visited it and come away declaring that the mining problem had been solved for the safety of the men. Yet, Saturday morning some unseen force was at work which wrecked a mine to the extent of hundreds of thousands of dollars, entombed 125 or more men in its chambers of death and left science and invention to wonder at the cause of it all. The explosion came so suddenly that the superintendent and inspector could scarcely realize what had happened. Men were set to work, however, at once to get the fan in operation, again. It was necessary to give them air at once if they were to be saved. The Agnes shaft which is the middle one was being used as the main entry to the mine and the coal from the operations as well as the men and supplies were all taken up and down this shaft. The Rachel or No. 1 shaft is the larger and it is the purpose of the company to make it the principal one for their operations and the No. 2 to be used as the air shaft and the one for emergency purposes, for the entrance and exit of the miners and for supplies. But No. 2 was the main shaft when the explosion took place. It was put out of commission at once and it was impossible for the men to get into it from the surface. The work therefore was directed from shaft No. 1, which after the explosion occurred was nothing more that a big hole in the ground. The temporary derrick had been blown to pieces.

Shaft Out of Commission.
Men were put at work immediately to get this shaft in condition and the task of removing the debris and of constructing sufficient framework to operate the big bucket was soon on. Hundreds of men were called into service and under the direction of the superintendent and the foremen about the mine it was not long until the fan was in operation and the mine again supplied with air and the shaft in condition for the men to begin operating the bucket from the bottom of the shaft. Superintendent Beeson with several of his men descended the steps almost at once to see what condition the shaft. Fifty feet from the bottom it was found to be caved in--but room enough was found for the operation of the bucket but for nothing larger. This shaft is one of the largest in the world. It was constructed at a cost of $64,000 and it will require many thousands of dollars to place it in condition again. When the superintendent and his men reached the bottom of the shaft it was found that the mine was not on fire and that it would be possible to reach the men as soon as the mine was made safe enough for exploration. Soon after this John H. Jones, president of the Pittsburg-Buffalo company, D.G. Jones, secretary, expert miners and other officials arrived on a special train from Pittsburg via Monongahela. The president of the company went at once to the mouth of shaft No. 1 and awaited the return of Superintendent Beeson and his men from the foot of the shaft. Discarding his coat and his other business attire, President Jones, with his overcoat, gum boots, miner's cap and gloves soon descended the shaft accompanied by the superintendent, Fire Boss Joseph Kennedy and others. This man who knows mining as no other man in the Pittsburg district, who knows his mines and who has faith in this great masterpiece appeared strong and brave. He was. There was no faint heart in his bosom, no unsteady nerves, no shaking footsteps. But he must have known ere he started down this dark shaft to the great tunnel below that his men were not alive. When he came back he looked sorrowful--for the situation was clear to him then. The men were dead--they could not have possibly lived. His work was to begin the rescue of their bodies just as quickly as it was possible to secure the relief.

Many Flock to Scene.
Physcians and undertakers from all the nearby towns and the country-side had been called to the mine. For hundreds of feet around the Rachel shaft ropes were stretched for a radius of from 50 to 100 feet. Outside of these ropes large crowds of people gathered--they were there as spectators to the tragedy. They were there, some of them, because their friends and neighbors were lost--they were there because they were interested or morbidly curious. The news of the disaster spread rapidly and all afternoon and evening the trains, specials and regulars, scores of automobiles and other conveyances brought thousands of people to the scene of the disaster. Several members of the state constabulary were pressed into service and besides the company had a large force of police to keep the crowds back from the ropes. But with the best efforts it was impossible to keep the way cleared. Inside the ropes squads of men were working--working hard and fast. Boilers of sandwiches and small tanks of coffee supplied the men with nourishment as they worked to clear the entrances to the shaft and prepare the scaffolding for the bodies to be laid on, when they were brought to the surface. It was at first decided to let a large platform down by means of a pulley and tackle into the shaft to bring up the bodies but later it was found more expedient to bring each one up separately. Stretchers and blankets were piled about the shaft entrance and it was not until late in the afternoon that the rescuing parties were sent down into the mine. Inspector Henry Louttit, President John N. Jones and General Superintendent A.C. Beeson were constantly in consultation. It was decided to have a complete inspection of the mine made before any efforts were taken toward bringing out the bodies. All the workings were to be explored and this was an easy matter as the mines are new and the diggings simply represent the cutting of entries, the headings and the preparations that are being made for the opening of the rooms for the excavation of coal. When darkness began to gather the safety lamps and lanterns were brought into use about the shaft--work was delayed and it was impossible to make haste. The company linesmen threw lines from poles around the areaway to the shaft opening and upon these miners; lamps were strung to throw light about the place where the men were preparing for the rescuing of bodies.

Overcome By Fire Damp
Shortly after 7 o'clock, Joseph Kennedy was brought to the surface overcome by the fire damp in the mine. He was one of the members of the rescue party. He was found by Samuel Cox, another member of the party and dragged 25 feet to the bottom of the shaft where he was hoisted to the surface and soon resuscitated. This added to the excitement about the mine. Government experts from Pittsburg were among the earliest to explore the mines. They were fully equipped for this special work, and they with the expert miners were the only ones permitted to go down, the mine. It was an anxious throng which stood about the shaft and outside the ropes in the dim moonlight all the evening waiting for some word from the mine. Coroner Sipe arrived early in the evening and he at once selected a jury and made arrangements to have an inquest over the bodies, when they should be brought to the surface. "No inquest will be held, however." said the coroner, "until we can get at the cause of this disaster. It will be probed from the bottom. The cause must be found out. There is something wrong. I will remain on the ground until the last body is taken out and make investigations as to the condition of things prior to the time the explosion took place." As the rescue party went down their names were taken by a clerk, who stood at the head of the shaft. Instructions were given that everybody be marked and its location in the mine, where found, so as to make identification as complete as possible and also to make it possible to work on some theory later on by knowing the exact places in the mine where the men met death.
[from the "Washington Observer," Washington, PA, Monday Morning, November 30, 1908.]

The Washington Observer
It was reported about the mine today, that James Josinki, Vorinki Salinki, and Antonio Orhasillna three men charged with the stabbing of a foreigner at West Zollarsville on the night of Nov. 3 had met their doom in the mine explosion yesterday. This report could not be confirmed however, as the men's check numbers were not known. The three men were released from the charge by the coroner's jury some time ago.

From the "Washington Observer," Washington, PA, Monday Morning, November 30, 1908
MINE INSPECTOR IS COMPLETELY AT SEA
Washington Observer, Nov. 30, 1908, page 1
Henry W. Louttit Can Advance No Theory as to Cause of Marianna Disaster--tells Experiences of the Black Saturday. "I will not theorize on the cause of this explosion," said Henry Louttit, mine inspector of this district, late Saturday evening, after he had some few moments to think about the matter. "Perhaps after it is all over and I can sit down and think--think clearly--I may be able to give some theory to work on. I am absolutely dumbfounded. I had been inspection the mine all day Friday, at intervals of every half hour. I started in to do the same thing Saturday and had made several inspections of the mine. I found some gas there--it is found in all these mines, but there were no accumulations of gas. I had been all through the mine in the morning and had not left the workings and came to the surface until the explosion took place. "The mine was considered by experts to be the best in the world, it was the best in the sense that it was supposed to be safe. That is the fundamental thing about a mine--it's safety for the miners and the Pittsburg-Buffalo company had this thing in view when its men constructed this mine. I know that there is an abandoned gas well in the field of this coal development. But the engineers know these gas fields and the limits of the gas pools. No part of the mine was within 50 feet radius of the outside limits of any gas pool. "In fact I do not know what caused the explosion. But it was a terrific one. It came with great force. I had just stepped off the cage and started to make an inspection of the engines. I had intended to go up to the top of the steel derrick and inspect it. Why I did not go there first instead of the engines I do not know. Ten minutes later I would have been there and you know what would have happened to me then. I certainly was fortunate both coming and going. Had I even thought there was any danger in that mine do you suppose I would have permitted Thompson and the other men to go on the cage which brought me up to the surface and as it turned out, to safety."
[from the "Washington Observer," Washington, PA, Monday Morning, November 30, 1908.]

From the "Washington Observer," Washington, PA,  November 30, 1908, pg. 1

Relief Fund for The Families of Marianna Victims. The latest estimate in regard to the Marianna disaster places the number of victims at 130. Of this number probably half are of English speaking races. It is probably that a large percentage of the dead leave families and other dependent on them. Some of these people need immediate relief. The Observer Publishing company has started a relief fund and will receive and properly account for any subscriptions. Following are the contributors up to date: Observer Publishing Co. ...........$25.00 Citizens Water Co. ..................... 25.00 The A. B. Caldwell Co. ............... 5.00 Reporter employes .................. 5.00 Observer employes .................. 5.00 Union Labor Journal .................. 1.00 Casino Theatre .................. 25.00

From the "Washington Observer," Washington, PA,  Nov. 30, 1908, pg. 1
COURAGEOUS BOY AT HOISTING MACHINE
With His Brother a Corpse in the Pit Below Edward Thomas Refused to Leave His Post--Mother of Dead Man Frantic. Marianna, Nov. 29.--For sticking to his post of duty without any sleep while his brother lay a corpse in the bottom of the ill-fated shaft Edward Thomas received the commendation of every miner about the works today. Young Thomas is employed at the hoisting machine which has been in use in lowering and raising the men to and from the depths of this pit. All day Saturday he was found at his post and all that night and all day today Thomas was still found with his hand on the wheel which lowered the cage and on whose steadiness largely depended the lives of those in the bucket. William Thomas, the brother now dead who was aged 19 years, had been employed at the hoisting engine some weeks ago but owing to a slight accident had given up the work. He had been without work and on Saturday morning Mrs. Thomas persuaded her son to seek work at the mines again. He did and secured work in the pit as motorman. He had been at his new work less than a half day when his life was crushed out. Knowing that his brother's life was snuffed out and expecting to see his dead body brought up the cage every time it came to the surface young Thomas refused to give his position to any person else. Mrs. Thomas, who persuaded her son to go to the mines, was almost distracted upon hearing the sad news and all of last night was kept under the influence of ether.

The Most Complete and Up-to-Date Mine in the World--Damaged Shaft Will at Once be Restored. The coal works of the Pittsburg-Buffalo Company where occurred the frightful gas explosion Saturday are recognized as being the most extensive in the world. The plant is located at the new town of Marianna, about midway between Zollarsville and Martin's Mills on Upper Ten Mile creek in West Bethlehem township. In August, 1906, the work of putting down the shaft of the Rachel mine was commenced and the following winter similar work was begun at the Agnes mine, a short distance south-west of the former. The Pittsburg vein of coal was reached at a depth of 460 feet, both shafts being completed at nearly the same time. In July last a force of men was put to work sinking a shaft at what is known as the Blanche mine, about three-fourths of a mile south-west of the Agnes mine on the Shidler farm and in a line with both the others. The air and supply shaft, by means of which the Rachel and Agnes mines are run, which was badly damaged in the explosion Saturday morning, was put down soon after the one at the Rachel mine was finished, and recently underground, connection was made between the two shafts. the firm of Patterson and O'Neil, was the contractor on the two shafts, both of which were damaged by the explosion.

From the "Washington Observer," Washington, PA, Monday Morning, November 30, 1908

Of 125 Men In Depths of Marianna Mine, One Lives to Tell of Ordeal Gruesome Scenes of Weary Night and Day As With Ceaseless Toil Bodies of Victims Are Brought to the Surface--Friends and Relatives Await about Great Fires For Some News of the Loved Ones Lying Cold At Pit's Bottom.

CORONER SIPE NAMES JURY AND WILL MAKE THOROUGHT INVESTIGATION

Marianna, Nov. 30, --2:30 a.m.

Sixty-one bodies have been recovered from the ill-fated collieries and the work of rescue is going steadily on. The men are working in alternating shifts and rapid progress is being made. Shortly after midnight Coroner Sipe stated that in his opinion the majority of the dead would be recovered by Monday evening or Tuesday morning. The burial of the identified dead will be started today. the crowd of curious sightseers has dwindled. Gathered around the big fires burning near, the shaft mouth are possibly 100 friends and relatives of victims whose remains have not yet been brought to the surface, sad hearted, heavy eyed watchers wearily waiting the time when their loved ones shall be carried to the improvised morgue. Mrs. W.J. Holsing, wife of the assistant general manager; Mrs. D.G. Jones, wife of the general manager, and Mrs. Charles DeWald, sister of Francis Forham, are on the ground tonight assisting the works and furnishing food for the parties of rescuers as they come to the surface. Marianna, Nov. 29--This was the most fearful Sunday the little mining town of Marianna has ever seen in its brief existence. It was a day of gruesome wearying work about the fatal hole when death had lifted its head in its most horrid form the day before, the day which will always be known as Black Saturday in the history of Marianna. The finding of one man alive when it was thought that every man in the mines was dead caused much excitement about the pit mouth and a renewed effort was made to explore every part of the workings at once. After some of the officials and miners had explored the workings of the shaft within 40 feet of the bottom William Adams, Samuel Cox, J.E. Kennedy, Richard Maize, E.F. Tolsed, Terry Risher, and William Underwood were among the first to offer their services and go to the bottom of the shaft. Among the others who followed into the bowels of the earth in a bucket lowered by means of a hoisting engine later in the night were Robert Cole, Robert Howard, Thomas Carney, George Jones, James Carroll, W.H. Kennedy, G.W. Wilkinson, John Lowry, Walter Cullinford, A.M. Johnston, Harry S. McKalup, C.F. McKay, J.M. Hopwood, John Riley, Patrick Dougan, Thomas Ferrell, Thomas Snowball, James Minn. Later during the night and morning volunteers were secured immediately upon the call of John H. Jones or D.G. Jones, who were at the scene of the disaster all the time directing the work of rescue. They often descended into the mine with the workmen. Shortly after midnight William Lockhart, superintendent of the Midland Mines of the Pittsburg coal company. Charles, Dewalt, master mechanic of the Hazel mine near Canonsburg, and Francis Fechan, president of the United Mine Workers of District No. 5, descended and assisted in the work of rescue. New recruits were sent into the mine as the first rescuers would come to the surface. the mine was explored very carefully for fear of fire. Knowing that every man who entered the mine took his life in his hand the Messrs. Jones warned every recruit before he was called on to enter the mine. The reports from the men as they came to the surface throughout the night and early morning were of the most gruesome character, although the rescuers attempted to keep the awfulness of the catastrophe from the general public and those who were waiting on the outside for some ray of hope from the interior of the mine. Some of these anxious ones had sons, others husbands, and some sweethearts in the workings. The work of the rescuers seemed slow to those waiting on the outside, especially after one man had been recovered alive after all hopes had been given up by the officials of the mines every precaution was taken to prevent another explosion and brattice work was erected along the entries as they were explored. The work wearied on throughout the night. The spectacle of the persons who had friends in the mines was a sad one. These anxious ones gathered about the huge wood fires which had been built in all sections of the coal company's properties. Scarcely a group was seen which did not contain some one who was watching for the body of a friend to be brought from the pit in the large iron bucket. The work kept steadily on until the break of day, when the first body was brought to the surface. This was done at 6:15. Dr. T.R. Thomas, of Johnetta works near Waychoff, and Dr. Floyd Cobb, company physician at the Marianna works, had charge of the bodies as they were brought from the mine. Nothing further was done toward bringing the bodies to the surface until 11:12. Among the mine superintendents who were assisting Lee Jones in District No. 16; David Young of District No. 17; Mr. Maixe, of VanVoorhis; Mr. McIntyre, of the Pittsburg and Westmoreland coal company; Mr. Holladay, of Ellsworth; and various superintendents from the River combine company. The first body recovered was that of Henry Thompson, a machinist, who stepped upon the cage just as the explosion occurred and whose body was hurled high into the air. Thompson was killed at the top of Shaft No. 2. About 700 yards from where Thompson met his death was found a human head, which one of the miners said was that of Charles McElrath. Nearby lay a gloved hand. When the explosion occurred three men working on the temporary tipples and scaffolding were injured. Their hurts while painful were not considered serious. They were Russell Michener, S.W. Vance and Joseph Santella. Coroner Sipe had charge of the bodies after they were taken to the boiler house. After they were washed the bodies were removed to an improvised morgue, where the friends were admitted in order to identify as many as possible. Yesterday evening Coroner Sipe named the following men for the jury which will hear the evidence and fix the blame. If there be any, as to the cause of this terrible disaster: John McCuen, John Gayman, Charles Theakston, Jesse Bigler, Henry Hathaway, and Joseph Morton, all of West Bethlehem township. All these men were present today ready to do their duty. It is likely that all the bodies will not be taken from the mine for at least two days and that the coroner's inquest will not be held until some date later set by the coroner. Debris covers a large number of the bodies and this has hindered in the speedy removal of them. It was reported today that the extreme inner workings of the mine were on fire, but none of the officials would confirm the report. One of the mine inspectors was the authority for the statement that some fire did exist in the mine, but it was not of an alarming nature. He also said that the rescuers did not care to take a chance of going beyond this line.

WAS REMARKABLE IN MANY RESPECTS

A Few Moments After Catastrophe the Situation Was Known and Suspense Was Over--Absence of Women and Children. Marianna, Nov. 29, --The Marianna disaster was most remarkable not only because the experts are unable to determine its cause, but because of the fact that within a very few minutes after the catastrophe the situation was known and the suspense was over. Within a few hours at the very least the officials were certain that while one did seemingly miraculously escape death in the mine, the end must have come to the men within a very few minutes after the explosion, if not instantly. Another remarkable feature in connection with the situation after the explosion was the absence of those harrowing and pathetic scenes which are usually enacted by the loved ones of those who are buried in t the mines. The crowd about the shaft was extremely quiet. When The Observer force of correspondents arrived on the ground a few hours after the explosion the men about the shaft were quietly at work doing everything that could be done. The crowd about was orderly and quiet. There were no weeping women, no frantic wives and children crowding the ropes to see or to interfere with the work. The fact of the matter is that most, if not all, of the wives and families of those working in the Marianna mines do not reside here. One woman did make a scene, but only one--she acted as if she was crazy. She said she had a husband and two sons down there. No wonder she was crazy. She was a foreigner, but she had a heart--and she loved her family--and it is the experience of those who have been at mine disasters that the families of the foreigners feel even more keenly and poignantly the loss which comes to them in a calamity of this kind. Away from their native land, unable to speak the language of the country of their adoption their families are often dearer and nearer to them than those of our Americans. In these Marianna mines were some of the best miners that the Pittsburg-Buffalo company had. They were brought there from Canonsburg, Monongahela, Catsburg and other points. Half of them at least were Americans. they left their wives and families behind--those of them who were married. Into these mines had gone the pick and flower of the Pittsburg-Buffalo company miners. here was the model mine. here it was that the best work was to be executed in the preparation for the mining of millions of tons of coal in the years of the future. The work which is being done there is preparatory work. There are no chambers where the coal has been taken out, no intricate rooms--the work done show simply the great paths which work the course of the mine for its future operations--and in this work the best were chosen to perform it. Thus the company not only loses the services of its fine body of miners, chosen from the most expert and experienced, but the world at large--civilization--loses citizens who knew their duty and were performing it not only for the money they received, but because they were interested in a duty which they also believed was to the interests of the miners of the future.

From the "Washington Observer," Washington, PA, Monday Morning, November 30, 1908

LIST OF THE DEAD

The list of the dead up-to-date as gathered from the partial identification of the bodies brought to the surface is as follows:

(1) John Ivill, Married Nov. 4, 1908, aged 23 years; resided in Monongahela, employed as assistant machine boss. Death resulted from suffocation. Cousin of John H. Jones.

(2) Mike Slovinsho, Italian body badly mutilated. Identified by check number on company books. Lived at Marianna.

(3) Unidentified foreigner, leg torn off, head blown to atoms, body burned, and clothes torn off. (4) Owen Borns, American, burned about head and face, left arm broken. Identified by check No. 896.

(5) Unidentified foreigner, head crushed.

(6) Unidentified body, literally torn to pieces, nothing but portion of trunk left.

(7) Ditto.

(8) Unidentified foreigner, no check number. Hands burned. Death resulted from suffocation.

(9) Milt Eckenrode, foreigner, aged about 35 years. Identified by tattoo name on arm and also by check number.

(10) Foreigner, known as "Donegal," resided at Galiagher boarding house. Death resulted from fractured skull.

(11) Doninick Qualiero, Italian, identified by tattooed name under arm, and also check No. 215.

(12) Unidentified foreigner, portion of trunk left, one leg, and a portion of head. All clothing torn from body.

(13) Charles Tahaney, foreigner, skull crushed, leg broken. Identified by receipt in purse.

(14) Mike Lapine, face burned, death due to suffocation. Identified from check.

(15) Frank Tebery, foreigner, leg broken, head crushed, upper portion of body burned. Identified by check number.

(16) Unidentified body, with both legs broken, and badly burned.

(17) Unidentified body, disemboweled, left leg torn off, arm broken, top of head blown off.

(18) Unidentified, both legs broken. Death due to suffocation.

(19) Unidentified, disemboweled, head blown off, one foot gone.

(20) John Tedroff, miner identified with check number.

(21) Unidentified body, badly burned.

(22) Unidentified American, crushed about the head; check number 19.

(23) James Henderson, mine foreman, survived by wife and several children, resided at Ellsworth; head blown off.

(24) Frank Egon, aged 30, suffocated. (25) George Ackers, negro, aged 30 years; leaves wife, formerly Miss Bennett of Centerville, death due to suffocation.

(26) Unidentified foreigner, disemboweled, leg broken, check number 179.

(27) John Joedsky, skull crushed; identified by check number. (28) John Donesty, leg broken, death due to suffocation; identified by check.

(29) Unidentified.

(30) Unidentified.

(31) Unidentified.

(32) Unidentified.

(33) Unidentified.

(34) Alec Toorse, identified by check.

(35) Unidentified.

(36) Richard Ciatt, identified by check number. Wore diamond ring and gold ring.

(37) Unidentified.

(38) Unidentified.

(39) Sam Samtum.

(40) Unidentified.

(41) Unidentified.

(42) George Lannoss, head blown off. Identified by paper in pocket.

(43) Unidentified.

(44) Pat Donlin, identified to friends.

(45) Bunerain Asrey, identified by check. (46) Henry Thompson, aged 48, married; leaves wife and 8 children; lived in Marianna.

(47) Unidentified.

(48) Unidentified.

(49) Alex Bosewitch, foreigner, identified by friend. In addition to these there have been brought up 12 unidentified bodies.

Some Known to Have Been In Ill-Fated Mine. Marianna, Nov. 29,--Among others whose bodies are known to be in the ill-fated mine and whose friends were on the ground all day awaiting some word of their condition are: Senior Lee, of West Monongahela, who has a wife and nine children. Clarence Williams, of Monongahela, leader of the high school band and a great church and Y.M.C.A. worker. Aged 26 years. Edward Freyoenet, who resided in West Monongahela, had a wife and three children. John and Seward Bennington, of Monongahela. Allen Bolilock, boss driver, aged 26 years, married and leaves a wife and a babe one day old. Resided at Marianna. Ted and Harry Miller, sons of John Miller, aged 16 and 19 years respectively. Resided at Marianna. John Holmes, aged 22 motorman. James Rule and two sons. Trevor Williams, aged 25, married and leaves babe four days old.

The news of the awful disaster at Marianna Saturday was received with sincere sorrow on the part of the people of Washington. the news of the catastrophe was so appalling and the loss of life so great that it shocked every one who heard of it. The news quickly spread around town and The Observer's telephone was kept busy answering calls for the latest news. It had a sobering effect upon the people and expressions of sympathy for the dead and bereaved were heard on all sides. the disaster was the chief subject of conversation on the streets and in the homes of Washington. Yesterday in the local churches many of the pastors referred to the disaster in their sermons and all of them offered most fervent prayers for the breaved relatives of those who lost their lives. Many of the prayers were touching in the extreme.

Monongahela will do its full share toward swelling the Marianna relief fund to be given for the families of the mine victims of Saturday. A committee composed of Frank Colvin, Frank Wickerham and Fred F. Cooper, has been appointed to receive and solicit funds and subscriptions for the stricken residents of Marianna. It is expected that funds raised in Monongahela will do justice to a mining community where the full horror of a situation such as that which faces Marianna's population is realized. November 30, 1908 Narrow Escape of Superintendent Alexander C. Beeson Had Come Out of Mine But a Few Moments Before the Explosion Occurred. One of the men who had a very narrow escape from death was Alexander C. Beeson, engineer and general superintendent of the Marianna mines. He had come up just a few minutes before Inspector Loutitt. Ordinarily he would have been down in the mine as it is his custom to remain there during the morning. "I had a narrow escape," said Mr. Beeson, late in the afternoon, when he had a few moments to talk, after having spent the entire afternoon in the mine and in making plans for the rescue of the men. "It was just 10:15 when I stopped to inquire from one of the bosses of the mine what time of day it was. I had been making an inspection of the mine and had intended going further. It struck me that it was pay day and that it would be a busy afternoon for the office force and as I had some correspondence to do, I decided to go up and attend to it before the afternoon. I took the cage which preceded the one taken by Inspector Henry Loutitt. I had not been up more than five or ten minutes when I heard the explosion and I knew that something terrible had happened down that mine." Superintendent Beeson was everywhere during the afternoon and night. He was the first to descend the shaft. On one of his trips he took a chill but kept on the job and directed the work of the rescue during the night and the succeeding day. Beeson has been the engineer for the Pittsburg-Buffalo company for several years. He is a graduate of W. & J. college, class of '97. His wife was Miss Harriett Reed, daughter of C.M. Reed, and she stood during most of the afternoon with the throng of people outside the ropes anxiously waiting for the news from the mine.

Fourth of His Family to Meet A Violent Death West Newton, Pa., Nov. 30,--Henry D. Thompson, master machinist, at the ill-fated Marianna mine, who is numbered among the dead, was the last of four brothers who lost their lives by violence. The Thompson family resided at Shaner Station, near here, the father and mother being dead. The father had been a mine foreman at one time and his sons followed in the footsteps of their father. Henry, David, Alexander and Guy, the four brothers, were men of gigantic strength and stature and showed a fondness for work in mines. David Thompson was suffocated in the Guffey mine along with another miner about 15 years ago near West Newton. He and a companion were found lying dead in an entry, having been suffocated. Alexander Thompson was killed about 10 years ago in a mine at Monongahela, Pa. Guy Thompson was employed at a sawmill attached to the Klondike mine near Uniontown. He was caught in machinery while at work about three years ago. One arm was torn from his body and, after walking a short distance carrying the severed member, he fell dead. The last brother to succumb was Henry D. Thompson, who was blown out of the cage on Saturday morning, when the terrible explosion took place at the Marianna mine. Four sisters survive the brothers.

President Jones Says Company Will Provide Ground. Marianna, Nov. 30,--"We haven't considered the burial features," said President John H. Jones, of the Pittsburg-Buffalo company today. "We will do anything the relatives or friends of the victims designate. There are, I understand, one or two Catholic cemeteries near here large enough to hold the men of that creed. Possibly half of the dead men were foreigners and supposedly of the Catholic faith. "However, if any wish we will gladly furnish land for a cemetery. We will do anything in our power for any and all."

December 1, 1908, pg. 1

121 BODIES HAVE BEE BROUGHT UP FROM MARIANNA WORKINGS;

INQUEST TO BE HELD DECEMBER 10

At Least Six More Victims in Mine's Depths, But It Is Thought the Rescue Work Will Be Completed Today.

SOLE SURVIVOR HAS CHANCE FOR RECOVERY

Wife and Family Now on Ocean Coming to America--Chief Mine Inspector Will Make Thorough Investigation Today. Marianna, Dec 1--12:05 a.m.--At this hour this morning 121 bodies have been removed from the ill fated shafts of the Pittsburg-Buffalo company. At midnight the works were shut down and no more bodies will be removed until daylight when the shifts will enter the mine to complete their work in removing the bodies. It is believed by the officials that the mines will give up at least six more victims. When the mines were closed this morning all of the available bodies had been brought out and those left are the stragglers, probably covered by debris, John H. Jones stated at midnight that he was positive that the rescue work would be completed today, including what bodies are covered by the falling timbers and debris. The rescue work was stopped in order that the men who had been working faithfully for upwards of 48 hours might get some rest.

use three of her sons were employed there: of another poor woman who on reaching the mine and finding that her husband and two sons were entombed became violently insane and had to be held to prevent her doing hurt to her own body; and further that the foreman who was hurled from the shaft to instant death left a wife and eight children. These men gave their lives for humanity while doing a part of the world's necessary work. Those dependent upon them should be taken care of just as the widows and children of the old soldiers are provided for by a grateful nation. This can be done without imposing a burden on the community. A tax of one cent per ton on the coal produced in Pennsylvania will raise $1,000,000 annually. That would be less than four cents upon each hundred bushels which is as much as an average family will use in a year. The tax will fall uniformly upon the consumers widely scattered through-out the country. It would not be a burden to anyone. But the objection is made that it would be socialistic in its tendency. If that be true then we believe that more people have sympathy with some of the socialistic doctrines that is commonly thought. Washington county has more coal of the Pittsburg vein under its soil that any other county in the union possesses. Ninety-seven per cent of its area is underlain by this best of all bituminous fuel. It is to be the scene and the centre of the most extensive coal operations the world has ever seen. The development is really only beginning. This is the time to study the matter and decide what the duty of the community is toward the unfortunate men injured in the mines and the dependent ones left by those who lose their lives in such appalling disasters as that which occurred at Marianna on Saturday.

The Washington Observer Monday, November 30, 1908.

The Mine Disaster.

In its issue of November 17 The Observer chronicled the particulars of an accident at the Ellsworth mine by which six men were swept into eternity in the twinkling of an eye.

Today it tells of the greatest disaster in the history of the county and one of the most remarkable in the history of coal mining.

Remarkable because it occurred in a new mine planned by the best engineering skill on scientific principles and equipped with the most modern appliances to avoid just such a calamity as occurred.

A two day inspection by a trained official of 20 years experience had discovered nothing to cause apprehension and mining experts are puzzled to account for the terrific explosion which blotted out not less than 125 lives.

It is for these reasons that we speak of this disaster as remarkable. Its occurrence but emphasizes the danger of the business of mining soft gas coal, particularly where it is necessary to shaft for it and that must be done in the greater part of Washington and Greene counties. Two thoughts come to us as we consider this awful calamity: how can similar disasters be guarded against in the future and what is the duty of the community to those who are dependent on the men who lost their lives? First we must have laws providing for the most complete and scientific study and investigation of the causes of these explosions, we must have the most rigid inspection and thorough enforcement of every statute designed to protect life and lastly we must punish with certainty and severity every one, employer or employee, who violates the mining laws. Familiarity breeds contempt and some men who are in the constant presence of death are sometimes willing to take chances. Sooner or later the man who takes chances meets with trouble. And about providing for those who depended on the men whos lives were snuffed out.

We read in the accounts of this dreadful disaster of one woman, a widow, who hurried to the mine from Monongahela because three of her sons were employed there: of another poor woman who on reaching the mine and finding that her husband and two sons were entombed became violently insane and had to be held to prevent her doing hurt to her own body; and further that the foreman who was hurled from the shaft to instant death left a wife and eight children.

These men gave their lives for humanity while doing a part of the world's necessary work.

Those dependent upon them should be taken care of just as the widows and children of the old soldiers are provided for by a grateful nation.

This can be done without imposing a burden on the community.

A tax of one cent per ton on the coal produced in Pennsylvania will raise $1,000,000 annually.

That would be less than four cents upon each hundred bushels which is as much as an average family will use in a year.

The tax will fall uniformly upon the consumers widely scattered through-out the country.

It would not be a burden to anyone.

But the objection is made that it would be socialistic in its tendency.

If that be true then we believe that more people have sympathy with some of the socialistic doctrines that is commonly thought.

Washington county has more coal of the Pittsburg vein under its soil that any other county in the union possesses.

Ninety-seven per cent of its area is underlain by this best of all bituminous fuel.

It is to be the scene and the centre of the most extensive coal operations the world has ever seen.

The development is really only beginning.

This is the time to study the matter and decide what the duty of the community is toward the unfortunate men injured in the mines and the dependent ones left by those who lose their lives in such appalling disasters as that which occurred at Marianna on Saturday.

December 2, 1908

WORK OF RESCUE AT STRICKEN MARIANNA PRACTICALLY FINISHED

List of the Dead Now Numbers 137; More May Be Found.

Marianna, Dec. 1, --The death list of the Marianna disaster numbers 137, two of which number, were killed on the surface while 135 men met their death at the bottom of the shafts 456 feet below the surface. It is now believed that not more than ten bodies will yet be found in the mines when the falls have been removed and the water pumped out.

It was thought last night that the list would not be increased when 124 had been removed but this morning 11 more bodies were discovered. The number is now 10 above the estimate made by the company officials. The search has not been discontinued. Some of the falls were explored today and some few bodies found. The mine is in much better condition that the officials expected to find it and it is not likely that many bodies will be found under the falls. However, it is expected that bodies will be removed from this charnel house occasionally for the next week.

J.E. Roderick, the chief state mine inspector, of Harrisburg, was on the ground again today and directed that nothing in the mine be disturbed until after the inspection is made. This inspection will not be made, however, until next week.

The body of William Hopkins, who was employed as fire boss at Marianna, was shipped last night to Houtzdale, where the interment will be made.

The body of John Ivill, Jr., was shipped this morning to Greenoak, where the funeral took place today.

The funeral of Mike Wickovick, who died at the hospital Saturday afternoon, from injuries received at Marianna, took place this afternoon. the interment was made at St. Mary's cemetery.

THE WASHINGTON OBSERVER

Bodies of Victims Are Being Removed By the Relatives

Marianna, Dec. 1.--At a late hour this evening 56 bodies which were identified had been removed from the morgue by friends and relatives of the dead men. Several more bodies have been identified but have not been claimed by relatives while several others have been identified by relatives who will have the bodies removed tomorrow.

All of the bodies have been embalmed and are in good condition with few exceptions. It was at first thought that a burying ground would be opened on the property of the Pittsburg-Buffalo company and those bodies which were not identified interred there. This was later given up and the relatives are now taking the bodies to whatever cemetery they wish and the Pittsburg-Buffalo company is paying all expenses. The men will all be given a decent burial, much beyond the burial usually given the unidentified miners on such an occasion.

The Pittsburg-Buffalo company purchased caskets at wholesale for $65 each. If the friends are not satisfied with this casket they are given the opportunity to have it changed for a better one and the company will pay the difference in price. The company also directed the friends and relatives to purchase lots in any cemetery and have the bill sent to the company. So far all the relatives and friends have been satisfied with the caskets and none has asked for more expensive ones.

Tomorrow a car load of bodies which have been identified will be taken to Cokeburg, where the interment will be made. At that place there is an Italian cemetery and today many graves were dug there. Other bodies have been taken to Washington, Canonsburg, Monongahela, or to the former homes of the miners.

Following is the official list of the bodies which have been identified and removed from the morgue as given out late this evening by the officials in charge:

John J. Ivill, aged 23;
Owen Burns, aged 23;
William Hopkins, aged 38;
Charles Tehaney, aged 40;
John Beadling, aged 52;
Alex. Smith, aged 35;
Robert Spence, aged 25;
William Spence, aged 29;
Jake Sizmiki;
Walter Eckenroad, aged 33;
Samuel Sifton, aged 53;
Joshua Madison, aged 38;
John Federal; George Tamalin;
Charles France, aged 60;
George Reno;
Ira Lanndean;
Richard Piatt, aged 53;
William Platt, aged 26;
Francis Ferguson, aged 40;
John Zoskelicki, aged 27;
Morris Rodier, aged 36;
Joe Holmes, aged 26;
Mike Novenski, aged 42;
Peter Arnold, aged 27;
Mike Vale, aged 22;
John Melozoski, aged 44;
Martin Stowaiga, aged 36;
George Aikens, aged 39;
Senior Lee, aged 45;
Joe Folia, aged 33;
Augustus Silvestus, aged 20;
Thomas McDine, aged 24;
Albert Smarta;
John Zallnickik, aged 30;
Steven Bernardney, aged 31;
John Evans, aged 45;
Robert Crawford, aged 40;
Charles Austin, Jr., aged 21;
Allen Burlock, aged 27;
Mike Evanns, aged 23;
Alex. Behanna, aged 30;
William Thomas, aged 23;
Mike Morris, aged 28;
Mike Stevens, aged 22;
John Epinnichec, aged 21;
Mike Stantobick, aged 25;
Joe Sarkichika, aged 25;
Phil Trsaska, aged 24;
Valentine Plasteuak, aged 27;
Harry Miller, aged 16;
Alfred Mackin, aged 18;
Arthur Beeves, aged 33;
John Jacogika, aged 33.

Among the other bodies identifed and which were not removed from the morgue this evening are:

Peter Hagas, Alex Borish, Charles Durblin, John Grina, Philip Bruno,

William Drenier, John Matoske, Tim Rule, James Henderson, Domenick

Quagliero, Frank Teberry, Frank Egon, Mike Lapine, Patrick Donlin, Buezanna

Afrey, Alex. Bosiwich, Eigant Uszana, George Keeker, Peter Reinoelty, Joe

Greisinger, Frank Ledoff, Steven Selakovic.

The bodies of the two men who were killed on the outside of the works, Henry Thompson and James Joaaf, were taken to Monongahela the day of the esplosion and have been interred. Up to the present time upwards of 100 bodies have been identified.

December 7, 1908

ILL-FATED MARIANNA MINE GIVES UP FIVE MORE BODIES

The Remains of Seven Other Victims of Awful Disaster Found Under Heap of Debris in Depths of Workings.

DEATH LIST IS NOW OVER 150

Work of Cleaning Out Shafts Pushed With All Possible haste Probable that Mine Will Resume First of Year.

Marianna, Dec. 6,--The ill-fated marianna mine continues to give up its dead. Since Saturday morning five bodies have been taken from the mine and it is stated on the authority of the engineer in charge of the work, that there are still seven bodies in the workings.

The first of the five bodies brought to the surface Saturday was that of an Italian. It has not yet been identified. This body was brought to the surface Saturday morning. The bodies of the other four victims were brought out during last night. They were taken to the morgue this morning. The finding of these five bodies raises the total number of fatalities to 144 and if there are seven more bodies in the mine the total list of dead will be 151.

The first of the four bodies brought to the surface last night was identifed as that of James J. Roule. He was a resident of Monongahela, was single and about 18 years of age. Through an oversight this body was taken to Monongahela before being viewed by the coroner's jury. It is probable that it will be brought back before burial.

The second body was that of Andy Kubacki. He was married and lived at East Marianna. He leaves a wife and five children.

The fourth body taken out last night has not yet been identified.

The five bodies last taken out were found near the foot of Agnes Shaft No. 2. They were so completely covered with debris that they could not be seen. They were found while the work of clearing out the passageway was in progress. It is stated that the seven bodies will be brought up to the surface tomorrow morning.

The bodies of 12 of the unidentified victims were interred in the Scenery Hill cemetery, yesterday. Arrangements have been made for the interment of 21 more of the bodies tomorrow.

The work of clearing out the shafts and getting the mine in readiness for the resumption of work, goes on as rapidly as possible under the circumstances. It is nor thought likely that the mine will be ready for operation before the first of the coming year.

Bodies of Victims Are Being Removed By the Relatives Marianna, Dec. 1, 1908.

At a late hour this evening 56 bodies which were identified had been removed from the morgue by friends and relatives of the dead men. Several more bodies have been identified but have not been claimed by relatives while several others have been identified by relatives who will have the bodies removed tomorrow. All of the bodies have been embalmed and are in good condition with few exceptions. It was at first thought that a burying ground would be opened on the property of the Pittsburg-Buffalo company and those bodies which were not identified interred there. This was later given up and the relatives are now taking the bodies to whatever cemetery they wish and the Pittsburg-Buffalo company is paying all expenses. The men will all be given a decent burial, much beyond the burial usually given the unidentified miners on such an occasion. The Pittsburg-Buffalo company purchased caskets at wholesale for $65 each. If the friends are not satisfied with this casket they are given the opportunity to have it changed for a better one and the company will pay the difference in price. The company also directed the friends and relatives to purchase lots in any cemetery and have the bill sent to the company. So far all the relatives and friends have been satisfied with the caskets and none has asked for more expensive ones. Tomorrow a car load of bodies which have been identified will be taken to Cokeburg, where the interment will be made. At that place there is an Italian cemetery and today many graves were dug there. Other bodies have been taken to Washington, Canonsburg, Monongahela, or to the former homes of the miners. Following is the official list of the bodies which have been identified and removed from the morgue as given out late this evening by the officials in charge: John J. Ivill, aged 23; Owen Burns, aged 23; William Hopkins, aged 38; Charles Tehaney, aged 40; John Beadling, aged 52; Alex. Smith, aged 35; Robert Spence, aged 25; William Spence, aged 29; Jake Sizmiki; Walter Eckenroad, aged 33; Samuel Sifton, aged 53; Joshua Madison, aged 38; John Federal; George Tamalin; Charles France, aged 60; George Reno; Ira Lanndean; Richard Piatt, aged 53; William Platt, aged 26; Francis Ferguson, aged 40; John Zoskelicki, aged 27; Morris Rodier, aged 36; Joe Holmes, aged 26; Mike Novenski, aged 42; Peter Arnold, aged 27; Mike Vale, aged 22; John Melozoski, aged 44; Martin Stowaiga, aged 36; George Aikens, aged 39; Senior Lee, aged 45; Joe Folia, aged 33; Augustus Silvestus, aged 20; Thomas McDine, aged 24; Albert Smarta; john Zallnickik, aged 30; Steven Bernardney, aged 31; John Evans, aged 45; Robert Crawford, aged 40; Charles Austin, Jr., aged 21; Allen Burlock, aged 27; Mike Evanns, aged 23; Alex. Behanna, aged 30; William Thomas, aged 23; Mike Morris, aged 28; Mike Stevens, aged 22; John Epinnichec, aged 21; Mike Stantobick, aged 25; Joe Sarkichika, aged 25; Phil Trsaska, aged 24; Valentine Plasteuak, aged 27; Harry Miller, aged 16; Alfred Mackin, aged 18; Arthur Beeves, aged 33; John Jacogika, aged 33. Among the other bodies identifed and which were not removed from the morgue this evening are: Peter Hagas, Alex Borish, Charles Durblin, John Grina, Philip Bruno, William Drenier, John Matoske, Tim Rule, James Henderson, Domenick Quagliero, Frank Teberry, Frank Egon, Mike Lapine, Patrick Donlin, Buezanna Afrey, Alex. Bosiwich, Eigant Uszana, George Keeker, Peter Reinoelty, Joe Greisinger, Frank Ledoff, Steven Selakovic. The bodies of the two men who were killed on the outside of the works, Henry Thompson and James Joaaf, were taken to Monongahela the day of the explosion and have been interred. Up to the present time upwards os 100 bodies have been identified.

RUMORED THAT REMAINS OF FIVE WERE QUIETLY REMOVED BEFORE DAYLIGHT
Marianna, Dec. 7, 1908.

While no additional bodies were brought to the morgue here today, the general belief prevails here that the remains of at least 15 to 18 victims are still in the workings. It is rumored, however, that five bodies were brought out of the mine before daylight this morning, though no trace of the mean can be found around the workings. An air of mystery seems to pervade the region round about the ill-fated Rachel and Agnes shafts. No longer is information volunteered as to conditions in the mine on the part of the workmen in charge. Coroner W.H. Sipe is no longer communicative and it is really difficult to learn anything about what is being done. Some days ago officials of the company gave out the death list as 138. It has gradually grown since that time until now it is practically certain that the list will overreach 150 and perhaps greatly exceed that number. Undertaker Barr, who has been on the scene since the day of the explosion stated today that he had not the least doubt that there were 15 to 18 bodies still in the shaft. Since the body of James Roule was taken out and was permitted to be removed before it was viewed by the coroner's jury the suspicion has arisen that possibly other bodies have been thus quietly taken away.

The Charleroi Mail, Charleroi, Washington Co., Pennsylvania, November 28, 1908, Vol. 9, No. 92 page 1: (done in 2 parts)

Explosion At Marianna, 200 Lost ---- Terrible Affair shortly Before Noon And Many Are Entombed Below Surface --- Mine Foreman Henry Compton Is The Only One Who Has Been Brought To Surface -- He Was Going Down When Explosion Came After Bringing Loutitt and Kennedy To The Top -- Hundreds Anxiously Awaiting --- 
(para) About Two Hundred miners in the Rachel shaft of the new Marianna mines are entombed as the result of an explosion this morning shortly before noon. But one person that was killed has been brought to the surface, Henry Compton, mine foreman, who was in the cage going down the shaft when the explosion occurred. A foreigner who was seriously hurt has been taken to the hospital at Monongahela. No word can be gotten to the ill fated ones in the mine and it is not known whether or not any of them are living, but it is hardly supposed that they could be alive, such was the force of the impact. Rescue parties have been rushed to the mouth, but cannot do anything as yet. Special trains containing officials of the company have been taken from Pittsburg to the mine, one leaving Monongahela about one o'clock. The reports of the terrible catastrophe are as yet very vague.
(para) The time of the castastrophe was 10:55 o'clock. The cause is not known. Just a few moments before the explosion Mine Inspector Loutitt and Joseph Kennedy of Monongahela, who have been spending the day at the new Marianna mines were brought to the surface by Mine Forman Henry Compton. After a very short time on the surface the mine foreman with a foreigner started down the shaft in the cage. They were little more than halfway down when the explosion came. The cage was blown to the top of the shaft. People came running from every direction and in a moment the ground nearby was black with people. The wrecked cage was found to contain the dead body of Compton, while the foreigner had in some manner escaped death, but he was injured, it is thought mortally. The timbers of the tipple were wrecked. The news spread like wild fire, and the residents of the near by towns, Zollarsville and Centerville flocked to the spot as fast as horses could carry them. Rescue parties were formed but they could do nothing.
(para) Messages were sent to Monongahela and Pittsburg for aid and a special train was sent from the latter place. It got to Monongahela at about 1 o'clock and gathering more of a load proceeded to the mine. No one was unable to get in the shaft, the opening being clogged by the debris of the explosions.
(para) There is no idea as to the cause of the explosion. The mine was evidently supposed to be in bad condition from the fact that Mine Inspector Henry Loutitt was spending the entire day in the place. He hardly expected the castastrophe however. The mine is but a new one which makes the explosion seem all the more strange. The conditions in it were generally thought to be good, and the mine officials are at a loss to account for the explosion. They will make an entrance to the mine as soon as possible, and if there are any of the miners alive, which is extremely doubtful, they will be brought out. It is hardly likely that an opening will be made for sometime, on account of the debris that was piled up.
(para) The Rachael is one of the largest in the world. There are two of the mines and both have but recently been opened. They were considered to be among the best fitted up and ventilated in the country.
(para) At the mouth of the mine as close as they can get are women and children who are anxiously awaiting news from loved ones who are supposed to be in the mines. The suspense is terrible and a large number of the women are now under the care of physicians who have been hustled to Marianna. The calamity is said to be one of the most terrible that has happened in this section for several years and even surpassing that of the Monogah catastrophe last year.
(para) Henry Compton, the mine foreman who was killed, has been taken to Bebout's undertaking rooms at Monongahela. Half of his head was blown off. He was well known along the river. He had been employed formerly at the Catsburg and Black Diamond mines.
(para) More undertakers were sent for from Monongahela at 2:30 o'clock and it is probable that they will leave in a special train later in the afternoon. This indicates that all that were in the mine are dead. (end)

The Charleroi Mail, Charleroi, Washington Co., Pennsylvania,  Monday November 30, 1908, Vol. 9 No. 93,    page 1:

More Bodies of Miners Brought To Surface --Superintendents Of Mines And Large Number of Experienced Men Go To Assist Rescuers--- Men Well Known In Charleroi And Some Who Formerly Lived Here Where (sic) Among Victims Of The Catastrophe --
(para) Today at two o'clock there had been 107 bodies taken out of the ill fated mine at Marianna and about eighty of these have been identified by friends and relatives. The list of those who were killed is now placed at 135. This is the official statement of some of the head men. Mr. John Jones thought at first that there were not quite that many but later developements (sic) have caused him to place the number at 135. Many of the bodies have been taken to Zollarsville. All this work is being done under the personal supervision of Coroner Sipe. None of the bodies have been interred yet, but will sometime this evening or tomorrow morning.
(para) This afternoon at 2 o'clock, a crew of experienced men under superintendents of various colleries along the river left in a special train for Marianna to aid in the work of resuing the bodies from the workings. The number includes some of the most practical mining men of the valley, all of whom should be able to most efficiently assist the parties who are already working at the mines. They will work in shifts until all of those who were caught in the explosion are known to be removed. There are probably sixty in the number that left Monongahela on the special train. The superintendents under whom they will work are [Mr.] Herron of Black Diamond and Catsburg; [Mr.] Dunbar of Gallatin; [Mr.] Peterson of Bunola; [Mr.] McMenemy of Cincinati.
(para) James Roderick, State mine inspector from Harrisburg went to Marianna today, making the trip from Pittsburg, where he arrived this morning. He got in the former place a short time after noon and is inspecting all parts of the workings where the explosion occurred, with a view of determining the real cause. He has issued no statement as yet. Mine Inspector Henry Loutitt of this district has been unable to account for the explosion. He has been at work on the grounds ever since the terrible affair occurred, and has had little rest. He does not talk much about the disaster but continues to aid the rescue parties in bringing bodies to the surface. He was almost paralyzed by the catastrophe, which happened so soon after he had left the shaft. He will assist Mr. Roderick in whatever investigations the latter will make. The general theory is that the explosion was caused by a gas pocket. 
(para) The rescuers worked all day yesterday and last night. They used the oxygen magazines. Of the number that has been taken out there is but one thus far that has been alive, and he will likely succumb to his injuries. This man is Fred Ellinger, who is now in the Memorial Hospital at Monongahela. He was taken to that place yesterday about noon, in a train that left Marianna at shortly before eleven o'clock. He was able to talk and gave a brief description of the explosion as he was able. He was thrown several feet he said and when he came to started in hunt of his buddies.
(para) Yesterday it is estimated that there were at least 5,000 people on the ground. These came in automobiles from the countryside from many miles around and by train. All the trains which left Monongahela during the day were packed to the fullest extent. There were many who went to assist the rescuers in their work. 
(para) When the explosion occurred three men working on the temporary tipples and scaffolding were injured. Their hurts while painful were not considered serious. Russell Michener, S. W. Vance and Joseph Sautella. (sic)
(para) Coroner sipe had charge of the bodies after they were taken to the boiler house. After they were washed the bodies were removed to an improvised morgue, where the friends were admitted in order to identify as many as possible. Yesterday evening Coroner Sipe named the following men for the jury which will hear the evidence and fix the blame, if there be any, as to the cause of this terrible disaster: John McCuen, John Gayman, Charles Theakston, Jesse Bigler, Henry Hathaway, and Joseph Morton, all of West Bethelehem (sic=Bethlehem) township. 
(para) All of these men were present today ready to do their duty. It is likely that all of the bodies will not be taken from the mines for at least two days and that the coroner's inquest will not be held until some date later set by the coroner. Debris covers a large number of the bodies and this has hindered in the speedy removal of them.
(para) In the mine at the time of the explosion there were several people well known in Charleroi. Some of them formerly lived here. Among this number are Joseph Homes, Joseph Gresinger, Robert Lockhart, Clarence Williams, John Bennington, Harry Bennington, Owen Burns and Richard Blat. Aikens, the only colored man in the mine was also well known among the people of his race in this place.
(para) A committee for the receiving of contributions for the families of Marianna victims has been formed at Monongahela, consisting of Frank Colvin, Fred F. Cooper and Frank D. Wickerham. One has also been formed at Washington and it is probable that some of the business men of this place will have a committee to secure funds. (end)
[NOTE: 10 men's names of dead listed in this article.]


Something About Mines -- At Marianna Were The Most Up To Date Workings In World -- (para) The coal works of the Pittsburg-Buffalo company where occurred the frightful gas explosion Saturday are recognized as being the most extensive in the world. The plant is located at the new town of Marianna about midway between Zollarsville and Martin's Mills on Upper Ten Mile creek in West Bethelhem (sic=Bethlehem) township. 
(para) In August, 1906, the work of putting down the shaft of the Rachel mine was commenced and the following winter similar work was begun at the Agnes mine, a short distance southwest of the former.
(para) The Pittsburg vein of coal was reached at a depth of 460 feet, both shafts being completed at nearly the same time. In July last a force of men was put to work sinking 
a shaft at what is known as the Blanche mine, about three-fourths of a mile southwest of the Agnes mine on the Shidler farm and in line with both the others. 
(para) The air and supply shaft, by means of which the Rachel and agnes mines are run, which was badly damaged in the explosion Saturday morning, was put down soon after the one at the Rachel mine was finished, and recently underground connection was made between the two shafts. The firm of Patterson and O'Neil was the contractor on the two shafts, both of which were damaged by the explosion.
(para) The company will begin in a short time to make repairs and it will probably be but a short time until the mines are again in operation. Connection will be made eventually with the Blanche mine.
(para) An emergency shaft will be placed between the Rachel and Agnes mines, work on it having been commenced last week. 
(para) At the present time the large power house on the hillside north of the Agnes mine is nearing completion. The company has a force of laborers at work on the building and in a few days the structure will be under roof. Three large engines of 45 horse power each were installed in the plant at the time the work was first commenced.
(para) The building is about 120 feet long and 80 feet in width. It is being built of brick, and when completed will be second to none in the country. The company will utilize the power generated at this place for various purposes, which have been completed and will be erected by the company for the use of the miners. The greater number of the houses erected for the employes (sic) are of brick of a good quality. The company made calculations on the total expense in advance both by building of brick and of wood and found the former in the long run would be less expensive.
(para) The coal, which is said to be of the best quality, is from six to seven feet in thickness.
(para) Last December coal was first mined at the works, when on the first day a large quantity of the black diamonds was shipped away, and since that time the average daily output has been 300 tons. 
(para) This coal, which is at present worth several thousand dollars per acre, was sold by farmers owning the surface, at the insignificant price of $20 an acre. One of the farmers stated yesterday that he thought it would be impossible to ever mine the coal, hence, any price at all was better than nothing. He also stated thay he would be slower in disposing of the Freeport vein of coal, which is from 10 to 12 feet in thickness. The Pittsburg-Buffalo company purchased the surface of both the Fulton and Shidler farms at about $10 an acre, after securing the coal from J. A. Ray, who purchased at the start from the owners of the surface.
(para) The dimensions of the Shafts of the Rachel and Agnes mines is each 36x24 feet and that of the Blanche mine is a trifle smaller. (end)
The Charleroi Mail, Charleroi, Washington Co., Pennsylvania, November 30, 1908,  page 2

The Terrible Mine Disaster -- The Terrible disaster Saturday at the new Marianna mine brings to us with a vividness that nothing else could the need of improvements and a more perfect system whereby the dangers which seem to be so great could be eliminated. The awfulness of the catastrophe; the suffering of the widows and children is terrible. Some are almost frantic with grief and others have lost their minds. The sadness of the scene cannot be depicted and no one knows but those who survive what is to be endured. The calamity has cast a gloom over the entire community for miles around and contributions are being made, the money to go toward aiding the widows and children who are left practically penniless and without a means of livelihood, by the sudden taking away of the ones who furnished their bread and butter. Thanksgiving, the miners did not work, spending the day with their families and friends. All was gayness; the next day suffering and death.
(para) The Marianna mine which were touted as being a model has proved to be a death trap. An astounding fact, indeed. Dangers menace even in the best of workings and where there is supposed to be least chance of accident. Whether it was negligence on someones (sic) part that was the primary cause of the disaster will probably never be known. But it is evident that there must surely have been something seriously wrong even at the time that Mine Inspector Loutitt was in the place. The theory of a gas pocket having been struck may be a good one and may be the true reason, for the catastrophe. Even if it was there should be some way provided so that similar catastrophes could be avoided in the future, in other mines.
(para) Charleroi people have special reason for extending ready sympathy and aid, as many of the miners of this place, or those who formerly resided here are among the dead. A large number are from Black Diamond and other places along the river. (end)





The Charleroi Mail, Charleroi, Washington Co., Pennsylvania, Tuesday Dec. 1, 1908,  Vol . 9 No. 94 page 1:

Arrangements Completed For Elk's Services -- Cornell Male Chorus Will Sing At Memorial Services -- Col. Crago Will Speak .... [Most of article not typed.] (abs) James Henderson - "The latter named man was killed in the Marianna mine disaster on Saturday." [rest of article not typed.]


Funeral of Henry Thompson - Henry Thompson the machine boss who was killed in the explosion at Marianna on Saturday was buried from the home of his daughter Mrs. Andrew Roth, in (sic) Carson street, Monongahela, yesterday afternoon. The funeral services were held at 3:30 o'clock and the interment followed in the Monongahela cemetery.
(para) The deceased was born in Ohio in 1857 and was 51 years of age. On March 31, 1871 he married Miss Mary Burgan, who together with the following children survive: Mrs. Roy Forsythe, Mrs. Emmit Forsythe, Mrs. Frank Pettit, Mrs. Andrew Roth, Mar, Harry and Ruth at home.
(para) Henry Thompson, was one of the best known practical miners in the state. In and about the workings all his life, he was an authority and his advice and judgment were always taken. For many years he was fire boss at Black Diamond and [for] several years he took a position of trust at Hazelkirk. A short time ago he went to Marianna and has been there since. While a resident of this city he was elected to select Councils from the First ward and served his constituents faithfully and well. In his death the company losses (sic) a valuable man, his family a devoted fasther and husband and his friends a friend whose place cannot be filled. He was a member of the I. O. O. F. (end) 



Now Thought that There Were 150 Lives Destroyed In Mine Explosion At Marianna -- Rescuers Have Found 140 Bodies All of Which Have Not As Yet Been Brought To The Surface -- Building Cage In Shaft --- Timbers Being Taken On and Work Will Be Prosecuted With All Vigor -- (para) The deathj list at the Marianna mines from the result of the explosion on Saturday is now placed at 150. Of this number there have been 140 found, but not all the bodies [have been] brought to the surface. The last ones found are mostly recognizable, although they are burned about the head and shoulders considerable (sic) It is possible that the list of fatalities may exceed even the number which was given out at two o'clock this afternoon, but whether or not all of these will be found or not is a question.
(para) Not all have been brought to the surface of those found on account of the work that is being rushed of the putting in of a cage in the main shaft. When this is installed it will greatly aid the further work of rescue.
(para) Last night at 12 o'clock the works were shut down and no more bodies were taken out. Some were brought to the surface during the cource (sic) of the day however. It was given as the opinion of President John H. Jones, under whom the work is being conducted that all those who were killed could be found and brought out today, but this is doubtful. 
(para) Funerals are being held today at Marianna for a number of the victims and the bodies will be interred in various places.
(para) One of the bodies found last night was that of Clasrence Williams the popular young Monongahela man. It was not recognizable by the features, which were burned, but he was identified by the blue prints on his body and his shoes. The body will be buried from the late home in Monongahela.
(para) When the body of James Henderson , a man well known in Charleroi, and a member of the Charleroi B. P. O. Elks was brought out he had his arms around two others whom it was evident he was trying to save.
(para) The inquest into the cause of the terrible disaster which snuffed out the lives of the 140 men now removed from the bowels of the earth will be held at Monongahela on Thursday, December 10, at 1 o'clock p.m. Coroner Sipe stated last evening that every detail would be gone over and nothing would be left undone to locate if possible the cause of the explosion.
(para) The condition of the bodies lately removed from the mines indicates that the force of the explosion was felt more in the entry between the two shafts than at any other part of the mine. Most of the dead brought to the surface last evening were taken from the summit of the mine located west of the two openings. Not a single man was brought from the depths who was not badly burned. (end)





The Charleroi Mail, Charleroi, Washington Co., Pennsylvania, Tuesday Dec. 1, 1908, Vol. 9 No. 94 page 1:

Mine Horrors - The exchanges now are full of accounts of the Marianna horror, and the editorial writers all over the country are treating on its various phases. All are extending their sympathy to the survivors, who are the real sufferers. The concensus of opinion among the majority of the writers however regarding the explosion [is] it could have been prevented, as well as the others in disasters, ity (sic) in the past year. It was just one year ago today [i.e. Dec. 1, 1907] that the Naomi disaster occurred in which there were 34 [who] lost their lives. Six days later on the 7th of December (sic) came the terrible affair at the Monongha mines in West Virginia, in which there were 350 killed. On December 19, twelve days after the catastrophe in West Virginia followed the disaster on Jacobs Creek, when the Darr mines was the scene of a similar affair. In it there were 200 miners [who] lost their lives. Then this year on November 28, the Marianna horror, with a death loss of 150. This makes a total in one year in the bituminous field of 734. In the three counties combined of Fayette, Westmoreland and Washington, there have been 384 lives sacrificed in the mines. The thought is a terrible one; that there are so many homes left desolate and so many left without a means of support. There should be some way to prevent these disasters. Explanations are numerous as to the cause, but none have seemingly hit upon the proper theory as yet. It is a noticeable fact that the majority of the terrible mining accidents occur in the winter. A brief resume of the calamities will prove this. It is up to the experts to discover some reason for the horrors and go to work to prevent them. Of course they are at work now, but it seems not on the proper theory. (sic) 





The Charleroi Mail, Charleroi, Washington Co., Pennsylvania, Wednesday December 2, 1908, Vol.  9 No. 95 page 1:

[NOTE: it happened "last Saturday"]
No Bodies Have Been Taken From Mine Today -- List of Those Found Is Between 141 and 145 -- Officials Will Not Talk -- Mine Foreman Joseph Kennedy Begged Thompson to Remain On Surface -- 
(para) The number of bodies that up to two o'clock this afternoon that have been found in the ill fated Marianna mine, was between 141 and 145 it being impossible to learn the correct number, although it is thought that the latter is right. These have not all been brought to the surface however. None of the bodies that have been found since yesterday noon, have been returned to the top of the workings. This is because of the work that is going on toward the erection of a cage and temporary tipple.
(para) The ones that have been identified have all been taken away, and a goodly number buried. Yesterday and today funerals over the bodies of the victims are being held, in several places. Identification of some has not been made as yet. Last night there were seven bodies taken to Monongahela and this morning there were six more brought in. 
(para) It may be some time before an official list of the dead is obtainable, although the coroner has kept record as far as possible on all identifications. This refers to the indentification of bodies not claimed by relatives. For these later the burial permit is made out and by this means those whose bodies are removed are authoritatively placed among the victims.
(para) It is stated that there was trouble expected at the Marianna mines on Saturday that some of the officials were aware that there would be an explosion sooner or later, but had no idea of the intensity to which it would attain. This statement comes from good authority, and is regarded as liable.
(para) It is said that on Friday night Joseph Kennedy, a mine foreman who was a good friend of Henry Thompson the mine foreman, who was killed, visited at the latter's home. They conversed on various matters, and finally touched on the subject of the Marianna mines. It is stated that a son-in-law of Thompson's was sitting near and he heard the conversation of the two men. It seems that according to the report that they were aware of the gas running through the Pittsburg-Buffalo vein, and thought that thy had about reached it. Kennedy it is said begged of Thompson not to enter the mines on the following day, and said, "You know what we are expecting." In reply to this Thompson said "Oh, it will not occur Saturday, and surely will not earlier than Sunday." Kennedy persisted, but as we already know Thompson went into the mine despite the warning, and was killed in the explosion.
(para) According to points that it is said were brought out in their conversation both knew and expected trouble sooner or later, from the gas, and thought that a pocket would be struck in a few days. Why they did not make this generally known, is a question, unless it would be thought that they were interfering in the business of the inspector. No doubt the matter will be investigated to learn of truth just what was known among the men, and this will be brought out at the inquest to be held by Coroner Sipe, in a few days. (end)


Superintendent Gives Opinion As To Cause - A. N. Jenkins of West Virginia Mine Advance Reason For Disaster -- Gas Well Was To (sic) Near -- (para) The opinion of A. N. Jenkins, superintendent of the O'Gara Coal company of West Virginia, and an experienced and practical miner, who has spent most of his life in the coal fields of the Monongahela, concerning the explosion at Marianna on Saturday last is that it was caused by operations being carried on too close to the gas well near the mine and a gas pocket being struck, this being ignited by one of the men's open lamp. Mr. Jenkins has not yet ben to the mine but has had reports from the place, and the above is the only reason in his opinion that could have caused the disaster. He will visit the scenes of the workings this afternoon or tomorrow. At present he is visiting relatives here.
(para) The atmosphere at this time of the year has something to do with the exoplosions, said Mr. Jenkins. It is a weight on the gaseous matter and keeps it in the strata. At the Marianna mines such was the case, and the presence of the gas well near of the Manufacture's company forces one to the conclusion with the other facts in mind that the explosion was caused by a sudden striking of a gas pocket which came from the well.
(para) As proof of his theory Mr. Jenkins points out the fact that Mr. Louttit had previously investigated the conditions in the mine thoroughly, and was satisfied as to the safety of it. He had hardly got to the surface when the explosion occurred. This is evidence to Mr. Jenkins that the affair was caused primarily by the gas well. He is capable of judging having been for years engaged as inspector of mines. He was formerly employed with the Charleroi Coal works. (end)





The Charleroi Mail, Charleroi, Washington Co., Pennsylvania, Thursday December 3, 1908, Vol. 9 No 96 Page 1:

Loutitt Is Ready For The Inquest -- Wants The Most Severe Grilling Ever Given A Man On The Stand -- Miners Find No Fault -- Coroner Sipe Delats -- Hearing Of Case Will Be Postponed Until a Later Date---
(para) Mine Inspector Henry Loutitt of this district who came out of the Marianna mines just a few moments before the explosion on Saturday morning is anxious to appear on the stand when the coroner's inquest is held to inquire into the disaster. He wants a severe grilling, and if he is able to throw any light upon the cause of the disaster he is only too willing to do so. Not only that but Mr. Loutitt wants every man who has any knowledge of the mine before the explosion or at the time to be called as a witness.
(para) The mine inspector was interviewed at Monongahela this morning in regard to the terrible affair at Marianna. He refused to say anything as to the results of his investigation or give his idea as to the cause of the explosion, but authorized the following. "I am ready for the coroner's inquest at any time now. I desire to be put on the stand and be given the most severe grilling that any man ever had. It is my desire that all who have any knowledge of the mine be called to testify."
(para) "To think, said Mr. Louttit," that a few minutes before the explosion I was in the mine laughing and joking with the men, and had only just come out, when it occurred, and then to be called a murderer. You may be sure that I, who fully realize the conditions, must feel much worse about it than anyone excepting possibly some of the survivors." (note quote marks typed where they appeared)
(para) The miners are generally in favor of Louttit, and they have nothing to say against him. In justice to him it is nothing but right to state that the investigations which have been made thus far entitle him to no blame whatever. He would not if he had known that the explosion was to occur have come out oif the workings without some attempt to save the miners.
(para) Today investigations are being carried on under the direct supervision of State Mine Inspector Roderick. It is thought that there will be some fruitful results made from the examinations which will be made by the body of mining men with him.
(para) Yesterday and this morning there were brought to this place and placed in the hands of the undertaking firm of Correll and Crowley, four bodies in all, of victims. They were Mike Boneski, Charles Fair, Nick Latsion and George (Be_o.= Beno?). The latter was buried yesterday in the Charleroi cemetery. He was a Russian. The bodies of the others, who are Greeks are at present at the Greek church and the funeral will take place later.
(para) Coroner W. H. Sipe has announced a postponement of the date of the inquest into the cause of the explosion in the Rachel shaft of the Pittsburg-Buffalo company. This was decided upon by Coroner Sipe so that his investigation would follow the official examination of the workings by the state mine inspector.
(para) Some of these gentlemen arrived today and began the work of exploration. How long they may take before being ready to make a report is not known, but it is believed they will put in several days in the mines before completing their labors.
(para) When they have finished Coroner Sipe will again announce a date for the inquest, which was originally fixed for December 10. It will be held either in Washington or Monongahela, probably at the county seat as the most central point. (end)

Answer By Lewis Man To Article of "Old Mine" -- Editor Mail: - In your issue of Nov. 21 you publish an article from the pen of one who signs himself "Old Miner," which ought not to pass by unheeded, not because of any intrinsic value, or any merit that it may possess, but it is one of those nightmare dreams, those tweedle-dee-dee, and tweedel-dee-dee-dum (sic) utterances, which have been so often used in the past, by men, with sluggish livers against an organization and our officials. Knowing as I do from past observation, as an "old miner," myself the terrible reaping from just this kind of seed, is the reason I try in my humble way to resent such flimsy pretences. It appears to me as if the writer just came out of "the silence." He must have been in a very deep mood of thought with himself, in fact so clear was his vision, to get rid, of it that he chants it off on another personage. I say chant, or you may call it a dirge for he begins on a "Minor" and like the frog in the pool never varies until he has sounded the very last note of what I would consider his "Astral Self." To be brief "--President Lewis' policies are not commendable. District No. 6 recognizes his weakness and inability, non-compliance of agreement in Ohio needs explanation. Organizers are working in the interest of Lewis. Not forgetting to tell the Miners what a brainy gentleman their employer is," etc. etc. Now look at the above picture, simmer it down and what does it all amount to? First, the policies of any executive head are never above criticism, but if we allow ourselves to judge of local happenings, and shut our eyes to the general welfare, then we render indeed a very unjust judgment. We still have conf in the strength and abiulity of our highly esteemed President, that he still retains that manly vigor of mind, that commanding force of intellect which always has enabled him to fight gallantly for the greatest good to the greatest number.
If the situation in Eastern Ohio needs explanation surely Lewis, or one or all, of the Ohio officials could give a satisfying reason, and I am inclined to think that they also will still maintain their old time prestage. As for the organizers working for him (Lewis) is a charge that I am inclined to think it is nothing but prejudice, and what makes me think it, is plain logic, because the next sentence is "They never forget to tell the Miners what a brainy employer they have got." I seem to hunt "Old Miner" to praise true worth. There are lots of men built that way, too many, and while the organizers are right in having confidence, and trying to instill the same in the rank and file, it seems strange that "Old Miner" would take this as a reason to pen such words--" "Working for him". Instead of working and endeavoring to instill the seeds of dissention in the ranks; we ought to all be doing the same. Cheer the hearts of our sorely taxed and burdened leaders, they need the pool ne it, how seldom a word of praise insure abundance. I cannot help but quote from President T. L. Lewis speech at Springfield, Ill.
(para) "A present dispatch from Springfield, Ill., reads as follows:
(para) President T. L. Lewis of the International Mine Workers addressed an assemblage of miners at the State arsenal last night and discussed various questions that confront the workers and organized labor. A large number were present and showed interest enough in the remarks of the international president by remaining throughout the meeting despite the fact that the big State building was without heat.
(para) Lewis stated that one of the problems which confronts organized labor is to secure shorter hours or less work days that the men who work may have more time for the real benefits of life. He believed that a five-day working week was one of the possible achievements of the future. Speaking of the friends and enemies of organized labor, the international president declared that the greatest enemies of the labor movement were not the employers of capitalists, as many believed but men in the ranks of the workers who assassinated the character of those who worked with them. 
(para) These character assassins of the men in the ranks of labor had wrought untold damge to the cause and were the greatest enemies the union movement had to contend with today. The speaker deplored the use of female labor and asserted a belief that a day would come when the women of the land could devote their time to the

The Charleroi Mail, Charleroi, Washington Co., Pennsylvania, December 3, 1908,  page 2:

Concerning Communication - An article of the "Old Miner" in today's issue has some good points, but we must disagree with him in some of his statements. Of course he is a Lewis man, as his communication shows, and a red hot one at that. He considers that the organizers were sent into this district to organize, not to electioneer for Lewis. Such may be the case, but to be frank it does not look like it. Nevertheless, the writer of a right to his opinion, and doubtless many will think as he does. (end)


Electric Sparks (paragraphs about different subjects, omitted...)
(para) Thye latest developments at Marianna go to show that what we need is not so much additional knowledge concerning mine explosions as consientious and rigid application of what we do know. (end)
(para) The curiosity-seekers who have been thronging to Marianna to see the wreck of the mine must have spent some money to get there. Wouldnt' (sic) it have been better to donate the money to the relief of the survivors. 
(rest not typed)

The Charleroi Mail, Charleroi, Washington Co., Pennsylvania, Tuesday December  8, 1908, Vol. 9 No 100, p. _:

Thought That Some of The Bodies May Have Been Spitited Away --- (para) While no additional bodies were taken to the morgue at Marianna yesterday, the general belief prevails here that the remains of at least 15 to 18 victims are still in the workings.
(para) It is rumored, however, that five bodies were brought out of the mine before daylight yesterday morning, though no trace of the men can be found around the workings. 
(para) An air of mystery seems to prevade the region round about the ill-fated Rachel and Agnes shafts. No longer is iformation volunteered as to the conditions in the mine on the part of the workmen in charge. Coroner W. H. Sipe is no longer communicative and it is really difficult to learn anything about what is being done.
(para) Some days ago officials of the company gave out the death list as 138. It has gradually grown since that time until now it is practically certain that the list will overreach 150 and perhaps greatly exceed that number.
(para) Undertaker Barr, who has been on the scene since the day of the explosion stated today that he had not the least doubt that there were 15 to 18 bodies still in the shaft.
(para) Since the body of James Roule was taken out on Saturday and permitted to be removed before it was viewed by the coroner's jury the suspicion has arisen that possibly other bodies have thus quiety [been] taken away. (end)


The Charleroi Mail, Charleroi, Washington Co., Pennsylvania, December 9, 1908, Vol. 9 No 101 page 1:

Brings Out Bodies of Two More -- Coroner Says That There are Still Five More Bodies In The Marianna Mine -- Committe On Relief -- Many of Foreign Widows Will Be Sent Back To Native Land -- (para) Two more bodies have been brought from the mines at Marianna, where the explosion occurred, bith so badly mutilated that identification is impossible. Coroner Sipe is authority for the statement that there are yet five bodies near the bottom of Rachel shaft. It is believed that there are still other bodies in the workings, but the number at this time can only be conjectured.
(para) Coroner Sipe stated last evening that he had been misrepresented: that there was not the least disposition on his part to misrepresent the situation at Marianna and he had not at any time attempted to conceal anything in connection with the recent catastrophe. 
(para) The coroner thinks that in all there were but 151 lives lost in the mine. The five which Mr. Sipe declares are still in the mine will be brought out later in the day or tomorrow morning.
(para) The lamp boy in a conversation said that one the day of the explosion there had been 175 safety lamps secured from him. If the death list is but what it is claimed to be, not over 155, many of these lamps which were secured from the boy, were not taken into the mines.
(para) A relief committee has been formed at Marianna, consisting of Rev. J. E. Lewis, Dr. McCall, Stephen Ulery, and Dr. Floyd Cob. They will have charge of the securing of funds. It is likely that several of the foreign women whose husbands lost their lives will be sent to their native lands. (end)


Company Gives $5,000 To The Marianna Fund -- Measures for the relief of the Marianna mine sufferers met with a big lift yesterday when the officials of the Pittsburg-Buffalo company subscribed $5,000 to the fund. Steps were also taken to simplify the distribution of the fund of $100,000 which it is intended (sic to raise, and a general committee will be appointed for the purpose.
(para) The action of the Pittsburg-Buffalo company in subscribing $5,000 to the fund does not necessarily mean that its aid toward the sufferers will cease there. The company will do its full measure in furnishing necessary relief has been given all those who need it, and there is an abundance of supples on hand. Their distribution is being superintended by the officers of the company. (sic) 


On Friday evening of this week the Union Sunday school of Eldora will hold an oyster supper, the proceeds to go for the benefit of the survivors of the Marianna disaster. The Union Sunday school raised #30 for the survivors of the Naomi mine and want to raise at least $50 for the Marianna people. (end)


West Zollarsville - abstract - wants speakesies shut down, not good for miners etc.

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