Lothians Accidents 1915-1920

This section contains newspaper reports on selected accidents in the Lothians between 1915 and 1920 inclusive. Please check the indexes in the Accidents Section for reports by the Inspector of Mines and accidents in other areas.

1 January 1915

Winchburgh - Accident - About 7.30am on Friday a rather serious accident occurred at No 35 pit, belonging to Young's Oil Coy. Peter Binnie, miner's drawer, residing at West Burnside, Broxburn, was occupied assisting his faceman to fix a crown at the working face, when a quantity of stone fell from the roof, and struck him on the left side, pinning him to the pavement. He sustained a compound fracture to his left thigh and two simple fractures above the knee of the same leg. He was attended by Dr Kelso and afterwards removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [West Lothian Courier 8 January 1915]

11 January 1915

Seafield and Deans - Fatal Result of An Accident - On Friday, in No 3 Mine, Deans Works, belonging to Pumpherston Oil Coy. Ltd, Joseph Roy, miner, residing at Livingston, was severely burned. It appears that he was using a naked lamp when he entered a place where there was a pocket of gas. He was severely burned about the face and hands. The same day he was removed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. On Monday morning, despite every medical attention he succumbed to his injuries. [West Lothian Courier 15 January 1915]

30 January 1915

West Calder - Accident - On Saturday, whilst at work in No 26 Mine, William Anthony was burned about the hands, arms, and neck by an explosion of gas in one of the workings. The explosion being slight his injuries fortunately are not severe. [West Lothian Courier 5 February 1915]

10 February 1915

Blackburn - Accidents - On Wednesday a slight accident occurred to an employee in the “Latch” Pit, Blackburn, named Arch. Hamilton, he sustaining an injury to the side of his head and body, due to a fall from the roof. He is progressing favourably. In the No 3 Seafield Mine this week, an employee named McGonigal, Seafield, was injured on the back, while following his employment. We understand he is also progressing as satisfactorily as can be expected. [West Lothian Courier 12 February 1915]

17 February 1915

Explosion In A Bo'ness Pit – Five Miners Injured - About half-past seven o'-clock yesterday morning a serious explosion occurred in No. 2 pit, Grangepans belonging to the Bridgeness Coal Company, Bo'ness, by which five miners were injured, two of them somewhat seriously. The names of the men and the nature of their injuries are:-

Hugh Bell, miner, Craigfoot Terrace, Grangepans -Fractured spine, burns to the head and face, and severe shock.
Robert Smellie, fireman, Learmonth's Buildings, Grangepans - General severe burns, and shock.
Wm. Meldrum, miner, Fordale Terrace, Carriden – Burns and bruised back.
Chas. Sneddon, miner, Cairns Buildings, Grangepans - Burns to back of neck and hands.
Richard Robertson, miner, Drysdale Buildings, Corbiehall - Both eyes scorched, and superficial burns to shoulders and arms.

A sixth man, named Andrew Lapsley, employed in the mine, escaped uninjured. He resides at Fordale Terrace, Carriden. The men were driving a stone mine from the pit bottom to the smithy coal. Before operations were begun for the day the pit was duly inspected by the official fireman, who reported that the mine was free of noxious or inflammable gases. Soon after the men had started a violent explosion occurred, by the force of which Bell and Meldrum were swept off their feet and thrown against the building. The place was plunged in darkness, and the other men crawled and groped their way to the pit bottom. With all speed the workers there went to the aid of Bell and Meldrum, who were found lying in a serious condition. News of the occurrence spread rapidly, and when the men were brought to the pit head there was a large crowd of people assembled in the vicinity. Sneddon and Robertson were able to walk home, and the other three were attended to by doctors, who saw to their removal to their respective homes. After treatment Bell and Smellie were taken by ambulance to the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh.

Saved By A hutch - In the course of an interview Richard Robertson said he was employed as drawer to Chas. Sneddon in the 2-feet coal section, and the other men were about 150 yards away. A shot was fired at the face by Sneddon, and soon after that the explosion occurred. Robertson attributes his escape to the protection afforded him by a hutch which he was pushing at the time. The flames passed over him like a flash of lightning and travelled in the direction of the shaft. Two workers from the pit bottom named James Birnie and J. Sneddon. arrived with two safety lamps and picked up Bell and Smellie. Meldrum was found some time later, and the three men were taken to the pit bottom in hutches, and subsequently taken to the pithead. Chas. Sneddon said he had certainly had a lucky escape, and what saved him considerably was a moleskin waistcoat which he wore. He himself inspected his working place a few minutes before the explosion and found it clear. Suddenly a flash passed over his head, burning him about the neck and hands. The atmosphere was suffocating, and he got out of it as quickly as possible, made for the pit bottom, and told the pit bottomer to go to the aid of the less fortunate men. [Scotsman 18 February 1915]

NB Robert Sneddon Smellie, died on 19 February 1915 at the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh
Hugh Chalmers Bell, miner, died on 17 September 1915 at the Longmore Hospital for Incurables, Edinburgh

19 February 1915

Bo'ness - Bo'ness Mining Accident Ends Fatally - The death has occurred in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary of John M'Lean (18) who recently met with an accident in No 2 Pit, belonging to Kinneil Coal Company. He was coupling hutches at the foot of a brae when a runaway hutch swept down the incline and jammed him against another hutch by which he sustained very serious injuries to his head and body. [West Lothian Courier 26 February 1915]

25 February 1915

Accidents at Seafield Oil Works - John Hickie, a married man, residing at Seafield, and employed as a miner in Breich shale pit, belonging to the Pumpherston Oil Company, lost his life by an accident in the pit on Thursday. He was working at the shale face when about three tons of material fell upon him, killing him on the spot. Mr Robert Anderson, the works manager, had his leg broken through coming into contact with a haulage rope at the works. [Scotsman 27 February 1915]

Seafield and Deans - Fatality At Breich pit - Early on Thursday morning a young miner named John Hickie was fatally injured by a fall of shale in Breich Pit. Assistance was speedily rendered but when the unfortunate man was extricated, life was found to be extinct. Deceased was about 26 years of age and leaves a widow and one young child. [West Lothian Courier 26 February 1915]

1 March 1915

Avonbridge - Serious Pit Accident - Thomas Hunter, undermanager of the “Guardroom” Shieldhill, belonging to the Carron Coy, met with a serious accident on Monday last. It seems that the haulage rope was skidding on the drum and Hunter was throwing sand thereon in order to prevent this skidding when somehow or other his hand got caught under the rope with the result that the unfortunate man was dragged four times round the drum before the haulage engine could be stopped. When released it was found that his right hand had been practically torn off at the wrist. The accident occurred between 6 and 7 o'clock in the morning. The injured man was removed to Falkirk Infirmary. [West Lothian Courier 5 March 1915]

12 April 1915

Fatal Pit Accident in Midlothian - By the fall of about three tons of coal in the workings of the Moat Pit, near Roslin, a miner named Richard Horsburgh was fatally injured yesterday morning. He was conveyed in an ambulance to his house at Fishers', Tryst, Glencorse, as a first step towards his being taken to the Royal Infirmary, but he died within half an hour of his arrival at his home. He was about 60 years of age, and is survived by his widow and a grown-up family. [Scotsman 13 April 1915]

15 April 1915

Musselburgh Miner Killed - John Meyers (35), miner; 5 Mitchell Street, Musselburgh, was crushed to death under a fall of coal in No. 2 Pit, Carberry colliery,of the Edinburgh Collieries Company. Two companions, Wm. Johnston and Thomas White were able to profit by a warning cracking and reach a safe place. Myers was a married man. [Scotsman 16 April 1915]

NB Death certificate gives surname as Mairs

16 April & 11 May 1915

Workmen's Compensation Cases - Sheriff MacLeod has awarded £300 compensation , with expenses, in the action recently raised by the representatives of the late Andrew Todd, 68 Ravenshaugh Road, Levenhall, Musselburgh, against the Summerlee Iron Company in respect of the death of the workman who was injured in Prestongrange Colliery by a runaway hutch striking him on the chest. He subsequently died from the effects of his injuries. £300 has also been awarded in the action at the instance of the representatives of the late Alexander M'Luckie, miner, 4 Crown Square, Cockenzie, against the Edinburgh Collieries Company (Limited) for compensation. The deceased workman was injured in Prestonlinks Colliery by a fall of stone from the roof on 1st May last, and died in the Royal Infirmary on 11th May. Agents for the Claimants - Gray, Muirhead, & Carmichael, S.S.C., Dalkeith and Edinburgh. Agent for the Respondents - W. T. Craig, solicitor , Glasgow. [Scotsman 16 October 1915]

Andrew Gilchrist Todd died 16 April 1915 in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary

28 April 1915

James Brown, a brother of Provost Brown, Dalkeith, was killed as the result of fall of coal in No. 2 Pit, Niddrie. [Sunday Post 2 May 1915]

29 April 1915

Fatal Result of a Mine Explosion – Alexander Haddow, mining fireman, 94 Midhope Place, Winchburgh, has died from injuries received in Duddingston Mine, Winchburgh, belonging to Oakbank Oil Company, by an explosion of gas on Tuesday morning. From the first, his condition was serious, and he was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Another man was burned on the same occasion, but is recovering. [Scotsman 1 May 1915]

Winchburgh - Mining Accident - About 7am on Monday last, Alex Haddow, fireman, Winchburgh, and Alex Greenhorn, oncost man, Winchburgh, met with a burning accident whilst employed in No 3 Shale Mine, Duddingston, belonging to Oakbank Oil Coy., Ltd. Both men were about to remove brattice boards and cloths from one working place and fix in another. Haddow ascended a ladder leading to the place with Greenhorn immediately behind, when an explosion of gas occurred. Haddow being nearest to the explosion received the severest injuries sustaining terrible burns on the face, shoulders, hands and back, while Greenhorn sustained burns on the face and hands. The unfortunate men were attended to by Dr Stark, and Haddow was at once removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [West Lothian Courier 30 April 1915]

Winchburgh - Sequel To Mining Accident - As a result of injuries sustained in the recent accident in Duddingston Mine, as reported in our columns last week, Alexander Haddow died in the Royal Infirmary last Friday morning. The interment took place in Winchburgh Cemetery on Monday afternoon. Much sympathy is extended to the bereaved widow and family. [West Lothian Courier 7 May 1915]

30 April  1915

Fatal Mining Accident - A young man named Henry Hardie has lost his life in Greenrig colliery , near Fauldhouse. He had been at work in the main coal section, when he was knocked down by a rake of runaway hutches. His injuries were of so serious a nature he was promptly removed to the Royal Infirmary Edinburgh, where he died the following morning. He resided at Victoria Buildings, Fauldhouse. [Scotsman 5 May 1915]

Fatal Result of A Pit Accident – A young man named Henry Hardie lost his life in Greenrigg Colliery on Thursday last. He had been at work in the main coal section when he was knocked down by a rake of runaway hutches. His injuries were of a serious nature and he was immediately removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary where he died the following day. The unfortunate lad, who was under 17 years of age had only recently come to the district. He resided in the Victoria Buildings, Fauldhouse. [Hamilton Advertiser 8 May 1915]

Fauldhouse - Fatal Mining Accident - An accident of a serious nature occurred on Thursday last in the main coal section of No 1 Greenrigg Colliery, when Hendry Hardie, 16, sustained such severe injuries as to necessitate his removal to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. It appears that Hardie was engaged in the No 1 Slope Dook as a clipper, and while at work, a rake of hutches came away upon him, inflicting severe injuries to his head. The doctor in attendance ordered his removal to the Infirmary at once. He died, however, the following morning. Deceased came to the District about 3 weeks ago from Fife accompanied by his father and a brother, previous to the whole family coming here to reside. [West Lothian Courier 7 May 1915]

10 May 1915

Fatal Accident at Bathgate - John Martin (54), a waggon trimmer, residing in lodgings at Bridgend, Bathgate, and employed at the Mosside Pit of Messrs Gavin Paul & Sons, met with a fatal accident yesterday morning. Martin had been engaged in the braking of empty waggons adjacent to the colliery "scree." While doing this it is supposed he tripped and fell and one of the waggons passed over him. He died within half an hour of the accident. [Scotsman 11 May 1915]

Fatality Near Mosside Colliery - On Monday morning, about 8.30, John Martin, aged about 50 years, while at work as a coal trimmer at Mosside Colliery, was fatally injured. He was knocked down by an empty waggon, which passed over his body. He received compound fractures to his right thigh, while he was also severely crushed. With all speed he was conveyed to Bathgate for medical attention but died on the way. Deceased resided at Bridgend, Bathgate. [West Lothian Courier 14 May 1915]

12 May 1915

Blackridge - Accident At Blackridge pit - On Wednesday, John Sneddon, overman, Craig Terrace, Blackridge, received two fractures to his right leg above the ankle in No 3 Blackridge Pit. The accident was due to a fall of coal and debris. [West Lothian Courier 14 May 1915]

15 May 1915

Miner Killed at Pumpherston - A miner named Thomas Tafs has lost his life in No. 4 shale mine, belonging to the Pumpherston Oil Company. He was at work when a quantity of material fell from the roof and broke his neck. [Scotsman 20 May 1915]

20 May 1915

Bathgate Miner Killed - George Campbell (27), miner, son of Mr and Mrs Campbell, Pentland View, Bathgate, has succumbed to injuries sustained in Riddochhill Pit. While working at the face he was struck down and enveloped in a quantity of debris. His left knee was fractured and his head severely injured. He died while being conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Edinburgh Evening News 21 May 1915]

21 May 1915

Miner Killed At Prestonpans - A miner named Alex. Dickson, aged 23 years, who resided in Front Street, Cuthill, was yesterday killed whilst at work in Prestongrange Colliery, through being run over by loaded hutches. Dickson, who belonged to Bellshill district, only recently came to the district. [Edinburgh Evening News 22 May 1915]

May 1915

Fauldhouse – Pit Accident – A young man named Robert Barrie, residing in Fauldhouse sustained serious injuries while at work in Greenrigg Colliery. A fall came away from the roof unexpectedly and pinned the unfortunate man underneath. After being attended by Dr Gilchrist he was conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for treatment. [Hamilton Advertiser 29 May 1915]

1 June 1915

Musselburgh Miner Killed – A fall of stone in the underground workings of Carberry Pit, of the Edinburgh Collieries Company (Limited), yesterday morning caused the instantaneous death of John Thomson, miner, Market Street, Musselburgh. He leaves a widow an a family.[Scotsman 3 June 1915]

Musselburgh Miner Killed - Last night a miner, named John Thomson, residing at Market Street, Musselburgh, was killed by a fall of stone at the Old Pit, Carberry. He had just arrived at the working at which he was employed to commence his usual night shift, when an ominous cracking in the roof immediately followed by heavy fall of stones took place. Thomson was killed instantaneously. He leaves a widow and a large family. [Edinburgh Evening News 2 June 1915]

29 August 1915

Miner killed at Polton colliery - While some alterations were being made at the Polton pit of the Lothian Coal Company (Ltd.) yesterday, one of the workmen engaged, named David Hogg, was fatally injured through a large stone from the roof falling upon him. He resided at 15 Poltonhall, Bonnyrigg. [Scotsman 30 August 1915]

30 August 1915

West Calder – Pit Explosion – A serious burning accident took place on Monday in Westmains Colliery, belonging to Young's Oil Company. Some gas had accumulated in one of the workings, and it exploded on coming into contact with the light of a miner's lamp. Two miners, Thomas Smith fireman, West Calder and David Ellis, were severely burned and had to be taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser 4 September 1915]

NB David Ellis age 18, died 17 September 1918 in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary

20 September 1915

Miner Killed at Whitburn - A miner named James Halley was killed in the Hatch Pit, near Whitburn, yesterday by a large fall taking place. His back and both legs were broken, and Halley died before he could be brought to the surface. He leaves a young family. [Scotsman 23 September 1915]

NB Name should be James Healy.  Many thanks to Pat for supplying additional details on James.

29 September 1915

Miner Killed Near Tranent – Thomas Faulds, a young married miner, who resided at Macmerry, was yesterday killed in St Germains Pit, near Tranent, by a fall of stone from the roof. [Edinburgh Evening News 30 September 1915]

4 October 1915

Peculiar Compensation Case - In February 1913 John MacLeod, miner, 35 Crown Square, Cockenzie, received an injury to his right knee by a hutch full of coal coming back on him and striking that knee. MacLeod, who was 58 years of age was kept in bed for several weeks. As a result of the accident his health was broken, and he became more and more frail until in October 1915 he died of heart failure. MacLeod, from the date of the accident to the date of his death, received compensation after an action in the Sheriff Court at Haddington . On MacLeod's death his widow claimed compensation on the ground that the death was the result of the accident. The Edinburgh Collieries Company, the employers, defended the claim, and stated that MacLeod's death was due to natural causes, was not the result of the accident,, and that, in any case, they were prejudiced from not having an opportunity to hold a post-mortem examination. The evidence of various medical experts was taken, some of these holding that the death could not be attributed to the accident, two years and eighth months before the death, while others stated that in their opinion the death was at least accelerated by the accident. Sheriff MacLeod has issued his judgment, finding MacLeod's widow entitled to compensation, on the ground that the death was the result of the accident. [Scotsman 26 July 1916]

9 October 1915

Miner Killed at Gorebridge - A miner named William M'Gadie, a native of Co. Donegal, was so seriously injured on Saturday morning by a fall of stone in one of the pits of the Arniston Coal Company (Limited), Gorebridge, that he died while being removed to the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh. Deceased resided at Arniston. [Scotsman 11 October 1915]

16 October 1915

Fatal Accident a Mid-Calder Mine - An accident , resulting in the death of a shale miner named Robert Dudgeon, residing in Oakbank, happened in the Oakbank Shale Mine, Newfarm, Mid-Calder, on Saturday. Dudgeon was engaged in brushing at the time, when a heavy fall of shale fell upon the unfortunate man, and when the body was recovered life was found to be extinct. He leaves a widow and three of a family. [Scotsman 19 October 1915]

26 October 1915

Fatal Accident at Kinnell colliery - Robert Forester (28), roadsman , residing at Kinneil Road, Bo'ness, yesterday met with a fatal accident in No. 2 Snab Pit, belonging to Kinneil Coal Co. He leant over to clear an obstruction on a hutch road on a “Cowsey” Brae when he was struck by and lifted on to the top of a running hutch. Carried for a short distance he was crushed against the roof, sustaining serious injuries, from which he died a few hours later. He leaves a widow and three children. [Scotsman 27 October 1915]

2 November 1915

Musselburgh Miner Killed - Alexander Murray , a miner , who resided with his parents in Deantown, Musselburgh, was instantaneously killed by being crushed under a fall of stone in the Carberry Pit of the Edinburgh Collieries Company (Ltd.) yesterday. [Scotsman 3 November 1915]

2 November 1915

Fatal Accident In A Kinneil Pit - John Watt, pit-bottomer, Castleloan, died yesterday from the effects of injuries received the previous day in No. 1 Snab Pit, Kinneil, belonging to Kinneil Coal Company. He was in the pit bottom when he was struck by a wire haulage rope which had been overstrained in consequence of a rake of hutches going off the road. Watt sustained injuries to the chest, and his left upper arm was fractured. He leaves a widow and young family. [Scotsman 4 November 1915]

13 November 1915

Dalkeith Lad Fatally Injured - On Saturday night David Golder, 15 years age, second son of William Golder, 44 Westfield Park, Dalkeith, died in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary from injuries to his head and thigh received in a breakaway of hutches in the Emily Pit, Arniston [Edinburgh Evening News 15 November 1915]

19 November 1915

Fatal Mining Accident at West Calder - Yesterday a limestone miner named John Girdwood, residing at New Hermand, West Calder, lost his life by an accident in the Midlothian Company's limestone pit at Harburn. Two shots were being fired at different places in the pit, and Girdwood, hearing one go off, thought it was his. He was proceeding to see his place, when his own shot went off and he was killed. He leaves a widow and young family. [Scotsman 20 November 1915]

5 January 1916

Unfenced Machinery at an East Lothian Pit - At Haddington Sheriff Court yesterday - before Sheriff Macleod - the sequel to a recent fatal accident at Elphingstone colliery, whereby a lad named John M'Neill, coal-picker, Tranent,met his death by being carried round shafting and crushed, took place in the trial of William Leckie, manager, Fleets Pit, Elphingstone Colliery. The charge against him was that between January 1 and 5, 1916, both days inclusive, he, being manager, of the Fleets Pit, failed to keep securely fenced exposed and dangerous machinery used at the pithead, which, on January 5, had caused the death of John M'Neill. The evidence occupied several hours. His Lordship found accused not guilty as regarded the dates January 1 to 4, both inclusive, but found the charge proved as regarded January 5. Having regard to the extenuating circumstances of the case, he found it inexpedient to inflict any but a nominal punishment and he dismissed the charge under the Probation of Offenders Act, 1907. [Scotsman 21 March 1916]

16 February 1916

Lad Killed At Fauldhouse - During the gale in the Fauldhouse district on Wednesday, William M'Gilvray (14), whilst employed stacking wood at Greenrigg Pit, United Collieries was struck on the head by a sheet of corrugated iron, blown off the roof of the pithead, and was instantaneously killed. [Scotsman 17 February 1916]

11 May 1916

Fatal Accident in Broxburn Shale Mine - Yesterday afternoon a miner's drawer named Thomas Crawford, who resided in Main Street, Uphall, was killed by a fall of shale in Curdubs Mine, belonging to Broxburn Oil Company. A miner named Matthew Allan, who resides at Alexander Street, Uphall, received slight injuries and shock. [Scotsman 12 May 1916]

15 June 1916

On 15th June, at Philpstoun No. 1 Shale Mine, owned by Messrs. James Ross and Co., two boys, aged 15 and 17, were killed by a fall of roof. The one boy had gone outbye for a wedge for his father, with whom he worked, and was joined by the other boy, who attended to a haulage motor. Together they went to the face, and after the one boy had handed the wedge to his father, the two were sitting some 5 yards back when the roof above them, which was supported on old railway rails, weighted, and breaking two rails fell upon them. After the accident it was seen that the boundaries of the roof which fell were formed by keen and glassy lypes. The use of old rails as bars was discontinued. [Report by H Walker, Inspector of Mines & Quarries, Scotland Division for the year 1916]

Two lads, named Homer Wilson (17) and James M'Kirdy (15), who resided at Philpstoun and, Bridgend respectively, were killed in No, 1 Philpstoun Shale Mine, near Linlithgow at a late hour, on Thursday night. The lads were standing together in a part of the mine when the roof above them collapsed. One of the lads was killed instantaneously, and the other lived only a few minutes after he was extricated. M'Kirdy's father, who joined the army after the outbreak of war, was killed in action at the Dardanelles. [Scotsman 17 June 1916]

NB Death certificates give names as Homer Wilson and Adam Nelson.  The FAI record in the NAS catalogue and the RCE give Adam Nelson's name as Adam Nelson McIlloney

16 June 1916

Scottish Pedestrian Killed - Matthew Wilson, who was killed instantaneously, while at work as miner in Carberry Pit, near Musselburgh, was the well-known Scottish professional pedestrian. He leaves a widow and young family. [Scotsman 19 June 1916]

13 September 1916

Fatal Pit Accident at Bathgate - A distressing accident occurred at Easton pit, Bathgate yesterday forenoon, whereby one man lost his life, and two others were injured. It appears that the men were following their employment as miners when a large quantity of material became detached from the roof and fell on them. Thomas Morris, the man killed was 44 years of age, married, and resided in South Bridge Street. One of the injured men, Matthew Charles (33), resides at North Street. He was removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. The third men, whose injuries were not so severe, was removed to his home. [Scotsman 14 September 1916]

20 September 1916

Fatal Colliery Accident At Prestonpans - At Prestongrange colliery, Prestonpans (Mossend and Summerlee Iron Company), yesterday, a pithead worker, Peter Cairney, 13 years of age, was instantaneously killed through being crushed between the cage, as it was about to descend, and the floor of the pithead. He resided with his parents at Middle Street Prestonpans.[Scotsman 21 September 1916]

20 August 1917

Fatal Pit Accident At Newcraighall – Fatal Injuries were sustained by Robert Wood (54), a miner, residing at 27 Second Avenue, Newcraighall, who was crushed by a hutch in the underground workings of the Klondyke Pit, Newcraighall, of the Niddrie and Benhar Coal Company. He leaves a widow and family. [Scotsman 22 August 1917]

29 August 1917

Fatal Mining Accident At Dean's Works – On Wednesday evening a young man named Edward O'Donnell, while working at the face in No 4 Shale mine Dean's belonging to the Pumpherston Oil Company, was so severely injured by a fall of shale that he died shortly afterwards. [Scotsman 31 August 1917]

1 September 1917

Two Coal Miners Killed – On Saturday two coal miners, Robert Colquhoun, a married man who lived at Longridge, and Mr Pate, a married man who stayed at Breich Terrace, West Calder, lost their lives by mining accidents. Pate was killed in Woodmuir Colliery and Colquhoun in Loganlea Colliery, by falls of stones from the roof. Both pits belong to the United Collieries(Limited). [Scotsman 3 September 1917]

28 September 1917

Fatal Mining Accident at Broxburn - An elderly man, named Archibald M'Liver who resided at Coronation Buildings Broxburn, was yesterday killed in Tanspark Mine, belonging to Young's Oil Company. M'Liver was engaged working at the face, when a large quantity of shale came away upon him and when he was extricated life was found to be extinct. [Scotsman 29 September 1917]

15 January 1918

Robert Steele (17), shunter, was fatally injured by being run over by the Prestongrange colliery locomotive. He is the eldest son of William Stock. Summerlee Street, Prestonpans. [Scotsman 18 January 1918]

25 January 1918

John M'Gilvary (31), United Buildings, Fauldhouse , who worked at Greenrig Colliery, United Collieries, was killed by a fall from the colliery roof. [Scotsman 29 January 1918]

30 January 1918

MINING FATALITY IN WEST LOTHIAN. - At Blackrigg Colliery, owned by the United Collieries, Ltd., Joseph Mills, a miner's drawer, Westrigg, near Armadale was yesterday jammed between two hutches and instantaneously killed. [Edinburgh Evening News 31 January 1918]

28 February 1918

James Stein, a young married miner, who resided at Bridgend, Linlithgow, was fatally injured by a fall from the roof in one of the mines of James Ross & Co., Philpstoun Oilworks. A younger brother, John Stein, was severely injured by the same fall. [Scotsman 2 March 1918]

John Stein, the young Philpstoun miner who on Thursday was injured in a mine by a fall of stone from the roof, died on Friday night. An elder brother, James Paris Stein, was killed by the same fall. [Scotsman 4 March 1918]

12 April 1918

A sixteen-year-old pithead girl, Christina Clark. 27 Avenue Square, New Craighall, was instantaneously killed at Woolmet Colliery of the Niddrie and Benhar Coal Company by being struck on the throat by a handle that had broken off from a crane. [Scotsman 13 April 1918]

22 June 1918

SHALE MINER KILLED. Last night a young Broxburn shale miner, named William M’Kee, residing at Greendykes Road, was killed by a heavy fall of shale which occurred in Westwood Mine, belonging to Oakbank Oil Company, Ltd. He died while being conveyed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. M'Kee was released from the Army last November to resume his occupation as a shale miner, and in the Royal Scots had seen a good deal of active service in France. He was only recently married. [Edinburgh Evening News 22 June 1918]

25 June 1918

A man named Hamilton, a miner employed in Easton Pit, Bathgate, was killed by a fall of stone from the roof. He resided in Torphichen. [Scotsman 26 June 1918]

22 July 1918

Thomas Smith, a young miner, who had resumed work in Woodha' Pit, Pencaitland, after the holidays, was struck on the side of the head by a piece of falling coal and killed instantaneously. [Scotsman 23 July 1918]

8 August 1918

Colliery Accident At Smeaton – Two Lives Lost - An accident by which two workmen were suffocated occurred during the back shift in the Dalkeith Collieries at Smeaton, leased to Messrs A G. Moore & Co., Glasgow. Four workmen had descended to put off the blast, when two of them - Peter MacGovern, fireman, Smeaton Cottages, and David Dunlop, a contractor, Musselburgh - were overcome by the fumes following the exploding of a heavy charge of gelignite. A fellow workman, Robert D. Whyte, 88 High Street, Dalkeith, headed a rescue party. With a mask made from his shirt, which he tore off, he covered his mouth and nose, and rushed in, followed by Francis Lynch and Alexander Combie. Mr Whyte managed to drag out both workmen, but, despite first-aid efforts, they were beyond recovery. Whyte himself collapsed and attention was as soon as possible given him by a local doctor. He was afterwards removed to his home at Dalkeith. His condition during the afternoon was favourable to his complete recovery. [Scotsman 10 August 1918]

22 August 1918

Midlothian Pit Accident – Two Men Killed - An accident resulting in the death of two miners, Thomas Flynn, residing in White's Close West, Dalkeith, and William M'Vee, residing at Durhambank , Bonnyrigg, occurred yesterday afternoon at Woolmet colliery. An air course was being prepared, and as usual gelignite was employed to accomplish the object. The men in question, who with others were taking part in the operation, were overcome by the fumes. A fellow-worker, Alexander Mackintosh, Donaldson's Close, Dalkeith, missing his companions, crawled into the workings, which are some three feet in height. He dragged out the men, but artificial respiration was ineffectual. Flynn was 48 years of age and M'Vee 19 years of age. Both were employed by Mr Alexander M'Vee, a contractor in the ell section, where the mishap occurred. [Scotsman 23 August 1918]

13 November 1918

Damages for Portobello Miner's Widow - Judgement has been given by Sheriff-Substitute Guy in Edinburgh Sheriff Court in a case under the Workmen's Compensation Act, in which Mrs Elizabeth Somerville or Chalmers, residing at 32 Tower Street, Portobello, sued the Niddrie and Benhar coal Company (Ltd.) for £300 compensation, for herself and her two children, in respect of the death of her husband, John Chalmers, which resulted from an accident while he was employed as a miner in the Woolmet Pit, Niddrie. His Lordship held that the cause of death was electrocution, derived from an electrically driven coal cutting machine which deceased had been working, and that the electrocution had operated on a naturally weak constitution. It was agreed between the parties that in the event of the pursuer succeeding in the action the compensation should be fixed at £300, and the Sheriff has given judgement accordingly, with expenses to the pursuer. [Scotsman 12 January 1920]

20 January 1919

William Watters (28), West Sea Side, Prestonpans , while working at a bar coal-cutting machine in Prestongrange colliery, was caught by the revolving bar, and received fatal injuries. [Scotsman 22 January 1919]

4 March 1919

John Fraser, haulage roadman, residing, at Summerlee Street, Cuthill, Prestonpans, was fatally injured on Tuesday while at work on the haulage road, No. 1 Pit, Prestongrange colliery. [Scotsman 6 March 1919]

26 March 1919

Workmen's Compensation - House of Lords and Breach of Rules - Court of Session Decisions Reversed - The House of Lords yesterday reversed the judgement of the First Division of the Court of Session in three appeals arising out of the Workmen's Compensation Act which raised the question, whether or not a workman who did something in breach of prohibitions took himself outside of the sphere of his employment.

In the other case, A. G. Moore & Co., coal masters, Dalkeith, appealed against an award by Sheriff-Substitute Guy, confirmed by the First Division, in favour of Francis Donelly, High Street, Dalkeith. In contravention of the Explosives in Coal Mines Order, Donelly, on 26th March 1919, returned to the shot hole within ten minutes when one of the two shots failed to go off. On his return, the unexploded shot blew off in his face, and he was permanently disabled. The Courts below found that Donelly was not debarred from obtaining compensation.

The House of Lords yesterday allowed the appeal of the employers in all three cases. [Scotsman 18 December 1920]

9 April 1919

Miner’s Fatal Accident – While at work in the Newcraighall pit of the Niddrie and Benhar Coal Company, Robert Whitecross (53) a Musselburgh miner who resided at 61 Inveresk Road, sustained injuries that were fatal. [Edinburgh Evening News 11 April 1919]

18 April 1919

Three young men, belonging to a rescue team which has been assisting to extinguish a fire in the Newliston Shale Mine, near Broxburn, Linlithgowshire, were overcome by bicarbon monoxide gas (commonly known as “white damp”) and suffocated early yesterday morning. Their names are William Gibb of Coatbridge; William Brodie, Cowdenbeath; and Robert Laird, Larbert. [The Times April 19 1919]

West Lothian Mining Tragedy - Three Lives Lost - In attempting to extinguish a fire which had broken out in Newliston Mine, near Broxburn, Linlithgowshire, belonging to Young's Oil Company, three young men of the rescue teams were suffocated yesterday morning by monoxide gas, commonly known as white damp.

On Tuesday, fire was discovered in the upper level of the mine, and about 150 men have been idle since. Local efforts to extinguish the outbreak having failed, the services of several rescue brigades were enlisted. For two days teams from Bathgate and Coatbridge Rescue Brigades were engaged in the work. They were equipped with the latest apparatus in the way of gas masks, &c. necessary for men entering places where the presence of poisonous gases was suspected. Throughout Thursday night about a score of men continued their efforts to subdue the fire, and an attempt was being made by a circuitous route to reach and clear a road which opened on the level in which the fire was burning, but which at present is blocked. It was hoped by this means to establish an air course, and so disperse accumulated smoke and gas. It was while proceeding by this circuitous road, and at a point a considerable distance from the seat of the fire, that carbon monoxide gas was encountered by the members of the Rescue Brigades. All of these men, as has been stated, were equipped with gas masks and respirators but it appears that from some cause yet to be determined, these became ineffective against the deadly gas, for almost all the men became more or less affected by it. Three young men- Wm. Brodie, Cowdenbeath, a member of Bathgate team; Robert Laird, Larbert, a member of Coatbridge team; and Wm Gibb, Coatbridge, also of that team, were seen by their companions to be in a serious condition. Brodie and Laird when brought out of the poisonous area were found to be dead. Gibb was further away than the other two men, and it was found impossible to continue the attempt to recover the body.

Another rescue team from Lesmahagow arrived later in the morning, but in view of all the circumstances it was considered inadvisable to sanction their request to be allowed to attempt the recovery of Gibb's body

Several Government officials visited the mine, and it is understood they prohibited further attempts in the meantime [Scotsman 19 April 1919]

The Shale Mine Fire Near Broxburn - On Friday night it was decided, as the result of a conference between Government officials and the management of Young's Oil Company, to suspend further operations in the direction of combating the fire at Newliston shale mine. The ponies were removed from the lower sections of the mine, and on Saturday the work of damping down the mine was proceeded with. In view of this decision it will be some weeks, possibly months, before any attempt will be made to recover the body of William Gibb, the Coatbridge man who lost his life along with others. The men thrown idle in this mine, numbering more than 100, will, it is expected, get employment in the Company's Ingliston Mine, which is situated about a mile from Newliston Pit. [Scotsman 21 April 1919]

14 May 1919

West Lothian Shale Miner Killed - Robert Douglas 83 Niddry Road, Winchburgh, was killed on Wednesday by a fall of shale in Glen Devon Mine, belonging to Young's Oil Company. He was demobilised in January last after three years' service. [Scotsman 16 May 1919]

17 June 1919

Father's Compensation For Son's Death – Sheriff Orr has given his decision in Edinburgh Sheriff Court in an action brought by Thomas Drury pithead labourer, residing at Paulton, near Bristol, for £234 compensation against the Edinburgh Collieries Company (Ltd.), Wallyford. The claim was in respect that pursuer had been partially dependent on the earnings of his son, who was killed in an accident in Wallyford colliery in June last. The Sheriff found that for several years before his death the son, who was 37 years of ago, and unmarried, contributed 30s a week towards his father's support. He held defenders liable for compensation, under the Workmen's Compensation Act, and assessed the compensation in respect of pursuer's partial dependency at £234. Defenders were also found liable for expenses. [Scotsman 23 February 1920]

NB Death certificate gives surname as Dury

19 June 1919

Addiewell – Accident At Loganlea Colliery – By a fall from the roof at Loganlea Pit on Thursday a workman named Daniel Kelly, 21, was severely crushed about the chest. He was attended to by Dr J Young, and removed to his home in Cross Street, Addiewell, where he lies in a critical condition. [Hamilton Advertiser 21 June 1919]

14 July 1919

Addiewell – Accident At Loganlea Pit – An accident occurred on Monday night in the United Coal Company's pit Loganlea, by which a young man named Alexander Barr, residing in Garden City had his right thigh bone broken by a fall from the roof. He was attended by Dr Clark and afterwards removed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Hamilton Advertiser 19 July 1919]

24 July 1919

Addiewell – Fatal Accident – Thomas Boyce, miner, residing in West Calder, while engaged at his work in West Mains Coal Mine, was killed on Thursday morning by a fall from the roof. Deceased was 52 years of age and unmarried. [Hamilton Advertiser 26 July 1919]

2 August 1919

Fatal accident at Woolmet Colliery - A miner named Carmen Placido (24), son of Angelo Placido, was killed while at work in Woolmet colliery, Millerhill, on Saturday by a fall of material from the mine roof. He only lately resumed work in the pit after serving in the Army for three years. He leaves a widow and child [Scotsman 4 August 1919]

19 September 1919

Boy Killed in a West Calder Pit - Yesterday morning a boy named William Fleming, son of Mr Fleming, Mossend, West Calder, was killed in Breich Shale Pit. He had fallen between a rake of full hutches in motion, and they passed over his body. The lad had just left school and started work in the pit this week. [Scotsman 20 September 1919]

26 September 1919

Explosion Near Bo'ness – Two Miners Killed and Six Severely Injured - A serious explosion occurred yesterday morning in No. 2 Pit, Grangepans, belonging to the Bridgeness Company (Ltd.), resulting in the death of two miners' drawers and severe burning injuries and bruises to other six men employed in the same section. The two men who lost their lives were:-

John Patrick Hamilton (26), unmarried, residing at Ann Terrace; and
Charles Sneddon (19), unmarried, 43a Ann Terrace , Bridgeness.

The names of the injured and the nature of their injuries are:-
Walter Nisbet (32), married, a miner, residing at Forth Place, Bo'ness - severe burns to hands, arms , and body;
George Hawthorn, (25), unmarried, miner, Reid Crescent, Grangepans - extensive burns to head, face, neck, both arms; shoulders, and back;
James Sneddon (60), miner, Learmonth's Building ,Grangepans – shock;
Robert Sneddon (28) - son of the aforementioned James Sneddon - unmarried, drawer, Learmonth's Buildings - hands burned and shock;
James Stanners (40) married, miner, Etna Cottage , Bridgeness - shock and gassed;
Peter Hamilton (34), miner, 8 Mayfield Terrace – shock and burns to hands, arms, and shoulder.

The explosion occurred at 7.15am in what is known as the "Moosie's Dook," in the main coal section. The working place had been previously examined, and was reported clear of gas. There were twelve men in the section, and they had just started work at the coal face when a violent explosion occurred. John Hamilton and Charles Sneddon, who were taking up empty hutches toward the coal face, got, the full force of the explosion. Hamilton was found pinned to the ground by a hutch. His skull was fractured, and death was almost instantaneous. Charles Sneddon was severely burned; his skull was fractured, and he was picked up unconscious. Several men were bruised by being thrown against the building. The explosion attracted to the scene men from the other sections, so that there was no lack of helpers, but the work of rescue was rendered difficult on account of the after-damp, but all the men were ultimately got out.

A large crowd gathered at the pithead, great anxiety and distress prevailing as the injured were brought to the surface. After treatment at the pithead, Sneddon, whose condition was critical, was sent along with Nisbet and Hawthorn to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Sneddon died on the way . The other men injured were taken to their homes. The cause of the explosion is unknown. No 2 Pit, one of the oldest in the locality, was resunk to the smithy coal seam, some fourteen or fifteen years ago, and the coal is worked chiefly towards the sea. About 200 men are employed in the pit and they have been thrown idle by the accident.

Fears were entertained that the main coal section was on fire, and the rescue brigade was mobilised with all speed, and they proceeded to investigate matters, headed by the manager and the undermanager The party delayed donning their respirators , and in the course of the inspection James Pender, captain of the Fire brigade, collapsed. Mr Menzies, manager, was also affected by the poisonous fumes. Dr Fischer descended the pit to make inquiries and assist if necessary. After treatment those affected were brought to the surface, the others being left to continue the investigation. They made no discovery calculated to throw any light on the cause of the explosion, but the theory is advanced that it may have been due to a defective safety lamp. The workings in the main coal section were found damaged, and it will be several days before work in this part is resumed. [Scotsman 27 September 1919]

The Pit Explosion At Bo'ness - Another Death - Bo'ness, Thursday - Walter Nisbet, one of the Bridgeness Company's miners, who was severely burned in the recent explosion at the coal face of No 2 pit, Grange, died in the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, this morning, from the effects of his injuries. He was aged 32, and his widow resides at Forth Place, Bo'ness. This makes the fourth death. [Evening Times 2 October 1919]

NB George Hawthorne died 27 September 1919 in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

29 September 1919

Addiewell – Fatal Accident – On Monday morning, John Rae, residing in Livingstone Street, in the employment of the Scott's Oil Company, Ltd, at their West Mains coal mine, was in the act of oiling the coal picking machine while in motion, when he got entangled with the machinery and was dragged in. Death was instantaneous. Deceased who was 44 years of age, leaves a widow and six of a family. [Hamilton Advertiser 4 October 1919]

22 October 1919

Bo'ness Pit Accident - As the result of an accident caused by a fall from the coal face, Michael H. M'Culloch (57), miner, Fordale Terrace, Carriden , has died in the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh. The accident occurred on Wednesday in the new pit to the rear of Bo'ness Dock, belonging to Carriden Coal Company. [Scotsman 24 October 1919]

A Fall Of Coal - Michael H M'Culloch, miner, in the employment of the Carriden Coal Company, has died from injuries received yesterday in the new pit situated to the rear of Bo'ness dock. A huge piece of coal weighing about a ton fell on M'Culloch. [Evening Times 23 October 1919]

21 November 1919

Fatal Mining Accident Near Broxburn - Joseph Rafferty, a shale miner, residing at Kennedy's Court, Broxburn, was entombed on Friday by a large quantity of shale which fell upon him from the roof while he was at work in Fanspark Mine, near Broxburn, belonging to Young's Oil Company. For eighteen hours a dozen of Rafferty's fellow workmen laboured heroically to remove the material and effect his release, during the greater part of which time Rafferty was known to be alive. At 4.30 on Saturday morning, however, when Rafferty was readied, it was found that he was dead. He was 45 years of ago, and leaves a wife and nine of a family. [Scotsman 24 November 1919]

6 December 1919

Bo'ness Pit Official Drowned – Andrew Falconer, under manager at the Lothian's Pit, Bo'ness was on Saturday morning, drowned in about 50 fathoms of water in the pit. He was repairing a water pipe in the shaft, and from a specially erected scaffold fell into the water some 24 fathoms further down. Deceased, who resided at Castleloan Cottages, leaves a widow and grown-up family. [Scotsman 8 December 1919]

10 December 1919

Pit Accident near Bo'ness - By a fall from the roof of No. 2 pit, Grange, belonging to the Bridgeness Company (Ltd.), Bo'ness, Archibald Shanks, brusher, was yesterday morning killed instantaneously. He was aged about 43, and resided at Miller pit Cottages. Shanks leaves a widow and seven children. [Scotsman 11 December 1919]

Bo'ness Miner Killed - Archibald Shanks, brusher, was killed today in No 2 pit, Grangepans, belonging to the Bridgeness Company (Limited), Bo'ness, as the result of a fall from the roof. Shanks, who was about 43 years of age, leaves a widow and seven children who reside at Miller Pit Cottages. This is the same pit in which a serious explosion occurred some weeks ago, resulting in the death of four men. [Evening Times 10 December 1919]

25 January 1920

Fatal Accident in a Bo'ness Pit - Joseph Murray (69) haulageman, residing at Foundry Square, Grangepans, has died in the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, from the effects of serious injuries sustained in the main haulage road of No. 2 Pit, Bo'ness, belonging to Bridgeness Company (Limited.). [Scotsman 29 January 1920]

29 January 1920

Armadale Pit Accident – Two Men Killed – Five Injured – A serious accident is reported to have occurred at Westrigg Colliery, near Armadale. As the result of a heavy full from the roof, seven men were buried under the debris. When they were dug out, it was found that one of the men, John M'Garrity, Burnside Terrace, Blackridge, was dead. Three of the other men, George Sneddon, 2 Craig Terrace , Blackridge; James Watson, Woodside Terrace , Blackridge; and Peter Marshall, Entyfoot, Blackridge, who were severely injured, were removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, where Marshall subsequently died. The remaining three men, Thomas Marshall, 102 Westrigg; James Pease, Westrigg; and P Gribben, Harthill, who were less seriously injured, are being treated at their homes. [Scotsman 30 January 1920]

NB George Ratcliffe Sneddon died 24 March 1920

16 March 1920

Fatal Accident at a Bathgate Pit - In No. 1 Easton Pit (Messrs Baird & Co.) a young lad named Sweeney, a miner's drawer, was instantaneously killed by a fall from the roof. Sweeney was a discharged soldier, and had newly started work. He resided in North Street. Bathgate. [Scotsman 17 March 1920]

27 March 1920

Shale Miner Killed At West Calder - On Saturday a shale miner named James Torrance, residing at Livingstone, was killed in Westwood shale pit, belonging to the Scottish Oils (Ltd.). He was at work underground, when a stone fell from the roof of the workings and struck him on the back. [Scotsman 29 March 1920]

1 April 1920

Tranent Miner Killed - While returning from his work yesterday afternoon a Tranent miner named Archibald, a married man, was killed by being run down by a shunting engine.[Scotsman 2 April 1920]

1 April 1920

Pit Bottomer Killed at West Calder - A workman named Jeremiah Greenay, residing at Addiewell, and employed as a pit bottomer in Foulshiels pit, belonging to the United Collieries, lost his life as the result of an accident. He was engaged with a hutch when another one jammed him, and before he got clear the cage lifted, and he was killed on the spot. [Scotsman 5 April 1920]

11 June 1920

Musselburgh Miner Killed – William Ramsay, a miner, who resided at 60 Eskside Musselburgh, was instantaneously killed by having his head crushed by a stone while he was at work yesterday in Prestongrange Colliery. [Scotsman 12 June 1920]

18 June 1920

Fatal Accident In Bathgate Pit - Yesterday forenoon an accident occurred at Balbardie Pit Bathgate (Messrs Baird & Co.), whereby Colin Murray, 58 years of age, was instantaneously killed by the fall of a stone from the roof. He was engaged as a road inspector, and was in the act of making some repairs to the roof when the stone fell on his head. [Scotsman 19 June 1920]

9 August 1920

Fatal Mining Accident at West Calder - Hugh Stewart, miner, residing at Briech Terrace, lost his life in Woodmuir colliery, belonging to the United Collieries (Ltd.). He was at work when about a ton of material fell from the roof and buried him. Deceased was a married man, and leaves a widow and family. [Scotsman 13 August 1920]

6 September 1920

Two Fatal Accidents at Deans Oilworks - Two fatal accidents have taken place at the Deans Oil Works belonging to Scottish Oils (Limited.) A workman named James Crowe was altering a large cast-iron tower when he was crushed by a section of it weighing nearly two tons. Death was almost instantaneous. A young lad named William Callender was found dead in No. 5 Deans Mine, having been run over by a hutch. [Scotsman 10 September 1920]

24 September 1920

Grangepans Miner Killed - In No. 2 pit, belonging to Bridgeness Company (Ltd.), Bo'ness, Thomas Grant, a miner, had just commenced on the night shift in Blue Dook on Friday night, when a run of hutches broke away and killed him instantaneously. He resided at Ann Terrace, Grangepans, and leaves a widow and young child. [Scotsman 27 September 1920]

25 September 1920

Man Killed in Broxburn Mine - A fatal accident occurred on Saturday afternoon in Curledubs Mine, Broxburn, belonging to Scottish Oils (Limited.). Walter Gilbert, residing at Port Buchan, Broxburn, was at work as a drawer, when a large quantity of shale, estimated at several tons, fall from the roof and crushed him. The body was extricated after about three hours' work. Gilbert was an unmarried man of about 40 years. [Scotsman 27 September 1920]

Miner Killed At Broxburn - A fatal accident occurred last Saturday afternoon at Curledubs Mine, Broxburn, belonging to Scottish Oils (Limited). Walter Gilbert, residing at Port Buchan, Broxburn, was at work as a drawer when a large quantity of shale, estimated at several tons, fell from the roof and crushed him. The body was extricated after about 3 hours work. Gilbert was an unmarried man of about 40 years of age. [Dunfermline Journal 10 October 1920]

29 September 1920

Fatal Mining Accident at West Calder - A motorman named Patrick Lee; a married man, residing at Stoneyburn, lost his life by-an accident in Foulshiels Pit, Stoneyburn, belonging to the United Collieries (Ltd.). A fall had taken place in the workings, and Lee and several other workmen had been in the act of clearing it, when a second fall took place. Lee was killed on the spot, and another workman named Henry Dougan injured . Several other workmen had a narrow escape. [Scotsman 1 October 1920]