Misc. Lanarkshire Accidents 1915-1925

This section contains newspaper reports on selected accidents in miscellaneous areas of Lanarkshire between 1915 and 1925 inclusive. Please check the indexes in the Accidents Section for reports by the Inspector of Mines and accidents in other areas.

14 January 1915

Fatal Accident at a Cambuslang Colliery - Yesterday afternoon a fatal accident occurred in Gateside Colliery Cambuslang, owned by the Flemington Coal Company. Peter M'Court, miner, 77 Easterhill Street, Tollcross, was working with an electrically driven coal-cutting machine when he was accidentally caught in the machinery and sustained injuries from which he died shortly after admission to Glasgow Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 15 January 1915]

Gateside Miner Killed – A shocking accident which terminated fatally occurred on Thursday afternoon in the upper coal seam of No 1 Pit, Gateside Colliery, Cambuslang, belonging to the Flemington Coal Company, Ltd. Peter M'Court (48), miner, who resided at 77 Windsor Place, Tollcross, was employed at a coal cutting machine when he was caught by the cutting wheel and drawn into the revolving machinery. When extricated he was found to have sustained terrible injuries, one leg being fractured and the other practically severed from the body. Dr Allison, who was summoned, ordered the man's immediate removal to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, and M'Court had just been placed in a bed in that institution when he expired. He leaves a widow. [Hamilton Herald 16 January 1915]

16 January 1915

Fatal Accident - William M’Guire, a boy of 16 years who resided with his parents at Airbles St., met with a fatal accident at Broomside Colliery on Friday last. M’Guire was working about some waggons when he was caught between the buffers and severely crushed. He was removed to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, but succumbed to his injuries early on Saturday. [Motherwell Times 22 January 1915]

23 January 1915

Lanark – Peculiar Mining Accident – A peculiar mining accident was reported to the police at Lanark on Saturday as a result of which Joseph Davidson, miner, residing at Kirkmuirhill, Lesmahagow, received serious injuries. Late on Friday night Davidson was employed on a double shifted place of the splint coal seam in Bellfield Colliery, Coalburn, and was working on the back shift. At a previous shift the miner working in the same place had laid an explosive charge in the coal, this charge missing fire. It is stated that Davidson was informed of this, and fired a shot near to the original charge for the purpose of exploding it. This seems to have failed and while Davidson was hewing at the coal he seems to have struck and set off the unexploded charge, with the result that he was severely injured about the head and breast. He was removed to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow. [Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser 30 January 1915]

25 January 1915

Cambuslang – Colliery Accident – A serious accident occurred on Tuesday at the Humph Coal seam of Gilbertfield Colliery, owned by Messrs John Watson Limited at Cambuslang. A miner named John Jackson, 50 years of age, residing at 1 Church Street, Cambuslang, was engaged working with an electric coal cutting machine when he was caught in the mechanism. The machine was stopped promptly but Jackson was seriously injured sustaining fractures of both thighs. He was taken to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary in the Cambuslang ambulance waggon. [Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser 23 January 1915]

Accident Proves Fatal – When John Jackson, a miner, who resided at 1 Church Street, was injured in Gilbertfield Colliery last week, little hope of his recovery was entertained. The worst fears of his wife and family were realised on Monday evening when intimation was received that he had died in the Glasgow Royal Infirmary. As reported here last week, Jackson was at work in the humph coal seam of the colliery when he was caught in the revolving machinery of an electric coal cutter and had both legs fractured. He is survived by a widow and 5 children. [Hamilton Herald 30 January 1915]

8 March 1915

Carluke – Colliery Accident – On Monday forenoon while Duncan MacKenzie miner, residing at 62 Stewart Street, was at work at the face in the Kiltongue seam of Hyndshaw coalpit, Castlehill Collieries, a piece of fireclay came away from the roof, striking him on the leg and causing a simple fracture of the right thigh. He was conveyed home and attended to by Dr Barr. [Hamilton Advertiser 13 March 1915]

28 March 1915

Young Miner Killed – James Murgatroyd, 16, miner, who resided at Lightburn Road, Cambuslang, died in the Glasgow Royal Infirmary on Sunday as the result of injuries sustained in an accident at Messrs Dunlop & Co's Newton Colliery on Friday. The lad was employed underground when he was struck on the stomach by a bogey. [Hamilton Herald 3 April 1915]

11 April 1915

Cambuslang – Miner Killed – On Saturday morning an accident took place in Bardykes Colliery, Cambuslang, which resulted in the death of one miner being killed and slight injuries to another. Robert Alexander, 76 Lightburn Road Cambuslang, and Hugh Scott, Spittal Rows, both oncostmen, were descending the shaft in the lower deck of a double cage when the cage crashed to the pit bottom. So great was the impact that it spread the legs of the cage and snapped the bolts which held the top and bottom decks in position. The result was that the top deck came down on the one side and pinned Alexander to the lower deck. The other side, however, held, and Hugh Scott was pitched out, and escaped with shock and slight injuries to the ankle. Mr Samuel Agnew, manager of the colliery, which is owned by the Summerlee Iron and Coal Company (Limited) heard the crash and immediately hurried to the scene. He was able after some difficulty to clear away the debris and take out Alexander, but he was quite dead. The deceased was 18 years of age, and resided with his mother, a widow, at 76 Lightburn Road, Cambuslang. His father was killed in the same colliery about 6 years ago. [Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser 17 April 1915]

19 May 1915

Carluke - Accident – On Wednesday afternoon an accident befell Mr Hugh Martin, colliery engineer, while engaged at work on the erection of a new coal washing plant at Messrs Barr & Thornton's Fauldhouse Colliery. Mr Martin fell from a height of nearly 30 feet, his head coming in contact with a waggon and sustaining severe injuries. He was removed to his home in Carluke in an unconscious condition. Mr Martin regained consciousness on Thursday evening and is progressing as favourably as can be expected. [Hamilton Advertiser 22 May 1915]

4 August 1915

John Jenkinson, miner, Baillie's Square, Merry Street, Motherwell, was buried beneath a fall from the roof in the Wishaw Coal Company's Coursington Colliery, and when extricated a few hours later life was extinct. [Sunday Post 8 August 1915]

27 September 1915

Law Miner Killed - The death occurred yesterday morning at Wilson Rows, Law, near Carluke, of Alexander Porter (32), miner, who was injured last Thursday by a fall from the roof in the Drumgray seam of Shawfield colliery, Law. [Scotsman 28 September 1915]

4 December 1915

Fatal Pit Accident at Carluke - A fatal pit accident occurred at Law Junction near Carluke on Saturday forenoon. Thomas Robertson, residing at Tinto Terrace, Carluke, was at work in Brownlee colliery when a fall came away from the side of the road, and he was so seriously injured that he died shortly afterwards. [Scotsman 6 December 1915]

19 January 1916

Fatal Colliery Accident In Lanarkshire - James Hamilton (41), foreman joiner, residing at Inglemuir, Coalburn, has died as the result of injuries received in an accident at Auchlochan Colliery. In an endeavour to stop some waggons which had been put in motion he picked up a piece of timber about six feet long in order to sprag one of the wheels. The timber rebounded striking Hamilton violently and throwing him beneath, the wheels of the waggons, which passed over him. [Scotsman 24 January 1916]

14 February 1916

Fatal Colliery Accident - On Monday morning a young man named James Selfridge (21), a miner, who resided at 28 Queen Street, met with a fatal accident in Watson’s No. 2 Pit. He was working at a coal cutter when he became entangled in the machinery. One of his legs was torn off and the other was badly smashed. He was removed to the Royal Infirmary, where he succumbed about midnight. [Hamilton Advertiser 19 February 1916]

22 February 1916

Fatal Colliery Accident at Cambuslang - When the night shift were engaged at work in Gateside colliery, Cambuslang, yesterday morning, a fall from the roof occurred in the humph coal section. Two miners were caught in the debris. John Howieson, 36 years of age , who resided at 25 Bank Street, Cambuslang, was severely crushed, and died in half an hour. He leaves a widow and four children. John Henderson (35), married, and residing at 1 Silverbanks Street, Cambuslang, was seriously injured. [Scotsman 23 February 1916]

31 March 1916

Polish Miner Killed - On Friday evening a Polish miner, named Matteus Orlancavitch (29), who resided at Russell Place, Park Street, Motherwell , was killed in Braidhurst Pit by a fall of coal from the face at which he was working. His widow resides in Poland. [Scotsman 3 April 1916]

19 April 1916

Fatal Colliery Accident in Lanarkshire - While Robert M'Mahon (30), a married miner, residing at Fenel Rows, Tillietudlem, near Crossford, .was at work in Bellfield colliery, Coalburn, on Wednesday, a fall of stone came away from the roof, killing him instantaneously. It appears that he had fired a shot and had gone in to see its effects when the fall took place. [Scotsman 21 April 1916]

8 June 1916

Miner Killed at Chryston - While at work in Auchengeich Colliery, Chryston, John Kelly, 19 years of age, was instantly killed. Kelly who had only been a short time employed in the pit, was engaged as a drawer; and while bringing a hutch out of one of the roads he was struck on the head by another rake of hutches, the head being jammed against the workings. [Scotsman 12 June 1916]

21 June 1916

Miner Killed - A sad fatality occurred in Castlehill Colliery on Wednesday afternoon. William Logie, bogieman, residing at Castlehill, was engaged in bringing the hutches from the coal lye to the pit bottom, when in some way a bogie and three hutches were derailed. Logie was found lying under a loaded hutch of coal. Dr. Barr examined the body and pronounced life extinct. The injuries consisted of a fracture of the base the skull and broken spine. Logie leaves a wife and child. [Hamilton Advertiser - Saturday 24 June 1916]

11 July 1916

Broomhouse – Accident To An Engineboy – An engineboy named Thomas Ferrell, 15, residing at 24 Calton Street, Tollcross, met with an accident on Tuesday while at work at Daldowie Colliery, Broomhouse, belonging to the Glasgow Coal Company. It appears that he had been working at the dross conveyor and made to tighten one of the nuts that was slack. One of the sleeves of his shirt was caught by the teeth of the wheels and his right arm was drawn in between two pinion wheels. His arm was severely lacerated and fractured and after being attended by Dr Crawford, Uddingston, he was removed to Glasgow Royal Infirmary in the Baillieston ambulance waggon. [Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser 15 July 1916]

7 August 1916

PIT FATALITY. - About seven o’clock on Monday morning Steven Lyons, a young Irishman, employed as a miner, was killed in Messrs John Watson’s No. 4 Pit. He was engaged at a cutting machine when a heavy stone fell upon him from the roof, causing instant death. His landlord being on holiday, some difficulty was experienced in accommodating the body, but it was ultimately taken to a neighbour’s house in Hope Street. [Motherwell Times 11 August 1916]

1 September 1916

Fullarton - Pit Accident - A miner named Wm Welsh, 25, residing at 97B Causewayside Street, Fullarton, met with an accident about 1.45pm on Friday while working in the pyotshaw and main coal seams of No 1 Kenmuirhill Colliery, Carmyle, owned by the Glasgow Coal Company, Ltd. A stone weighing 10 to 15 cwts fell from a lype in the roof of his working place, and, striking him, knocked him down. He sustained a simple fracture of the left femur bone. Dr Thomas attended to his injury and had him removed to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, in the Baillieston ambulance waggon. [Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser 2 September 1916]

10 October 1916

Cambuslang Miner Killed – In Gateside Colliery, Cambuslang yesterday a miner named Henry Durnin, 34 years of age, was killed instantaneously by a fall of stone from the roof. He leaves a widow. [Scotsman 11 October 1916]

3 November 1916

Tollcross – Miner Killed – About midnight on Friday, Andrew Kyle, 46, a coal machineman, who resided at 263 Nuneaton Street, Glasgow, was fatally injured in Foxley Colliery, Tollcross. Kyle having made ready to start work signalled to his fellow worker to switch on the power. When this was done the machine instead of going forward, turned round, and Kyle was caught in the machinery. He was terribly mutilated about the body and died shortly after being taken to the pithead. [Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser 11 November 1916]

31 December 1916

CAMBUSLANG - Fatal Accident at Gilbertfield Colliery - Early on Monday morning a fall from the roof took place in Gilbertfield Colliery, when a miner named Peter Galaghley, 5 Eastfield Cottages, Cambuslang, was killed. He leaves widow and a family of three. [Hamilton Advertiser 6 January 1917]

8 January 1917

Miner Killed at Giffnock Colliery - A miner named Joseph Richards, who resided in Bengal Street Pollokshaws, was killed yesterday in Giffnock Colliery, near Pollokshaws. He was working at the face when a part of the roof fell upon him and broke his neck [Scotsman 9 January 1917]

13 January 1917

Douglas - Pit Fatality- A sad colliery accident occurred at Glespin Colliery on Saturday, as the result of which John Lowe, 37, miner, married and residing at Short Row, Glespin, lost his life. It appears that Lowe, along with other two miners was employed in the Blackband seam. Before commencing work they tested the roof, but as an extra precuation decided to put up a prop. One of the miners went to get a prop, while Lowe and the other miner prepared for its erection. While thus engaged a large stone came away from the roof, and falling upon Lowe killed him instantly. The other miner escaped uninjured. Lowe leaves a widow and young family. [Hamilton Advertiser 20 January 1917]

5 February 1917

Colliery Cage Without Gates – Manager and Undermanager Fined - A prosecution brought under the Coal Mines Act, 1911 was heard in Hamilton Sheriff Court on Tuesday. George Morrison, colliery manager, Rossvale, Walter Street, Wishaw, was charged with having during the period between 1st September 1916, and 5th February. 1917, he being the manager of No. 2 Pit, Glenclelland Colliery, in the parish of Dalziel, and occupied by Horn Glasgow, Ltd., a mine to which the Coal Mines Act of 1911 applies, did, in respect to the cage in use at said pit for the lowering and raising of persons, fail to have the cage provided with suitable gates or other rigid fence. The under-manager, George Cook, residing at Glenclelland House, Wishaw, was charged with having during the same period at the same pit failed to enforce to the best of his power the provisions of Section 40 (7) of the Coal Mines Act, 1911, in so far that, he failed to see that the cage in use for the lowering and raising of persons was provided with suitable gates or other rigid fence. Both respondents pleaded guilty, and it was explained that the prosecutions arose out of fatal accident which had occurred at the pit on 5th February, when a father and son were being raise to the surface, and the cage, coming to a bad joint in the slides, gave a jerk, with the result that the father was thrown out of the cage and killed. On behalf of the respondents, it was explained that the miners had a prejudice against being raised and lowered by No. 1 shaft, where the cage was provided with gates, and that in consequence, the practice continued of the men being raised and lowered by No. 2 shaft, where gates were not in use for the cage. The manager was fined £10, with the alternative of twenty days’ imprisonment, and the penalty in the case of the under-manager was £5, or ten days’ imprisonment. [Hamilton Advertiser19 May 1917]

7 May 1917

Colliery Accident at Douglas - An accident occurred about 4.30 yesterday morning in the No. 1 mine of Douglas Castle colliery at Douglas West Station, as the result of which one man was killed and another seriously injured. Three brothers - James Kelly, aged 39, Thomas Kelly (31), and Robert Kelly a younger brother, all unmarried and residing, with their mother - were working together on the nightshift in the section of the colliery. They were engaged taking put a "stoop" when they came upon a "lipe." As a result a stone weighing about four tons came away from the roof and fell upon the two first mentioned, who were working at the face, James Kelly was killed almost instantaneously. Thomas Kelly received serious internal injuries, and was removed to Douglas Hospital. The other brother escaped uninjured [Scotsman 8 May 1917]

[NB Thomas Kelly died 18 May 1917 at the Cottage Hospital, Douglas]

7 June 1917

Law – Fatal Accident – A sad accident occurred on Thursday at Waterlands Colliery, Law, resulting in the death of George Lammie, miner, residing at 78 Kirkton Street, Carluke. Lammie who only started work at the colliery two days previously, was engaged repairing the “road” when a large stone came away from the roof, and fell on him. Death was instantaneous. He leaves a widow and one son, a lad of 15 years, who was at work with him on the colliery. [Hamilton Advertiser 9 June 1917]

8 June 1917

MINER KILLED AT CARMYLE. - Airdrie, Saturday. - Thomas Orr M'Culloch (45), a miner, residing at 22 Earl Street, Scotstoun, has been fatally injured in No. 1 Kenmuirhill Colliery, Carmyle, belonging to the Glasgow Coal Company, Limited. He had been engaged at his working place howking out the bottom coal below a seam of fireclay, when sixteen feet of the clay came away on top of him, breaking his neck and causing instantaneous death. [Sunday Post 10 June 1917]

19 June 1917

MOTHERWELL - Colliery Fatality - On Tuesday afternoon, Andrew Reid, 16 years of age, was instantaneously killed while at work on a surface hoist at Logan’s Colliery. Deceased resided in Caledonian Street. [Hamilton Advertiser 23 June 1917]

9 July 1917

Motherwell - Colliery Fatality – Andrew Wilson , 22 years of age, son of John Wilson, 113 Windmillhill Street, met with his death on Monday afternoon in Wishaw Coal Coy's (“Doctor's”) Pit at Motherwell. Deceased had got in front of a rake of hutches and was run down, receiving terrible injuries from which he died almost instantaneously. Deceased had made all his arrangements to go off his holidays yesterday. [Hamilton Advertiser 14 July 1917]

6 August 1917

Shettleston – Fatal Colliery Accident – The death occurred on Monday by accident of JamesLandels Love, miner, 382 Main Street, Shettleston. He had been working in the virtuewell seam of No 1 Pit, Clyde Colliery, Fullarton, Old Monkland, James Dunlop and Co., when a fall took place from the roof owing to a prop becoming loose, and he was buried in the debris. He died about a hour later. He leaves a widow and a family. [Hamilton Advertiser 11 August 1917]

22 October 1917

Cambuslang – Explosion at Gateside Colliery – An explosion of firedamp took place on Monday afternoon in Gateside Colliery No 2, Cambuslang, which is owned by the Flemington Coal Company Ltd. Three men were at work in the virgin coal section when the explosion took place, causing a stoppage of work in the vicinity. Efforts were made to rescue the men with all speed. Dr Allison, Cambuslang attended. John Clark, who resided at Burnside Buildings Eastfield, Cambuslang, was found to be dead. He leaves a widow and two of a family. John McQuilliam, Causeyside Street, Tollcross, with a leg and arm fractured and suffering from gas poisoning, was removed to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary in the Cambuslang ambulance waggon. Robert Kyle, 8 Bank Street, Cambuslang, injured on the head and body was removed home. [Hamilton Advertiser 27 October 1917]

10 December 1917

2 April 1918

Daniel Mechan, West High Street, Kirkintilloch, was killed by a fall from the roof in Auchingeich colliery, Chryston. [Scotsman 3 April 1918]

2 July 1918

John Leighton (44), brushing contractor, 74 Main Street, Shettleston, was accidentally killed in Easterhill colliery, Tollcross. [Scotsman 3 July 1918]

15 November 1918

Young Miner Killed - Peter Sneddon, miner, 17 years of age, residing at 81 Townhead Street. Hamilton, was killed in Parkhead Colliery, Motherwell, on Friday last through a fall of coal from the roof of his working place. Death was instantaneous. [Hamilton Advertiser 23 November 1918]

18 November 1918

James Miller (45), miner, 33 Hamilton Road, Broomhouse, while holing coal at the face in Broomhouse colliery of the Glasgow Coal Company (Ltd.), was buried in a fall of about 25 cwts. of coal from the face. He was removed to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, where he died half an hour after admission. He leaves a widow and two daughters. [Scotsman 21 November 1918]

8 December 1918

Colliery Fireman Killed - On Sunday afternoon Robert Hamilton Burns, 38 years of age, colliery fireman, residing at 166 Muir Street, met with a fatal accident while at work in Braidhurst Colliery. Deceased had been superintending the laying of hutch rails when a stone came away from the side, knocking him down, whereby his spine was injured and ribs fractured. Dr Downes was in attendance, but the unfortunate man died shortly after removal to the surface. [Hamilton Advertiser 14 December 1918]

31 March 1919

Scottish V.C.'s Father Killed - When the miners were at work in Newton No. 1 Colliery, Cambuslang, yesterday, a fall from the roof in the virgin coal section look place. Two miners were caught, and one of them, John Dickson, Alexandria Terrace, Newton, was extricated and removed home. The other miner, Hugh M'lvor, 34-Dunlop Street, Newton, father of the late Private Hugh M'lvor, V.C., Royal Scots, was, however, buried alive. Efforts were made by the miners to rescue the entombed man, but when he was brought out life was extinct. The deceased was 67 years of age, and had worked in the mine since early manhood. He leaves a widow and grown-up family. About a month ago Mr and Mrs M'lvor were summoned to Buckingham Place, and received from the King the Victoria. Cross which had been gained by their son, the late Private Hugh M'lvor, who mas killed a fortnight after having been recommend for the honour. About a fortnight ago the parents received as a testimonial about £300, with a framed photograph of their V.C. son, at a public meeting in the Institute. After the accident the miners remained idle for the day. [Scotsman 1 Apr 1919]

21 April 1919

Patrick Dillon (33), while working a coalcutting machine in Easterhill colliery, Tollcross, came accidentally in contact with the electric current, and was instantaneously killed. [Scotsman 23 April 1919]

1 July 1919

Motherwell – Killed While At Work – Hugh Reid, 49 years of age, a married man who resided at 5 Watt's Land, Newmains, met with a fatal accident in Coursington Colliery on Tuesday. He was at work in the colliery when a “fall” occurred. Deceased received a fracture of the ribs and severe internal injuries, from which he died. [Hamilton Advertiser 5 July 1919]

15 July 1919

Cambuslang Pit Fatality – After having assisted in firing a shot in the Flemington Coal Company's Gateside Colliery, Cambuslang, Michael M'Laughlin, 51, a brusher, was on his way to partake of a meal when he was killed by the fall of a stone weighing several tons. M'Laughlin, who resided at 20 Glasgow Road, Cambuslang, was a widower and a native of Donegal. [Hamilton Advertiser 19 July 1919]

8 January 1920

Miner's Tragic Death – John M'Intosh, a colliery motorman, who resided at 47 Clyde Street, Newton, died with tragic suddenness at Hallside Colliery, about 6 o'clock on Thursday morning. He had just arrived at the pithead after completing his nights work underground when he collapsed and expired before medical aid could be summoned. Deceased who leaves a widow and family, was 62 years of age and had a long honourable association with Newton district. He was a highly respected member of Cambuslang Royal Arch” Lodge No 114, and for many years assisted in the training of Newton Colliery bandsmen. In token of sympathy and respect the miners remained idle for the day. [The Lanarkshire 10 January 1920]

27 January 1920

Lesmahagow – Colliery Accident – A serious accident occurred at Auchenbegg Colliery on Tuesday evening, whereby a young man named George Smith had his arm severely crushed. He was in charge of a motor driven pump underground, and had just finished the lubricating duties, and on reaching over the top of the motor his sleeve was drawn into a tooth and pinion wheel, and his arm severely injured before it was brought to a standstill. He was conveyed to the surface and attended to by Dr Smith, who ordered his removal to the Western Infirmary, Glasgow. The unfortunate part of the affair is that Smith had only recently undertaken the duties he was engaged on as light work following an accident he had received in the same colliery several months ago. He is a married man and resides at Milton Terrace. [Hamilton Advertiser 31 January 1920]

20 March 1920

Two Miner Killed – Fatalities At Bardykes & Newton – Two fatalities occurred in the Cambuslang mining area on Saturday. Jas. M'Kenna who resided in lodgings at 6 Bushyhill, Cambuslang was at work in the Summerlee Co's Bardykes Colliery at an early hour on Saturday morning when he was caught in a heavy fall from the roof and killed instantaneously. Deceased was a bachelor and native of Ireland. William Walker (31) repairer, who resided at 52 Dunlop Street, Newton, was fatally injured on Saturday at Messrs James Dunlop and Company's No 12 pit, Newton Colliery. While engaged repairing the shaft he was enveloped in a fall of debris which broke away from the side overhead. Knocked off the scaffolding on which he had been standing, the unfortunate man was hurled to the pit bottom, a distance of 60 feet. He was picked up in a mangled condition and conveyed to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, where he died shortly after his admission. [The Lanarkshire 27 March 1920]

5 April 1920

Lesmahagow – Fatal Accident – A sad accident occurred at Bellfield Colliery early on Monday morning whereby James Richardson, who resided at Springbank, lost his life. No person witnessed the accident but it appears that he had been run down by a train of loaded hutches which were on their way to the bottom as he was proceeding to his working place. He is survived by a widow and family. [Hamilton Advertiser 10 April 1920]

11 May 1920

Colliery Explosion at Rutherglen - Hugh Martin (24), 28 Preston Street, Bridgeton; John Mallon (34) 18 Norman Street, Bridgeton; and Andrew Kelly (26), 23 Harriet Street, Rutherglen, were severely burned by an explosion of fire damp in William Dixon's (Ltd.) No. 6 Colliery at Rutherglen yesterday. The first-named died later in the Victoria Infirmary Glasgow. [Scotsman 12 May 1920]

1 June 1920

Two Men Killed in Chryston Colliery - An explosion of fire damp occurred in Auchengeich colliery, near Chryston yesterday, whereby two men lost their lives, and a number were seriously injured. Those killed were John Marley, Freeland Place and James Mooney, Gallowhill, Kirkintilloch, both married men. The injured men are Richard Moore, John Kelly, William Gray; and George Connel, all belonging to Chryston district. [Scotsman 2 June 1920]

18 August 1920

Darngavil Colliery, John Shields - See entry on Heroism Awards page

3 September 1920

Coalburn – Fatal Accident – An accident resulting in the death of WalterBaxter, miner, Railway Terrace, Coalburn, occurred in the five foot seam of No 4 pit, Bellfield Colliery Coalburn on Friday of last week. The deceased had been working at the face along with his son, when a large stone weighing between 6 and 7 cwts fell from the roof upon his head, fractured his skull and caused instant death. The deceased's son, who was working about 12 feet away from his father, was unaware of the accident, until, looking round, he saw a large stone had fallen from the roof immediately above where his father was working. [Hamilton Advertiser 11 September 1920]

18 September 1920

Fatal Burning in a Coal Mine - By an explosion of gas, ignited by a naked light, in Daldowie colliery, two machinemen, James M'Ghee and Joseph M'Hendry, residing at Boghall Rows, Broomhouse, were severely burned. M'Ghee was removed to Glasgow Royal Infirmary, where he died shortly after admission. M'Hendry's injuries consisted of burns on the arms and hands. [Scotsman 21 September 1920]

Uddingston - Fatal Accident – John M'Ghee, miner, Boghall Rows, Broomhouse, Uddingston, died on Saturday morning in the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, as the result of injuries sustained in a gas explosion at Daldowie Colliery, Broomhouse, on Thursday evening. Deceased leaves a widow and three children. Another miner escaped with slight injuries. [Hamilton Advertiser 25 September 1920]

24 September 1920

Fatal Pit Accident At Carluke - A fatal accident occurred at Castlehill Pit, Carluke, yesterday morning, through a fall from the roof. While James Watson, an underground worker, was engaged on the duty of coupling hutches, he was buried beneath a heavy fall. Death was practically instantaneous. Deceased served in the Army till ten years ago. He leaves a widow and a family of none. [Scotsman 25 September 1920]

10 February 1921

Two Miners Killed Near Chryston – Two Kirkintilloch miners, named John Timmins , Dromore Street, and Michael MacKay, Hillhead, were killed while at work in Auchingeich Colliery, Chryston. A fall had taken place, and they were clearing it away when another fall came away, in which they were both caught. MacKay was killed instantly, and the other man lived only a few minutes. MacKay, who leaves a wife and six of a family, had been associated for several years as trainer of Kirkintilloch Harp F.C. Timmins was unmarried. [Scotsman 12 February 1921]

4 April 1921

Pit Explosion – Shettleston Oversman Killed – Holytown Manager Injured - The first serious accident in the coal strike, as far as Lanarkshire district is concerned, took place on Monday morning as the result of an explosion in the Frankland Pit, Shettleston, when an oversman named John Russell, residing Shettleston was killed, and Charles Brown Sneddon, a native of Holytown, residing at Queen Avenue, Shettleston, was seriously injured. About midnight on Sunday it appears the two men descended the mine to make an examination of the pumps and ventilating fans, the fans not having been working since the miners stopped. In the absence of enginemen, it is stated, the lowering of the cage was done by Mr Gray, the under manager, who had had some experience of engines. About an hour and a half later Mr Gray heard an explosion, and, surmising that something serious had happened, procured the assistance of an engineman, with whom he descended the mine. Search revealed the scene of the mishap to be the main “dook” or incline of the Kiltongue coal seam, where Mr Gray found Mr Russell lying dead, and Mr Sneddon seriously injured. On being brought to the surface the manager was immediately conveyed to the Glasgow Infirmary, where he lies in a critical condition. Sneddon is well known the village of Holytown, where he was reared and schooled. His parents resided for many years adjacent to the Chapelhall Cooperative premises, Holytown. It was whilst in the employ at Thankerton Pit that Mr Sneddon gained his mine manager’s certificate. Mrs Sneddon, prior to her marriage, was a school teacher under Bothwell School Board Her name was Miss Brown, and she resided at Reid’s Land, Main Street, Holytown. [Motherwell Times 8 April 1921]

9 May 1921

Miner Killed at an Outcrop. - While miners were working last evening at an outcrop at the new sidings leading into Robroyston colliery, Glasgow, trying to got coal, there was a fall of about a ton weight of stones and clay. Charles Cassells (45), a married man, residing at 105 Forge Street, Springburn was killed, and William Shields (35), 95 Forge Street, Springburn, injured [Scotsman 10 May 1921]

24 July 1921

Colliery Accident at Motherwell - Early yesterday morning an accident occurred at No. 4 Watson's colliery, Motherwell, a machineman, James Boyle, Brown Place, Motherwell being caught in the picks of a coal-cutting machine, and severely injured about the arm and leg. He was removed in a critical condition to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 26 July 1921]

Shocking Colliery Accident- Man Caught in Machine Picks. - About 12 o’clock on Sunday evening a shocking colliery accident occurred in the black band seam of Watson’s No. 4 Motherwell Colliery. It appears that a young man, named Jas. Boyle, machineman, residing at Brown Place, Hope Street, was starting work at a coal-cutting machine, adjusting the machine to take in the picks. Several of the picks had been taken in, and the machine was switched on to take in the remainder, when, through some cause or other, Boyle was caught in the picks, and received terrible injuries, an arm and leg being practically severed from his body. Some time elapsed before he could be released from amidst the machinery, and he was then removed in critical condition to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary. The unfortunate lad was unmarried, and resides with his widowed mother. [Motherwell Times 29 July 1921]

19 November 1921

Edward Cairney, the well-known Croy district quoiter, has been seriously injured while at work in the coal mines. He had prepared to fire a shot, but it failed to go off in the time anticipated. He had gone into the working place again, and was almost at the spot when the explosion occurred, and he was struck by flying debris. One of his eyes was destroyed, but there is a hope that he will have the sight in the other restored. He was also otherwise injured. [Dunfermline Journal 19 November 1921]

21 November 1921

Cambuslang Miner Killed - A large stone fell from the roof in Messrs Arch Russell & Co.'s Loanend colliery, Cambuslang yesterday and a coal cutter named James Smeaton (34) was killed outright. Smeaton resided at 4 Somerville Road Cambuslang, and was well known in the district. He leaves a widow and five of a family. [Scotsman 22 November 1921]

28 December 1921

Cambuslang Miner Killed - A miner named Robert Syme was killed yesterday in Dechmont colliery, Cambuslang, by a fall from the roof. He resided at Loanfoot, Sydesbrae, High Blantyre, and leaves a widow and two of a family. [Scotsman 29 December 1921]

10 February 1922

A fatal accident occurred at the Farme Colliery, Rutherglen, yesterday. A large stone weighing several tons fell upon Victor Kelkevic while he was at work in the mine. Death was instantaneous. Kelkevic, who was 27 years of age and resided at 487 Baltic Street, Bridgeton, was a Pole. [Glasgow Herald 11 February 1922]

17 February 1922

Coalburn – Fatal Colliery Accident – While engaged at his duties as coal cutting machineman in the dook section of Auchlochan Collieries last week, John Hunter, 26, residing at Littlegill, Auchenheath, received injuries from which he died the following day. It appears that Hunter had stopped his machine in order to put some new picks into the bar, and was engaged at this work, when, through some unexplained means, the machine started, with the result that he was caught by the bar. Hunter was conveyed to Glasgow Royal Infirmary but died the following day. [Hamilton Advertiser 25 February 1922]

1 May 1922

Motherwell – Colliery Accident – Adam Parker, 17k Parkhead Street, met with an accident while at work in Parkhead Colliery on Monday. Parker was sitting at his breakfast at the time, when a runaway hutch came along, knocking him down and inflicting injuries on his head and body. The injured man was attended by Drs Robertson and Ferguson and afterwards removed home. [Hamilton Advertiser 6 May 1922]

1 May 1922

Douglas – Fatal Colliery Accident – A sad colliery accident resulting in the death of John Gold, 57, bricklayers labourer, Blue Tower, Douglas, occurred in Douglas Castle Colliery on Monday last. It appears that Gold had been engaged as a bricklayers labourer in the nine feet coal seam of the above colliery, where a motor house was being erected, when a fall came away from the roof on top of him. Operations for the removal of the debris were at once commenced, but when extricated Gold was found to be dead. The remains were examined by Dr Sergeant. [Hamilton Advertiser 6 May 1922]

22 May 1922

Miner killed at a Cambuslang Colliery - Yesterday Michael M'Govern, 24 years of age, 60 Glasgow Road, Cambuslang, was killed, and Arch. Hastie, Graham's Buildings, Halfway, Cambuslang, was injured, when working in the splint coal section of Gateside colliery, Cambuslang, by a fall from the roof. [Scotsman 23 May 1922]

13 March 1923

Aged Engineer Killed In Glasgow - William Forrest (86), engineer, 134 Stanmore Road, Mount Florida died yesterday in the Glasgow Victoria Infirmary as a result of injuries sustained in an accident at No. 6 Govan Pit, Polmadie, earlier in the day. He was knocked down by an engine and run over. His left arm was amputated, and he was seriously injured about the head and body. [Scotsman 14 March 1923]

28 May 1923

Thomas Lochhead (41), a pit sinker, residing at Stirling Bridge, Newmains, was killed while at work yesterday at Parkhead Colliery, Motherwell. Deceased had been engaged in the work of sinking a shaft from the splint coal to the black band seam. Lochhead and another workman had just closed in the slides for the purpose of allowing the cage to travel up and down. He stepped onto a bar on which the cage rests, which gave way beneath him, precipitating him to the bottom of the shaft. [Glasgow Herald 29 May 1923]

28 May 1923

A miner named Bernard Devine, who resided at Tabernacle Street, Cambuslang, was engaged yesterday morning working a coal-cutting machine in Messrs Archibald Russell and Company’s Dechmont Colliery, Cambuslang, when he was caught in the mechanism and so terribly mutilated that he died shortly afterwards. Devine was 36 years of age and leaves a wife and family. [Glasgow Herald 29 May 1923]

28 September 1923

Miner Killed At Cambuslang - When engaged on the night shift in Gateside Colliery No. 2, Cambuslang , a shot firer named Peter Smith, 32 Church Street, Cambuslang, was killed instantaneously by a fall of stone from the roof in the main coal section. He was 26 years of age, and leaves a widow and two of a family. He was a prominent temperance advocate. [Scotsman 29 September 1923]

21 October 1923

Pit Explosion At Kilsyth – Three Men Injured – One Fatally - An explosion, resulting in injury to three men, occurred on Saturday morning, writes our Kilsyth correspondent, in No. 1 Pit, Bedlay Colliery, belonging to William Baird & Co. (Ltd.), and situated close to the Lanarkshire and Dumbartonshire border. Brushing operations were proceeding, and only a few men were in the pit at the time. Preparations had been made for firing a shot, and two brushers - William Love, a married man, residing at Creighton Street, Coatbridge, and James Forray, single, Annathill Terrace, Bedlay, along with James M'Connell, colliery fireman, residing at Annathill Terrace, Bedlay - had proceeded into a byeway about 20 fathoms from the place to await the shot going off. When the blast did occur, it was accompanied by a loud explosion , the effects of which reached the men in the byeway, burning them badly about the face, hands, and parts of the body. The explosion was so severe that Daniel Crawley and Peter Greachen, who were at work on another road over 80 yards away, had their caps blown off, and their hair singed, while their clothing, which had been left lying on the roadway, was blown some yards away. Crawley and Greachen immediately made for the spot where their comrades had been working, and found them trying to scramble out of the byeway. They assisted them to the pit bottom, and after first aid had been rendered, the three men were removed in the ambulance to the Royal Infirmary. The condition of two of the men appeared to be serious. Electric safety lamps are used in the pit, and as no trace of gas was found ,before the preparations for firing the shot were made, it is conjectured that a feeder of gas had been tapped, and the firing of the shot had caused the gas to explode. On inquiry at the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, last night, it was ascertained that Love had succumbed to his injuries. [Scotsman 22 October 1923]

NB James Forry died 22 October 1923

12 December 1923

Under Manager Falls Down Pit shaft - The under manager of Broomhouse Colliery, Mr George Cooper (35), residing at 76 Swinton Terrace, Baillieston, accidentally fell down the shaft of the colliery on Wednesday, and was instantaneously killed. He had been at work with the bottomer, sending hutches of dirt from the main coal bottom to the hill, and was attending to the gate and the bell. A couple of empty hutches came down on the cage, and were taken off by the bottomer ad pushed by him along the road. The bottomer left Mr Cooper holding the open gate in one hand and the bell pull in the other, but when he came back the gate was closed and Mr Cooper gone. How he had fallen down is unknown, as no one was present at the time. His body was recovered 60 fathoms below in the Kiltongue bottom of the shaft. He was married, and leaves a widow. [Scotsman 14 December 1923]

8 January 1924

Douglas – Fatal Colliery Accident – Robert Bulloch, 36, colliery fireman, residing at the Cross, Douglas, died in Douglas Cottage Hospital on Tuesday as the result of injuries sustained through an explosion of gas the Thursday previous. It appears that on the day Bulloch had been going his usual round of inspection in a slope dook in the seven feet west section of Douglas Castle Colliery. A quantity of gas which has accumulated in this section exploded, burning him severely on both arms from the result of which injuries he died as stated. [Hamilton Advertiser January 12 1924]

18 January 1924

Fatal Accident - On Friday of last week Mr James Clarke, Divity, while at work in one of the Auchlochan Collieries met with a serious accident, a large stone falling from the roof and pinning him under it. On getting him released it was found his injuries were of such a nature that his removal to the infirmary was thought necessary, but he expired before reaching there. Much sympathy is felt for his widow and family in their sad bereavement. [Hamilton Advertiser 26 January 1924]

16 February 1924

Pit Accident At Cambuslang – One Killed; Another Injured - Early on Saturday morning an accident took place in Gateside Colliery, No. 2, Cambuslang, which is owned by the Flemington Coal Company (Ltd.) As a result of the accident one miner was killed and another was injured. It appears that the two men who were employed as borers, were engaged driving a "stone mine," and had set a number of shots. In the belief that all had fired, they returned to examine the effect, with the result that one of the shots, which had held fire, came away in blast, and the two men received the full force of the explosion. Joseph Boyce (56), married, who resided at Buchanan Square, Silverbanks, Cambuslang, was killed outright, having received terrible injuries to the head and chest, and his right arm was practically torn away. Arthur Donnelly (51), single, who resides at Westburn Rows, Westburn, Cambuslang, was injured about the head, with serious injuries to the eyes. He was conveyed to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 18 February 1924]

26 February 1924

Colliery Accident near Glasgow - Early yesterday morning a married man named Thomas Rowan, about 30 years of age, a brushing contractor , who resided at 12 Delburn Street Parkhead, Glasgow, was killed by a heavy fall from the roof while working at No, 1 Pit, Robroyston colliery, near Glasgow. [Scotsman 27 February 1924]

7 March 1924

Rutherglen Miner's Death – The death was reported yesterday of Donald M'Auley, miner, Queen Street, Rutherglen, who was recently severely injured by a shot that was fired in blasting operations in Clyde Colliery, Carmyle. M'Auley, who had been removed to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, has left a widow and family. [Scotsman 8 March 1924]

3 May 1924

Pit Accident - Local Man Succumbs in Infirmary - Edward Thomas Eathorne, haulage man, residing at 35 Pollock Street, Motherwell, died in the Glasgow Royal Infirmary late on Saturday evening as the result of an accident he sustained while following his duty at Parkhead Colliery. Deceased had gone along the road with a rake of hutches. The haulage engine driver, on receiving a signal to stop, did so, and on a search being made he ascertained the cause of the accident. Eathorne was discovered very seriously injured. He was attended by Dr M'Donald and removed to the Royal Infirmary, where he died, as stated, late on Saturday night. Deceased was 47 years of age, and was a married man. [Motherwell Times 9 May 1924]

1 August 1924

12 August 1924

Explosion At Doctor’s Pit – One Man Killed – Another Injured - On Tuesday at mid-day another of those frequently recurring colliery fatalities which casts a gloom over the local mining communities took place at the Doctor’s Pit, Broomside Colliery, resulting in the death of one man and serious injury to another. It appears that Adam Galloway, a miner residing at Thistle• Street, Motherwell, and John Weir, a miner, residing at 252 Caledonian Street, Motherwell, were at work in the Pyotshaw seam, and in the course of the operations a shot was prepared with strum and gelignite, and Galloway and Weir had retired until it took effect. The explosion was delayed, however, and the men are said to have left their places of safety. Just then the shot went off, and both men were buried in the debris. Help was soon forthcoming and comrades commenced the task of removing the debris and extricating the unfortunate men. Drs. Robertson and Wyper were summoned, and were in attendance when the men were brought up. Galloway was found to be dead, he having received terrible injuries to head and body. Weir who was also severely injured on the head and body, had his injuries attended to, and was later removed to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary. The news of the sad occurrence caused a painful sensation in the colliery, where both men were held in high respect.  A TRAGIC COINCIDENCE. - Adam Galloway, who lost his life in the accident, was a well-known bandsman. He was the conductor of the orchestra known as Galloway’s Orchestra, and his services were much in demand at social functions, It is a tragic coincidence that his father was killed in the same colliery twelve years ago, a few yards from the scene of yesterday’s accident. Adam Galloway was working in the same pit the day his father was killed. Galloway was a married man, and he leaves a widow and three of a family. Weir is also a married man with a family. [Motherwell Times 15 August 1924]

5 December 1924

Fatal Pit Explosion at Mount Vernon - A miner named John Ramsay (29), residing at 941 Shettleston Road, Shettleston, has died in the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, from the effects of burning sustained in an explosion which took place while he was at work in Kenmuirhill colliery, Mount Vernon. Another man, who was working within a short distance of deceased, escaped without injury. [Scotsman 9 December 1924]

6 December 1924

Fatal Fall Down A Shaft - James Parkins, residing at Old Mill Farm, and employed at Polquairn colliery, Lanarkshire, fell down the pit shaft on Saturday morning, a distance of 55 fathoms, and was killed. Deceased, who started work two days ago had recently erected a tomato growing glasshouse on a large scale, and had several acres under strawberry cultivation. [Scotsman 8 December 1924]

17 February 1925

Glasgow Pit Accident – Son Killed & Father Injured – A 17 year old youth was killed and his father seriously injured in a pit accident which occurred yesterday in the Blackhill Colliery at Lambhill, near Glasgow. Observing a piece of stone fall near to the spot where his son Samuel Gorman was engaged, James Gorman, 52, who resided at The Barns, Maryhill, made an attempt to reach the youth and pull him to a place of safety. Before he got to the lad's side there was a further fall of material, which struck the son and, it is believed, killed him outright. Both father and son were buried beneath the debris, and nearly an hour elapsed before they were extricated. Samuel Gorman was found to be dead, while his father was suffering from internal injuries of a grave character, necessitating his immediate removal to the Western Infirmary. [Scotsman 18 February 1925]

NB James Logan Gormal died 18 February 1925 in Western Infirmary.

2 June 1925

Tarbrax – Sad Fatal Accident – An accident of very sad character, resulting in the death of Robert M'Meechan, 17, pony driver, Tarbrax Rows, took place in Viewfield Pit early on Tuesday morning. It seems that the young man had gone in about seven o'clock in the course of his duties to groom a pony. The animal appears to have kicked out with its hind feet, striking M'Meehan in the region of the heart and inflicting injury from which he died almost instantly. The deep sympathy of the whole community goes out to his bereaved parents. [Hamilton Advertiser June 6 1925]

2 June, 16 June & 2 July 1925

Fatal Accident Inquiry – Before Sheriff Harvey and a jury, on Friday last week, inquiry was held into the circumstances connected with the death by accident of the following: - John Carswell (24), miner, Braehead View, Forth, who died as the result of an accident in Wilsontown Colliery on June 16th; Robert M'Meechan (17), pony driver, Tarbrax Rows, who died from the kick of a pony in Viewfield Pit, Tarbrax, on 2nd June; John Gray (49), repairer, who died from injuries received falling down the shaft of Lord Dunglass Colliery on 2nd July; and into the circumstances connected with the deaths of Robert M'Intyre (55), Birks Place, Law; John Thomson (49), Woodlands Square, Law; John Thomson (27) Wilsons Rows, Law; and Charles Horne (42) Burnknowe Street, Overtown, all of whom were killed as the result of the winding accident at Brownlie Colliery, Law, on 5th May. With the exception of the Law accident none of the above fatal accidents presented any unusual features and the jury returned a formal verdict in accordance with the evidence in each case. [Hamilton Advertiser 8 August 1925]

27 October 1925

Scottish Pit Explosion – Seven Miners Injured - When the night shift were at work in Farme Colliery, Rutherglen, which is owned by the Farme Colliery Company (Ltd.), an explosion occurred yesterday morning, as a result of which seven men were injured. About a dozen men wore working in the vicinity, four of whom apparently received the full force of the explosion, and were the most seriously injured. They are believed to be John Macmillan (father), and Hugh Macmillan (son), Thomas Anderson, Rutherglen, and a man named M'Laughlan, who is believed to reside in Cambuslang. They were taken to Glasgow Royal Infirmary and detained. The other three men, who were slightly injured by the explosion, wore able to proceed home. On inquiry at the Infirmary last night, it was learned that, while M'Laughlan was progressing fairly well, the condition of the others was not so satisfactory. [The Scotsman 28 October 1925]

7 December 1925

Cambuslang Pit Accident – One Man Killed – Another Injured - A serious accident occurred in Loanend Colliery, Cambuslang, which is owned by Arch. Russell & Co. (Ltd.), when a number of hutches broke away, and two miners were unable to get clear. John Puddy, who resided in Blantyre, was killed instantaneously, and James Duvanney, Flemington, Cambuslang, who was seriously injured, was removed to Glasgow Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 9 December 1925]

NB - correct name of fatality was William Dowdell