Lothians Accidents 1921-1930
17 January 1921
Fatal accident at Smeaton colliery - Henry Nelson, a miner employed at Smeaton colliery, near Dalkeith, was yesterday seriously injured by a fall of stone from the roof of the pit, and died when being removed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary . He resided at Dalkeith , and was formerly employed at Smeaton Gardens. [Scotsman 18 January 1921]
24 January 1921
Explosion In A Shale Mine Near Kirkliston - Five Men Injured - An explosion of gas occurred on Monday night in Ingleston pit (No. 36), near Kirkliston, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.), by which five men sustained serious injuries to the fate and upper parts of the body. The names of the men are:- George Frame (30), married, Kirkliston; Patrick Conway (41), married, Kirkliston; David M'Pherson (23), single, Newbridge; James Greenan (35), married, Westerton; Robert Sneddon (28), single, Westerton. All the men were conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Frame and Conway are the more serious cases, but it was learned yesterday that all were as well as could be expected. The men were employed in the safety lamp section of the pit, and at the time of the explosion were all wearing safety lamps. No definite information has been obtained as to the cause of the explosion. [Scotsman 26 January 1921]
23 April 1921
FALLING ROCK KILLS MINER. - DANGERS OF OUT-CROP COAL SEAMS. - A WARNING THAT WENT UNHEEDED. - Bathgate, Saturday - The dangers attached to the working of out-crop seams are emphasised by a distressing affair, involving the death of a young miner and serious injuries to his brother, which occurred in the Bathgate district early this morning. For several days many of the young miners have been reaping a rich harvest by working out-crop seams lying between Torpichen Road and the reservoir at Pallincrieff, and although repeatedly warned of the risks they were running persisted in the practice. What has been looked for by the more experienced of the miners happened this morning with startling suddenness. George Bingham, a young married man, who resided in Jarvey Street, went out to the seam, accompanied by a younger brother, between four and five o'clock, this morning, and while they were engaged working on the face of the old quarry, which lies about fifty yards from the Torpichen Road, a huge rock, weighing about two tons, broke away, both men being caught in the fall. Others engaged in similar operations rushed for assistance, and Dr Rossie was hurried to the scene, but by the time of his arrival George Bingham had succumbed to the injuries sustained, having lived only about three-quarters of an hour. His brother is suffering from a severely crushed foot. Both had been warned by their father on no account to go near the place, as the continual picking of coal from the seam was bound bring away the overhanging rook. [Sunday Post 24 April 1921]
20 July 1921
Colliery Fireman Overcome By Gas At Bo'ness - Samuel Forrester (27), fireman, while making an inspection in one of the workings of parrot coal in Furnaceyard Pit, Kinneil, Bo'ness, yesterday afternoon was suddenly overcome by gas, and fell down unconscious. Medical attention was given him but he died. He leaves a widow and two children. [Scotsman 21 July 1921]
29 August 1921
Father and Son Killed in Dalkeith Coal Outcrop Working - An accident occurred at Lawfield, Dalkeith, on Monday night, when, as the result of a heavy fall of earth and stones, James Gillon (60), pithead worker, and his thirteen-year-old son, James, were entombed in an old outcrop working, where they had been digging coal. The boy, it is presumed, was killed outright, but the voice of the father was heard calling for help for some time after the fall had taken place. A squad of miners from Whitehill and Newbattle laboured untiringly to effect a rescue, but, owing to the vast accumulation of earth and debris, the work was extremely difficult. The boy's body was the first recovered, but it was ' not till midday yesterday that the father's body was found, life being extinct. [Scotsman 31 August 1921]
6 September 1921
Man Killed at Dalkeith Colliery - Michael Smith (45), a brusher, residing. at Woodburn, was instantaneously killed last night by a fall of material from the roof of Dalkeith colliery. He only recently took up work in the pit after long service in the Army. [Scotsman 7 September 1921]
20 September 1921
Bathgate Miner Killed - Bathgate, Tuesday - A haulage accident occurred at Easton pit, near Bathgate to-day, resulting in the death of an elderly married man named John Kelly, residing at Whitburn Road, Bathgate. [Evening Times 20 September 1921]
Mining Fatality - A little after midday on Thursday, John Kelly (61), an oncostman in Easton Pit, was found lying at the side of the pit rails, dead. An examination of the body showed that he had a fractured right ankle, and a fractured skull. The theory set up is that his foot had been caught by a hutch, and in falling, his head had been struck by another hutch. Mr Kelly resided in Whitburn Road, Bathgate, and leaves a widow and grown-up family. [West Lothian Courier 23 September 1921]
14 October 1921
Dalkeith Miner Killed - James Goldie, a miner employed at Cauldhouse, was killed by a fall of material from the pit roof yesterday. Goldie was about 42 years of age, and leaves a widow and six of a family. He resided at Tait Street, Dalkeith. [Scotsman 15 October 1921]
5 December 1921
Smeaton Miner Killed - John Thompson, a miner employed at the Collieries at Smeaton , Dalkeith, was instantaneously killed yesterday by a fall of material from the pit roof. He was about 36 years of age. [Scotsman 6 December 1921]
3 February 1922
Shale Mine Explosion – Burning Injuries To Six Men - Six men, James Burns (oversman), George Black, Anthony M'Gowan, John Scott, jun.; John Sneddon (all oncostmen), and George Mitchell, miner, sustained burning injuries as the result of an explosion of gas in No. l shale mine, Philpstoun, yesterday. An accumulation of gas had been discovered by the firemen in the section in which Mitchell worked. The oversman and the oncostmen and Mitchell proceeded to clear the gas out of the place, and when in the act of erecting a brattice cloth, so as to divert a current of air into the place and clear the gas out, the explosion occurred. As safety lamps were used by the men, it is not clear how the gas came to be ignited but it is thought that the ignition may have been due to a spark from a pick used in putting up the timber required in the erection of the brattice cloth. The injuries of M'Gowan, Scott, and Mitchell were such that they had to be removed to the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh. [Scotsman 21 January 1922]
NB George Hall Mitchell died 3 February 1922
23 March 1922
Joiner killed at a Bo'ness Pit - Archibald Davie joiner, Bo'ness, aged about 60, met his death yesterday at Furnaceyard Pit, belonging to the Kinneil Coal Co. (Ltd.) He was assisting at the erection of additional coal screening plant, when his clothing was caught by an adjacent revolving shaft, and he was carried round for several revolutions before the machinery could be stopped. His skull was fractured, and death was instantaneous. Davie had been employed at the colliery for many years. He leaves a widow. [Scotsman 24 March 1922]
17 July 1922
Bathgate – Colliery Fatality – While at work in No 4 pit Bathgate, Christopher Connelly who resided at Paulville Rows, was pinned beneath a large stone which fell from the roof, and died of his injuries about half an hour after being removed home. [Hamilton Advertiser 22 July 1922]
7 August 1922
Fatal Mining Accident - Yesterday forenoon a miner named Robert Paton, residing at Breich Terrace, West Calder, was accidentally killed while at work through a fall of material from the roof. [Scotsman 8 August 1922]
8 August 1922
Miner Killed at Gorebridge - A miner named Andrew Hamilton, residing at Thomson's Place, Gorebridge, was killed yesterday afternoon by a fall of coal from the roof of the New Pit at Vogrie Collieries, belonging to Messrs Gavin Paul & Son. The deceased leaves a widow and four young children. [Scotsman 9 August 1922]
28 August 1922
West Calder – Shale Miner Fatally Injured - A shale miner, Frank Fee, residing at Dedridge, Mid Calder, was seriously injured on Monday night in Westwood shale pit at West Calder. He was at work when a quantity of material fell from the roof and crushed him. His left arm was fractured and he suffered from serious internal injuries. He was conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, but died the same night. [Hamilton Advertiser 2 September 1922]
27 October 1922
Miner Killed in Midlothian Pit - Peter Murray, (35),.miner, residing at 89 Back Street, Dalkeith, died yesterday from internal injuries received while at work in the Smeaton Collieries, Dalkeith. He leaves a widow and three children. [Scotsman 28 October 1922]
27 October 1922
Carberry Colliery Accident - A pithead worker named Dunn met with serious injuries to his head and face while on Carberry Colliery, pithead, Musselburgh, yesterday afternoon. He was looking down the shaft when the descending cage caught him. He was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 28 October 1922]
18 December 1922
Newcraighall Miner Killed - David Murray, miner, Second Avenue, Newcraighall, was instantaneously killed in Woolmet Pit, of the Niddrie and Benhar Coal Company, yesterday morning. He was struck on the head by the heavy pulley-block of a coal-cutting machine. He leaves a widow and two children. [Scotsman 19 December 1922]
20 December 1922
Explosion In A West Lothian Shale Miner – Two Men Killed - Considerable alarm was created yesterday morning by an explosion in the Deans shale mine, belonging to Scottish Oils (Limited.). The mine, situated only a short distance from the village of Deans, and when the news spread that an explosion had taken place, there was a period of anxious suspense in the village. Immediate steps were taken to save the lives of the men who were in the mine on the day shift. With promptitude the greater number of men were brought to the surface. A message was dispatched for the rescue brigade, and this revealed to the anxious group gathered near the mine that something serious had transpired underground. Two dead bodies were found in the workings. They were identified as John Maconochie -who filled the position of leading roadman, and who resided at 2 South Street, Livingstone - a married man with three children; and William Wilson - a mine fireman residing at 9 Dean Street Livingstone, who was engaged as a shale miner – also a married man, having nine of a family, all of whom are young. Another workman, William Morrison , residing at North Road, Livingstone, a shale miner, was found lying severely injured. He was taken to the surface, and his injuries attended to, and was afterwards removed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Both the manager, Mr James Trivney, and the under-manager, Mr Edward Towe, were in the mine, but both were rescued. The rescue party also came upon a number of men who were gassed, and these were conveyed to the pit bottom, and later brought to the surface. About 60 men were rescued, and of these about a dozen were gassed, but showed signs of recovery. The accident was due to an explosion of gas in the west side section of the mine. Gas explosions are not of frequent occurrence in the shale field, and this was one of the most serious that has been reported for several years. [Scotsman 21 December 1922]
27 March 1923
Armadale Miner's Leg Amputated - John O'Brien, machineman, residing at 185 West Main Street, Armadale, was admitted to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary yesterday morning suffering from injuries sustained in an accident at Woodend Colliery , where he was employed.. Both of his legs were badly mutilated, and the right one had to be amputated. His condition last night was stated to be critical. [Scotsman 28 March 1923]
7 June 1923
Under-Manager Killed in an East Lothian Pit - A fatal accident occurred yesterday, in the underground workings of the Preston Links Pit of the Edinburgh Collieries Co. (Ltd.), East Lothian. Mr John Lambie, one of the-under managers, was struck down by a fall of stone from the roof, and when extricated was dead. He, along with Mr Robert Halliday, manager, and Mr T. M'Leod, under-manager, had completed a tour of inspection when the affair occurred. His companions escaped. Mr Lambie was a married man, and resided at Cockenzie. [Scotsman 8 June 1923]
25 June 1923
Shale Miner Killed In West Calder Mine – Yesterday morning, a mining accident took place in No. 32 shale Mine, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.), at West Calder, when a young married man named Charles Kane, residing at West Calder, lost his life. Kane was at work when a quantity of material fell from the roof and killed him. He was well known in the district; and filled the position of treasurer to West Calder Junior Football Club. [Scotsman 26 June 1923]
22 August 1923
Foden Engine Overturns - Driver's Fatal Injuries. - Workmen were engaged yesterday in removing a Foden engine and waggon which had overturned at an embankment near Rosewell colliery on Tuesday. The steerer, George Macgregor, belonging to Liberton, had a leg broken while trying to get his engine past, a farm binder, the Foden swerving to the left and knocking down a telegraph post before it overturned. Macgregor was removed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary in the Whitehall colliery ambulance , where it was found that he was also seriously injured internally and he passed away in the Infirmary about six hours after being admitted. [Scotsman 23 August 1923]
3 December 1923
Miner Killed at Smeaton Colliery - George Shaw, an employee at the New Pit, Smeaton, Dalkeith, was instantaneously killed yesterday, the explosives which he was carrying having gone off. Shaw was 63 years of age, and, resided at Musselburgh. [Scotsman 4 December 1923]
7 December 1923
West Calder - Miner Killed - A miner named John MacLean (63) residing at Stoneyburn, was killed last week in Foulshiels Colliery, belonging to the United Collieries Ltd. He was overtaken by several runaway hutches and killed on the spot. MacLean was well known in football circles. [Hamilton Advertiser 15 December 1923]
11 December 1923
Miner Drops Dead at His Work - John Murray, a young miner, 21 Simon Square, Edinburgh, dropped dead at his work underground in Woolmet Colliery. Midlothian, on Monday night. [Scotsman 12 December 1923]
18 December 1923
Miner Fatally Injured - James Prior, a miner living at 7 Heriot Mount, Edinburgh, yesterday succumbed to injuries received earlier in the day, through the fall of a roof in Klondyke Pit, New Craighall, near Edinburgh. Prior was found to be dead upon the arrival, at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, of the ambulance conveying him. [Scotsman 19 December 1923]
25 December 1923
Miner Drops Dead At His Work - Daniel Shaw (45), brushing contractor,. was about to finish his afternoon shift in No. 2 coal pit, Grange, belonging to the Bridgeness Company (Limited), Bo'ness, when he dropped dead at his bench in the Bernard dook. A few minutes before the startling discovery was made a miner going down the dook spoke to Shaw in the passing, and there was then nothing to indicate that the end was so near. Death was certified to be due to heart failure. Deceased belonged to Lanarkshire. He went to Bo'ness three years ago. His widow lives at Helena Place, Grangepans. [Scotsman 26 December 1923]
9 January 1924
Pit-Sinker's Fatal Fall Down Shaft at Bo'ness -About midnight on Wednesday a fatal accident occurred at No. 3 Pit, Snab, belonging to Kinneil Cannel and Coking Company (Ltd.), who are engaged in developing works. Sinking operations are in progress at what was formerly an air shaft Michael Welsh, pit-sinker, was raised to the surface on a special errand, and, wishing to descend again he signalled to the engineman to lower him. He had not gone far, when the kettle broke loose and crashed to the pit bottom, a distance of 200 feet. Welsh was killed instantaneously. He was a native of Ireland and had gone from Coatbridge to Bo'ness just a day or two previously to start work. [Scotsman 11 January 1924]
2 February 1924
Fatal Accident in Shale Mine - On Friday, in No. 4 Deans Mine, near Bathgate, 70 tons of metal suddenly came away from the roof. Two shale drawers were covered by the falling mass, and one so severely injured that he succumbed in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary on Saturday. The young man who was fatally injured was John M'Donald (22), Livingston Station Cottages. It required four hours hard work before the debris was removed from his body. The other lad, who escaped with slight injuries, was William Pender (22), also residing at Livingston Station Cottages. [Scotsman 4 February 1924]
5 February 1924
Fatally Injured in Shale Mine - William Carr (16), chain runner, Blackburn, Bathgate, was yesterday fatally injured in Westwood State Mine. He was crushed by a runaway hutch and died immediately following the accident. [Scotsman 6 February 1924]
17 March 1924
Musselburgh Miner's Death – Joseph Boyle (28), a miner living at Campsie House Musselburgh, who was injured in an accident at Klondyke Pit, Newcraighall, has died in the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh. His skull was fractured in the accident and he received other injuries. [Scotsman 19 March 1924]
24 April 1924
Stoneyburn Miner Killed - At Foulshiels Pit, Whitburn, yesterday, Joseph Edgar (34), married, residing at Stoneyburn, while working at the coal face, was buried under a large stone and debris. His brother, who was working near, at once procured assistance, and the stone was removed, but Edgar was dead. Death was due to a broken spine. [Scotsman 25 April 1924]
19 May 1924
Fatal Accident at Fordel Mains Colliery - Walter Brown (63), belonging to Tranent, was knocked down by a coal hutch while engaged repairing the haulage roads on Monday at Fordel Mains colliery, Midlothian, and died about two hours after the accident. He received a fracture at the base of the skull. [Scotsman 21 May 1924]
24 June 1924
Shale Miner Killed - Yesterday morning a shale miner named James Struth lost his life by an accident in Deans Mine, Livingstone, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.) Struth had prepared a shot, and was in the act of getting into safety when the shot went off, and he was struck by the debris. He was so severely injured that he died soon after the accident. [Scotsman 25 June 1924]
7 July 1924
West Calder - Miner Killed - A miner named Thomas Laffy, residing at Kirkgate, West Calder, lost his life on Monday morning in West Mains Coal mine, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.). He was at work when a fall of material from the roof fractured the base of his skull. [Hamilton Advertiser 12 July 1924]
5 August 1924
Fatal Result of Accident - James Steele, an employee in the Smeaton colliery, Dalkeith, who was injured on Monday afternoon by coming in contact with a hutch, was removed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. He died in that institution yesterday afternoon. Steele was about 30 years of age, and resided in White's Close. East Dalkeith. [Scotsman 6 August 1924]
6 August 1924
Midlothian Pit Accident - Three Miners Killed – Buried By A Fall of Coal - A fall of coal took place yesterday afternoon in Carberry Old Pit, near Musselburgh , burying four men, three of whom were instantaneously killed, while the fourth was so seriously injured that he had to be removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary in an ambulance. The names of the killed are:-
William Purves , a middle-aged married man, with a family. He resided in King Street, Musselburgh .
John Morrison, 32 years of age, who resided in Rothesay Place, Musselburgh. He was a married man, with a family of two.
James Urquhart, an elderly married man, who resided in the village of Deantown , near Musselburgh . The injured man is John Shaw, between 30 and 40 years of age. He is married, and resides in Newbigging, Musselburgh. He is suffering from severe crushing of the body. The accident occurred shortly before the early shift was due to quit work, and the scene of the disaster was No. 11 Bench of the Jewel Seam. [Scotsman 7 August 1924]
3 September 1924
Fatal Accident in Broxburn Shale Mine - While engaged yesterday afternoon with another shale miner at "stooping" in Dunnet Mine , belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.), David Givan was struck on the head by a piece of shale which came away from the roof, and died in a few minutes. The other man had a narrow escape. Givan, who was 35 years of ago, and resided at 79 Stewartfield, Broxburn, leaves a wife and five young children. [Scotsman 4 September 1924]
8 September 1924
Musselburgh Miner Killed - John Williamson, miner, 63 Millhill, Musselburgh, fell down the shaft of Carberry pit near Musselburgh, and was instantaneously killed. The accident was unobserved , but it is supposed that Williamson had pushed a hutch into the open shaft under the impression that the cage was in position to receive it. [Scotsman 10 September 1924]
25 September 1924
Fatal Accident in Broxburn Mine - On Wednesday evening an unfortunate accident occurred in Dunnet Mine, Broxburn, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.), by which one man lost his life and another was severely injured. The two men - George Sibbald (25), married, residing at Shrine Place, Broxburn, and George Graham (29); married, residing at Port Buchan, Broxburn - were employed as mines roadsmen, and were proceeding along a level in Lamb's Brae section of the mine, for the purpose of doing some repairs, when a charged shot exploded about 20 feet from the spot where they happened to be walking. Both men were struck by flying pieces of shale, Sibbald receiving serious injuries to his neck and side, while Graham sustained a double compound fracture of the left leg. They were conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, where Sibbald died yesterday morning. [Scotsman 26 September 1924]
2 October 1924
Midlothian Pit Fatality - David Drylie, miner, 68 years of age, Chucker's Row, Wallyford, who was instantaneously killed by a fall of timber in Wallyford Pit, near Musselburgh, was in his younger days one of the most experienced anglers in the Musselburgh district, and was also a member of Musselburgh Town Band. [Scotsman 4 October 1924]
5 January 1925
Midlothian Pit Accident – 14 Men Injured – Cage-Winding Mishap - An accident, which might have been fraught with more serious consequences , occurred yesterday morning at the Klondyke pit, New Craighall, of the Niddrie and Benhar Coal Company (Ltd.), situated about two miles from Musselburgh. Fourteen minors were injured. By a winding accident, the descending cage, a two-deck structure of iron, loaded with fifteen men, dropped a distance of about thirty feet. A safety clutch device , which by the automatic cutting of a copper band, throws out lateral spikes operated effectively, and so prevented the up-going cage, also loaded with men, from being involved. The shaft is a perpendicular one of 140 fathoms.
The following were injured:—William Barnes, North Square, New Craighall; George Lowe, Musselburgh; and John Davidson, Whitehill Street, New Craighall, who had legs broken; Joseph Connolly North Square, New Craighall, who had both ankles dislocated; John Easton, Musselburgh; James Glen, Whitehill Street, New Craighall; John Kennedy, Musselburgh; James Mathers, Third Avenue, New Craighall; John Archibald, Third Avenue, New Craighall; Samuel Adams, Main Avenue, New Craighall; William Mitchell, Market Street, Musselburgh; John Dignan, Second Avenue, New Craighall; Andrew Rae, Second Avenue, Now Craighall; and Andrew Fairnie, Fisherrow, Musselburgh, who all suffered from bruises and shock. The cages were not wrecked, and the men, who had been thrown in a heap, were got out easily enough, but the pit shaft was not available to bring them to bank, and those who could not walk had to be carried to another shaft of the Niddrie Colliery group. Immediately the accident occurred the management summoned ambulances, and in these the injured were rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.
Parish Councillor's Escape - Two points of interest in the accident are that John Davidson, who, then in his teens, went off to serve in the Great War and lost a leg, now replaced by an artificial limb, had his sound limb broken; and the only man in the cage who escaped, and was able to walk home, was Parish Councillor George Sneddon, Third Avenue, New Craighall. Mr Sneddon is a Miners' Federation official, and a member for New Craighall district in Edinburgh Parish Council. In the early forenoon Mr John Masterton, H.M. Inspector of Mines, arrived at the pithead, and made a preliminary inquiry into the cause of the accident. He was conducted by Mr Gilbert Morrison, general manager of the Company.
At The Infirmary - At Edinburgh Royal Infirmary it was reported that the outcome of the accident had not been so serious as was first anticipated. The injured were immediately placed under X-ray examination, and the resulting photographs indicated that the majority of the injuries were connected with knee and thigh bones. The most serious case was a spinal injury. Four men whose injuries were of a minor nature were allowed home, and ten were detained. Last night it was reported that the injured men were all progressing as well as could be expected. [Scotsman 6 January 1925]
17 February 1925
Joiner's Death at Bathgate Colliery - While engaged at the cleaning plant at Riddochhill Colliery belonging to Messrs William Baird & Co. (Ltd.), coalmasters, early yesterday forenoon, Richard Yates (26), joiner, Paulville Rows, Bathgate, was caught by the shafting of the machinery, and the injuries he sustained were so severe that it is assumed death must have been instantaneous. [Scotsman 18 February 1925]
25 February 1925
Court of Session – Outer House (Before Lord Ashmore) – A Scots Marriage – Decree was granted declaring that Rosina Stocks or M’Lauchlan or Taylor, 19 High Street, Musselburgh, was married to Robert Taylor, who was killed in a pit accident in February of this year. The pursuer’s evidence showed that the parties took up house together in January 1915. Taylor gave her a ring, and they took one another as husband and wife. The neighbours regarded them as married people and she was known as Mrs Taylor. Before the birth of a child in June 1916 she spoke to him about getting married. He said they did not need a minister to marry them, as they were married according to Scots law. Counsel for the Pursuer - Mr J. Cameron. Agents – Gray, Muirhead, & Carmichael, S.S.C. [Scotsman 26 November 1925]
27 February 1925
Bo'ness Pit Explosion – One Death - James M'Cabe (67), Dock Street, Bo'ness, died at the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, on Saturday, from the effects of extensive burning injuries received in a recent explosion in Carriden Pit. The other man, James Moffat, is still in the Infirmary, and is progressing favourably. The men were about to fire a shot in the mine when the explosion occurred, from some cause not yet ascertained. [Scotsman 2 March 1925]
6 March 1925
Engineer Missing – Feared Fall Down Pit Shaft - While working, in the shaft of one of the collieries at Loanhead, owned by Shotts & Company (Ltd.), John Henrie (56), married, an engineer, belonging to Shotts, yesterday was installing a new steam pump, which had been found necessary owing to the recent flooding, when he disappeared. No trace of him could be found, although search parties were busy all day. It is believed he fell down the shaft, a distance of 600 feet. [Scotsman 7 March 1925]
3 April 1925
West Calder Pit Fatality – An unusual accident occurred at Loganlea Colliery yesterday morning; whereby Robert Laing, pitheadman, lost his life. It appears that Laing, who had been working in the fan-engine house, was killed as a result of the bursting of the flywheel of the fan-engine. The driving belt had broken, and he was on his way to stop the engine when the increased speed of the flywheel, caused it to burst.. The gable end of the engine house was blown out, and deceased was found about twenty yards away. in a mutilated condition. He was a married man. [The Scotsman 4 April 1925]
14 April 1925
Fatal Accident to Penicuik Boy - William Cairns, a boy residing at Shottstown, Penicuik, and employed at the pit bottom of Rosslyn Colliery, belonging to Shotts Iron Co. (Ltd.), was killed yesterday through a drop cage falling on top of him. He was severely crushed, and died almost at once. [Scotsman 15 April 1925]
2 May 1925
Mining Fatality at West Calder - A miner named Herbert Graham, residing at Oakbank Cottages, West Calder, was fatally injured in Westwood shale pit. A piece of shale fell from the roof and dislodged a wooden pillar, which struck Graham with great force, fracturing the base of his skull. He was conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, where he succumbed. [The Scotsman 5 May 1925]
23 June 1925
Prestonpans Miner Killed - Last evening John Muir, miner, who resided in High Street, Prestonpans, was killed by a fall of stone in the Links Pit, Prestonpans, owned by the Edinburgh Collieries Co, (Ltd.). Muir was married, and leaves a widow and one child. [The Scotsman 24 June 1925]
15 July 1925
Colliery Accident - On Wednesday afternoon, just before finishing time, a serious accident occurred in Foulshiels Colliery, which resulted in Adam Tierney, a married man residing in Johnstone Terrace, being taken to the Infirmary suffering from internal injuries. While a work, a large stone fell from the roof and pinned Tierney to the pavement. Assistance was speedily on the scene and while assisting their work mate a second fall took place. This time however, it was of a smaller nature and the rescuers, Robert Currie, Thos. Kane, and J. Gibbie sustained cuts on the head. On arrival at the surface, the latter three were able to walk home after being attended to by Dr Sword. Tierney, on being examined was found to be suffering from internal injuries, and was removed to the infirmary in the ambulance wagon, where he is progressing as favourably as can be expected. Dr Sword was ably assisted in his work by some members of the ambulance team. [West Lothian Courier 24 July 1925]
NB Adam Tierney died 2 August 1925. Many thanks to Bryan Tierney for kindly providing this information.
21 December 1925
A Pithead Hero - The heroic conduct of a pithead labourer in attempting to save the life of a fellow worker at the sacrifice of his own led a jury at Haddington yesterday to express appreciation of his noble efforts. The deceased, Robert Moodie, residing at 16 Kirk Street, Prestonpans, was, along with James Peden and others, engaged on 21st December last in emptying hutches at Prestonlinks Colliery at a burning refuse bing. The base of the bing is washed by the sea tides, and this, along with the stormy weather, caused its foundations to collapse. Peden was thrown over the top among the burning ashes. Moodie, although he was in complete safety, gallantly proceeded to his rescue, and was also severely burned, latterly falling into the sea. Both men were removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, where Moodie subsequently died. Mr E H. Fraser, H.M. Inspector of Mines, strongly commended the gallant action of Moodie, whose death, he said, was entirely due to his attempt to rescue Peden. Although he did not succeed in reaching Peden, yet it was a noble sacrifice, and he thanked the jury for recognising this. Sheriff Jameson also commented upon the deceased's gallantry. Mr Fraser intimated that he would bring the matter before the trustees of the Carnegie Hero Fund, so that Moodie's action might be fittingly recognised. [Scotsman 9 March 1926]
19 March 1926
Midlothian Miner Killed - John Luke (23), miner, residing in Wallyford, was instantaneously killed yesterday afternoon by being crushed between a hutch and the roof of the underground workings at Carberry Colliery, near Musselburgh. [Scotsman 20 March 1926]
10 April 1926
Bathgate Pit Fatality - While engaged working at the face in Riddochhill Colliery, belonging to Wm. Baird & Co. (Ltd.), on Saturday, George Morrison, miner, Westend, Blackburn, West Lothian, was caught under a fall from the roof and killed. Deceased, who was 51 years of age, leaves a widow and a family of nine, most of whom are grown up. [Scotsman 12 April 1926]
15 April 1926
Bathgate Pit Accident Proves Fatal - Wm. Crawford, miner, Cochrane Street, Bathgate, succumbed in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary yesterday to injuries received the previous day in Easton pit, Bathgate, belonging to Wm. Baird & Co. (Ltd.). He was struck on the head by a stone which fell from the roof, and sustained a severe scalp wound, and also suffered from shock. Crawford , who was 34 years of age, leaves a widow and young family. [Scotsman 17 April 1926]
1 May 1926
Linlithgow Mining Fatality - Henry Burns (63), mine oversman, residing at Burnside Cottages , Linlithgow, was knocked down by the carriage of the main haulage in No. 6 Mine, Whitequarries, belonging to Scottish Oils, and sustained a compound fracture to the right leg and dislocation of the left hip. He was conveyed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, where he died on Saturday forenoon. [Scotsman 3 May 1926]
26 November 1926
Shale Pit Explosion – West Lothian Accident – One Miner Killed - Yesterday forenoon a state of excitement prevailed in the mining district of Philpstoun near Linlithgow, when it became known that an explosion had occurred in one of the shale mines, No, 6 Whitequarries, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.) The mine is one in which about 100 men are employed, but only one section of the mine was, happily, involved.
The accident, which was of an alarming nature, happened just as the men were about to take their forenoon snack, or, in mining phraseology, at "corning" time. The shift started work shortly before seven o'clock. At this time William Duff was the man in charge of the section and had control of what are called the “proppers.” These men were William Duff, residing in Linlithgow; Edward Henderson, Linlithgow; George Archibald, Bridgend Rows; Alex, Paterson, Bridgend; Thomas Gilcannon, Bridgend; Michael Hall, Linlithgow Bridge.
Force of Explosion - Work proceeded as usual until about half-past ten o'clock, when the men “knocked off” for their snack. Duff was at this time engaged in his working place bringing down shale. A loud explosion was heard, and the noise passed alon- the roads and lyes connected with the mine. The force of the explosion blew the men off their feet, and hutches standing in the lye were displaced and overturned. The men suffered more or less from the damp and smoke, which affected their eyes, but in a staggering condition they managed to grope their way to the haulage road or air-course. While there was a deal of dust and debris about , no fall could be seen on any of the roads. The man Hall went to the bottom of the mine, and gave the alarm to the officials on the top. Mr Robert Crichton, director of mines for the Scottish Oils, and Mr Caldwell , mining manager , were quickly on the scene.
Search For Missing Man - Some of the men, after being brought to the surface, and having recovered from the effects of the explosion , returned to assist in the search for Duff, who, it was noted, was missing. They found his jacket and waistcoat hanging in his working place, but no trace of himself. The men below left off work soon after the explosion and the back shift did not start.
When the accident occurred, rescue parties from Bathgate and Coatbridge were promptly in attendance together with ambulance waggons. An anxious search continued a long time for the missing man without avail. The prevailing theory was that he had, after the explosion, wandered into a “waste” or disused part of the section, and had been buried in the debris. It was not until nearly five o'clock that the searchers discovered the lifeless body of Duff, which was found near his own working place. Duff, who was a married man and resided in Linlithgow, leaves a widow and ten of a family. [Scotsman 27 November 1926]
3 December 1926
Bo'ness Man Seriously Injured - George Robertson (72), miner, in the employment of Kinneil Coal Company (Ltd.), Bo'ness, was yesterday knocked down by a runaway hutch in the north dook of Furnaceyard Pit, and sustained a fracture of the skull, and fracture also of the right leg. In a critical condition, the unfortunate man was taken by ambulance to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, where he was operated upon. The operation was stated at a late hour last night to have been successful, but Robertson's condition was then very critical. Robertson is a widower, and resides at 30 North Street Bo'ness. [Scotsman 2 December 1926]
17 December 1926
George Easton, a brusher employed by the Niddrie and Benhar Coal Company (Ltd.), was killed yesterday while engaged in the underground workings of the Woolmet Colliery, Millerhill. He was 50 years of age and married. Easton resided at Jewel Cottages, Niddrie. [Scotsman 18 December 1926]
15 January 1927
Mining Fatality at West Calder - A miner named John M'Burnie, a married man, who resided at Mid-Calder, was seriously injured by a fall of material from the roof of the workings in Westwood Shale Mine, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.). He was conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, and died shortly after admission. [Scotsman 17 January 1927]
Mid Calder Shale Mine Fatality -John M'Burnie, miner, Mid Calder, was seriously injured by a fall of material in the workings of Westwood shale mine, belonging to Scottish Oils Ltd, West Calder. He was conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, but died shortly after admission. [Hamilton Advertiser 22 January 1927]
25 January 1927
Fatal Accident In Carberry Colliery – James King, an unmarried miner, residing at Deantown, near Musselburgh, received such injuries by being crushed by a rake of coal hutches in Carberry Colliery that he died later in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 26 January 1927]
8 February 1927
Pit Explosion – Bo'ness Men Injured – The Cause a Mystery - An explosion, the cause of which is shrouded in mystery, occurred at a late hour on Tuesday night in the Carriden Coal Company's pit to the rear of Bo'ness dock. Four miners were burned, one so severely that his condition-last night was reported to be very serious. The names of the injured are:-
James Henderson (single), William Street, Bo'ness, shock and extensive burns to body and neck;
Charles Moreland Bell (single), Parkview, Grangepans, burns to face and arms;
David Dick (married), Cowdenhill, Bo'ness, severe burns to face and shock;
Robert Lowrie (married), Miller Pit Cottages, Bo ness, severe burns to face,and arms, and shock.
The men were taken to the pithead, and two doctors, who were early on the ground applied emergency dressing and anti-shock treatment. With all speed they were taken by ambulance to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.
Safety Precautions - The explosion occurred in the six-foot section, which, it is stated, had been carefully inspected before the men went on night shift at 10 o'clock, and the working place declared free of gas. The pit is known as a "closed" pit, and only electric lamps are used. Lowrie and Henderson are miners, and, Dick and Bell machinemen. Under the supervision of Dugald Anderson, shot-firer, Lowrie, stemmed a hole preparatory to firing a shot. The men were duly warned off, including machinemen, and the four men fell back into what was believed to be a place of safety. The shot was fired as usual by means of electric batteries, and Anderson. detected nothing amiss. Neither he nor workers in adjoining sections heard anything to suggest that a distinct explosion had occurred in any section, and everyone in the vicinity of the pit were taken by surprise when the cry went up that four men had been burned. What happened to cause those injuries is a matter conjecture and must be left for elucidation by H.M. Inspector of Mines, who yesterday conducted an official inspection in the section. The result of the examination is not known.
The men were considerably scorched about the face and arms and about the body. Henderson appeared to have suffered most. Two years ago a similar burning accident occurred in the same pit and one of the victims died from the effects of his injuries. [Scotsman 10 February 1927]
The Carriden Pit Explosion - David Dick (27), one of the four men severely burned in the recent explosion in Carriden Pit, Bo'ness, died from the effects of his injuries in the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, yesterday morning. Deceased was married, and leaves a widow and two young children, who live at Cowdenhill. The family removed from Airth to Bo'ness several years ago. The cause of the explosion still remains a mystery. [Scotsman 15 February 1927]
The Carriden Pit Explosion – A Second Death - James Henderson (19), miner, living with his parents at William Street, has died in the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, from the effects of burning injuries sustained in the recent explosion in the pit of Carriden Coal Company, Bo'ness. Four men were involved, and Henderson's is the second death from the occurrence. [Scotsman 22 February 1927]
27 February 1927
Tranent Miner Killed - A fatal accident occurred yesterday morning at No. 1 pit of the Fleets Colliery, belonging to the Edinburgh Collieries Company (Limited), situated near Tranent. While engaged in repair work inside the pit shaft, George Russell, oncost-worker, overbalanced and fell to the bottom of the shaft. He was instantaneously killed. A married man, Russell resided at 156 Church Street, Tranent and leaves a widow and three children. [Scotsman 28 February 1927]
14 March 1927
Father Sees Son Killed – Bo'ness Pit Tragedy - Thomas Duncan (23), brusher, who resided with his parents at East Castleloan, near Bo'ness, was yesterday morning fatally crushed by a boulder which fell from the roof of Furnaceyard Pit, belonging to Kinneil Coal Company (Ltd.). His father, John Duncan, who was walking close behind his son at the time, escaped unhurt, but two other miners, Robert M'Pherson and John M'Kenna, were hit by loose stones and rubbish, forming part of the fall, sustaining cuts to the head and bruises to the body. John Duncan is a contractor, and his son and M'Pherson were in his employment. The men were on night shift doing repair work in the rise six feet seam of the Furnaceyard Pit. At 4 a.m., having completed certain repairs, Duncan and his men were proceeding to another part of the road when, without any warning, a heavy fall occurred from the roof. Tom Duncan, the leading man was pinned to the pavement by a stone weighing from four to five cwts. The father, although terribly shocked, bore up bravely and assisted in extricating the unfortunate man, who died almost immediately. [Scotsman 15 March 1927]
21 March 1927
Musselburgh Miner Killed - James M'Watt (26), married, a hutch drawer in Carberry Colliery, who resided at 66 Rothesay Place, Musselburgh, was instantaneously killed by a fall of stones in the underground workings of that pit. [Scotsman 22 March 1927]
5 May 1927
Bo'ness Miner Killed - Buried under a heavy fall from the roof, Richard Bell (39), Old School, Grangepans, was killed in Carriden Mine, near Bo'ness, yesterday morning. As nightshift foreman , part of his duty was to attend to the pump underground. It is not known what precisely happened, as Bell was alone, but it is surmised that ho was repairing the blast pipes, when several tons of blaes fell. Two hours later the dayshift foreman, Walter Stanners, assisted by a few miners, made a search, and found the mangled body of Bell under the fall. Deceased leaves a widow and seven young children. [Scotsman 6 May 1927]
1 June 1927
Fatality At A Midlothian Pit - While drawing props in Lingerwood pit, Newbattle, yesterday, Harry Melrose, a brusher, was crushed by a fall of stone from the coal workings. Death was instantaneous. Melrose was 29 years of age, and resided at 31 Fifth Street, Newtongrange. [Scotsman 2 June 1927]
1 July 1927
Fatality at Newbattle Collieries – William Docherty, 17, residing at Abbey Land, Newtongrange, was killed by a breakaway of coal hutches in the splint seams of Newbattle Collieries on Saturday. [Scotsman 4 July 1927]
8 July 1927
Sequel to Lothian Pit Fatality - A sequel to a fatal accident at the Prestonlinks Colliery, belonging to the Edinburgh Collieries Company, was heard at Haddington Sheriff Court yesterday, when John Halliday, colliery manager, Cockenzie; Robert Murie, foreman engineer, 5 Oswald Terrace, Prestonpans; and Lewis Potter, surface foreman, 60 Oswald Terrace, Prestonpans, were charged with having on Friday, 8th July, neglected to keep securely fenced dangerous parts of machinery - viz., two sprocket wheels, used for driving the dross conveyer, whereby, as alleged. Thomas J. Mackie, pithead worker, came in contact with one of the wheels, and was killed. The accused all pleaded not guilty, and their trial was fixed for Thursday, 12th January. [Scotsman 8 December 1927]
8 July 1927
Shale Miner Killed at West Calder - Yesterday morning a shale miner, George Ferme, residing at Mossend, West Calder, lost his life by an accident in Westwood Shale Pit, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.). He had fired a shot, and, on hearing it go off, he went back to his working place to fire the second one he had prepared, when it went off unexpectedly. He was so severely injured that he died shortly after the accident. The deceased was a married man, and had only recently started work in Westwood Pit. [Scotsman 9 July 1927]
3 August 1927
Newcraighall Miner's Death – As a result of an accident on April 14 last in a Newcraighall pit, a miner, named James Lindsay, who resided at 4 Parkview, Newcraighall, died yesterday morning in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Lindsay's skull was fractured. [Scotsman 4 August 1927]
8 August 1927
Fatality at a Newbattle Pit - A fireman named Nicol Peacock was making a first "safety of the mine" inspection in the underground workings of the Lady Victoria Colliery. Newbattle, yesterday, when he met his death. He had, it is stated, been using a naked light, which caused gas to ignite. He was found dead some time afterwards, death being due to an explosion. He was 35 years of age, and resided at Gothenburg Buildings, Dalkeith. [Scotsman 9 August 1927]
6 November 1927
Fatal Accident in Shale Mine - While engaged with several other men carrying out repairs in No. 4 Mine, Deans, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.) Thomas M'Vicar, Mid Street, Livingstone Station Rows Bathgate, was killed by a fall of shale and debris. So great was the fall that nearly four hours elapsed before the body was recovered. Several other workers had narrow escapes. Deceased leaves a widow and family. [Scotsman 8 November 1927]
6 December 1927
Bathgate Miner Dies From Injuries - Charles Savage, miner, 69 Durhamtown, Bathgate, has died in the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary from injuries received in an accident which occurred, in the Riddochhill Colliery. Savage was struck by material following the firing of a shot in his working place. He sustained a fractured skull. The deceased leaves a widow and three children. [Scotsman 8 December 1927]
14 January 1928
Shale Miner Killed At West Calder – A shale miner named Hugh Haddow, who resided at Dedridge, Midcalder, lost his life on Saturday morning in Westwood Pit, belonging to Scottish Oils Limited. He was at work at what is known as the waste when a quantity of the material fell upon him, death being instantaneous. Deceased was unmarried. [Scotsman 16 January 1928]
4 February 1928
Fatality In Bathgate Pit - A chain runner, James Strachan (16 1/2), son of Thomas Strachan, miner, Paulville Rows, Bathgate, was fatally injured as the result of an accident which occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning in Easton Pit, Bathgate, owned by Wm. Baird & Co. (Ltd.) The lad had been walking alongside a rake of hutches when, it is surmised, the tow-rope fouled a crossing, causing a rail to spring up and strike him on the head. Death was instantaneous. [Scotsman 6 February 1928]
14 February 1928
Samuel Wilson, a colliery under manager, was killed yesterday morning by a fall of roof in Loganlea Pit, West Calder, Fife (sic) [The Times 15 February 1928]
20 March 1928
Shale Mine Fatality – The death occurred in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary yesterday of James Kay, a young shale miner, who lived at Cardross Cottage, Binnybridge , Uphall. Kay was severely burned about the head and upper parts of the body as a result of a gas explosion in Newliston Shale Mine on Monday afternoon. [Scotsman 21 March 1928]
31 March 1928
Pit Fatality at Bonnyrigg - Alexander Brown (31), pit brusher, was instantaneously killed on Saturday in Polton pit, Bonnyrigg, by a fall of stones from the roof of the workings. He resided at West Lodge, Melville, Lasswade, and leaves a wife and three children. [Scotsman 2 April 1928]
21 June 1928
Bo'ness Miner Killed - James Gourlay (33) miner, 103 North Street, Bo'ness, was yesterday morning instantaneously killed in the Furnaceyard Pit, belonging to Kinneil Coal Co. (Ltd.). Gourlay who worked with his brother-in-law, David Smith, had not long been down the pit when a heavy stone fell from the roof, hit him on the head, and fractured his skull. Smith had a lucky escape. Gourlay had only recently recently recovered from the effects of an accident in No. 2 Pit,Bridgeness, now closed down. He leaves a widow and two young children. [Scotsman 22 June 1928]
6 July 1928
Shale Mine Explosion – Fatality At Bathgate - As the result of an explosion which occurred yesterday in No. 4 Deans Shale Mine, Seafield, Bathgate, owned by the Scottish Oils (Ltd.), two men were injured and one killed. It appears that Wm. Ellis, Glen Road, Livingston Station, had fired a shot, immediately following which a quantity of gas in the waste became ignited, causing a horrific explosion, the noise of which was heard fully a mile away. Ellis and two other miners - Bernard M'Court, Starlaw Rows, Bathgate, and Thomas Campbell, Main Street, Livingston Station, were hurled a considerable distance. M'Court sustained a fractured skull, and was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary where he died almost immediately afterwards. Ellis and Campbell were more fortunate. They suffered much from shock and bruises, while they were literally "peppered" with shale dust which penetrated the skin. After receiving medical attention they were removed to their homes. The detonation created a momentary feeling of alarm among the other workers engaged in the mine, but fortunately none of them suffered any ill effects. [Scotsman 7 July 1928]
9 July 1928
Bo'ness Miner Killed - Thomas Duffy (28), bencher, was yesterday killed in the main coal section of the Furnaceyard Pit of Kinneil Collieries. An empty hutch swept down a steep incline, and Duffy was knocked down and terribly injured. Death was instantaneous. Two workmates narrowly escaped. Deceased was unmarried , and lived at Castleloan. [Scotsman 10 July 1928]
31 July 1928
Accident At Newbattle Pit - Two workmen received injury in Lingerwood Colliery, Newbattle, yesterday, as the result of a rake of coal hutches running backwards from the top of the incline and dashing down upon them. James Morton, an oversman, residing at Easthouses, had one of his legs fractured, and John Jenkins, oncostman, belonging to Newtongrange, had both legs broken. They were removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 1 August 1928]
14 August 1928
Mining Accident at West Calder - Yesterday morning a young man named Robert Brown, residing at Seafield, Livingston , was severely injured in Breich Shale Pit, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd,), by a rake of runaway hutches. One of his legs was fractured and the other severely crushed. He was conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 15 August 1928]
2 September 1928
Mining Fatality at West Calder - A young man named John Murphy, who resided at The Cottage, Woodmuir, West Calder, was seriously injured in Woodmuir Colliery by a fall from the roof. It took several of the workmen to remove the large stone which fell upon him. After receiving medial attention, he was conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, but he succumbed to his injuries. [Scotsman 4 September 1928]
27 September 1928
Two Miners Killed – Carberry Pit Accident - A fall of about 15 tons of stone in No. 5 pit, Carberry, belonging to the Edinburgh Colliery Company, fatally crushed two Musselburgh district miners yesterday. The victims of the accident were John Storrie, 355 Forth View, Wallyford, who leaves a widow and grown-up family; and Alexander Stewart, 11 Mitchell Street, Musselburgh, who leaves a widow and family of seven , all the children being under 14 years. It took some time to extricate the men, and when this was done life in both cases was found to be extinct. [Scotsman 28 September 1928]
7 October 1928
Newtongrange Miner Killed – As a result of a blow from an iron prop, which sprung in the workings in Lingerwood Colliery, William Watson was so seriously injured that he expired in about two hours. Watson was 50 years of age, and resided at 54 North Street, Newtongrange. [Scotsman 8 October 1928]
9 November 1928
Bonnyrigg Miner Fatally Injured – The death occurred yesterday of Thomas Brock, a mineworker, who resided at Sherwood Cottages, Bonnyrigg . He had been engaged in Polton Pit in one of the underground sections when a quantity of stone from the roof fell upon him. Deceased was about 60 years of age. [Scotsman 10 November 1928]
10 December 1928
Bathgate Man Electrocuted - A fatal accident occurred yesterday morning, at Riddochhill Colliery, Bathgate, belonging to Wm. Baird &.Co. (Ltd.) coalmaster, a young electrician, Robert Strang (25), High Street, Bathgate, being electrocuted. It appears that while executing repairs in the power station, he had inadvertently come into contact with a high tension conductor carrying about 3000 volts, and was killed instantaneously. Strang was married at the end of June last. [Scotsman 11 December 1928]
12 January 1929
Shale Mine Explosion – Four Men Injured - By an explosion of gas in No, 35 Pit, near Winchburgh, on Saturday, three shale miners and a fireman were more or less seriously injured two of them being removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for treatment.
The names of the injured are:-
Samuel M'Ghie , Church Street, Broxburn;
George Paris, Niddry Rows, Winchburgh;
James Jack, Uphall; and
Thomas Bell, Three-mile-town, Philpstoun.
The explosion occurred in a place being worked by Paris and M'Ghie, while Jack was working in a place adjoining. Bell, who is a fireman was a short distance away when the explosion took place. The cause of the explosion has yet to be determined. Paris and Bell were badly burned about the face and body, and their condition was such that their removal to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary was considered advisable. Jack received slighter burns, while M'Ghie was cut about the face and head by falling shale. [Scotsman 14 January 1929]
(According to the Mines Inspectors report two of the men subsequently died. One was Charles Hodge Paris age 33, who died January 15 1929, the other is as yet unidentified)
15 January 1929
Fatality At Woolmet Pit - While repairs were being carried out yesterday on the colliery workings of Woolmet pit, belonging to the Niddrie and Benhar Coal Company, (Limited), a hutch ran back and seriously injured two of the workmen. William Rochdikes and Daniel M'Donald. The former succumbed to his injuries shortly afterwards. M'Donald, who has been admitted to Edinburgh Royal infirmary, was last night reported to be doing as well as could be expected. Both men belong to Edinburgh. [Scotsman 16 January 1929]
15 January 1929
Whitburn Pit Fatality - A young lad named David Dunlop (15), who resided at East Benhar Rows, Fauldhouse, sustained fatal injuries yesterday in No. 1 pit, Cultrig Colliery, near Whitburn, belonging to Barr & Thornton (Ltd.). He was employed as a clipper, and was found in the main haulage road under a rake of full hutches by which, it is thought, he was run down. [Scotsman 16 January 1929]
23 January 1929
Newtongrange Engine-Keeper Killed - James Main, while attending an engine pump at Lingerwood Colliery, was struck by the piston and received internal injuries. He died in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary yesterday. Deceased, who belonged to Elphinstone, resided at 22 Tenth Street, Newtongrange, and leaves a widow and a family of two. [Scotsman 24 January 1929]
25 January 1929
Miner Killed at Woolmet - James Leithnoy, a mine brusher, was yesterday fatally injured by a fall of stone from the roof of the underground workings of Woolmet colliery, Millerhill, Midlothian. He was taken to the rescue station with all speed, but life was found to be extinct. Deceased was about 50 years of age, and unmarried. He belonged to Edinburgh. [Scotsman 26 January 1929]
16 February 1929
Loganlea Mining Accident - Martin Fitzgerald, a young married man, residing at Lighton Terrace, Bents, Stoneyburn, was seriously injured at Loganlea Colliery, belonging to United Collieries (Ltd.), on Saturday. Fitzgerald was engaged oiling machinery when he was caught, and dragged into the machine. Both his legs were broken, and he sustained severe internal injuries. He was conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary in a critical condition. Fitzgerald is well known in running circles as "F. Cassels, Edinburgh.'' [Scotsman 18 February 1929]
[NB Martin Fitzgerald died 16 February 1929]
22 February 1929
Pit Cage Accident – Injured Man Succumbs – The death occurred on Saturday morning of Thomas Kane, miner, Castleloan, Bo'ness, one of the twelve occupants of the ill-fated cage which was struck the previous afternoon by a block of ice in the shaft of Furnaceyard Pit, belonging to Lochgelly Coal Co. (Ltd.) This made a second victim, the other being Thomas Waddell, who stood alongside Kane in one of the division, and who died on reaching the pithead. It is surmised that the ice block fell from midshaft, which means about 100 fathoms, before landing on the hood of the cage which yielded six inches under the blow. Three men were knocked down, Waddell, Kane, and James Baillie. Waddell fared worst of all, and lay helpless at the feet of his comrades. Kane showed wonderful pluck, as, although obviously suffering much, he insisted on walking to his home a quarter of a. mile distant. His skull was fractured, and soon after reaching home he lost consciousness and succumbed the following morning at 5.30. He leaves a widow and two children. Baillie escaped unhurt. [Scotsman 25 February 1929]
Haywood - Tragic Death - A deep gloom was cast over the district when the sad news was spread abroad of the tragic death of Thomas Waddell, who was born and resided in Haywood until recently. He had his skull fractured by a piece of ice while ascending the shaft of Furnace Yard Pit at Bo'ness. Deceased was of a kind and lovable disposition, quite temperament, always ready to assist any local charity by lending his talent for the benefit of others. Possessed of a rich tenor voice, he was a big asset to the various church choirs that sought his aid. The poignancy of the sudden call is the more acutely felt, inasmuch as he and Mrs Waddell had every arrangement made for being present at the reunion of natives next Friday evening. The deepest sympathy is felt for his widow and children, and his aged mother, now well beyond the three score and ten years. [Hamilton Advertiser 9 March 1929]
1 March 1929
Heroic Miner – How 50 Men Were Saved – Tranent Pit Accident - A brave act by a Tranent mineworker was brought to the notice of East Lothian Education Authority yesterday in a letter from Mr Andrew Clarke, M.P., who called attention to the heroic deed with the object of the Authority bringing it before the Kilmarnock Hero Fund Trust.
Mr Clarke stated that the person concerned was a young man named George Johnstone, 35 Haddington Road, Tranent, who was at work with his neighbour in the Fleets Pit, belonging to the Edinburgh Collieries Company, on Friday, 1st March. Their place was approaching an old working, and about midday there was a sudden burst of water, which came with great force, and this was almost immediately followed by a heavy volume of black damp. Both men could have escaped, though up to the waist in water, but young Johnstone, knowing that there were about 50 men working about three-quarters of a mile from the pit bottom, and who, unless they were warned, would be caught like rats in a trap, decided to go and do this, despite the fact that his mate told him that he also, as well as the men, would be lost. He set out on his mission and on reaching the men found that none of them was aware of what had happened.
Old Roadway Blocked - By this time it was impossible for them to reach the pit bottom on account of the water and damp, and on the suggestion of a young lad of 16 years of age, who remembered having seen an old road that, if open, would take them to a higher seam, they set out, only to find, however, that the roadway was blocked by a fall of roof. Several other old roads were explored, but no passage through could be got. After many disappointments they, by accident, discovered a hole, which, by working in relays, they managed to make large enough to enable them to be pulled through by several other workmen who had gone to look for them. After being in peril for five hours the men were all got safely out, to the great joy of their relatives and friends, who had been waiting anxiously at the pithead.
A Natural Impulse- Johnstone, when spoken to about the brave act he performed, modestly stated that he simply could not have tried to save himself, knowing that so many men's lives were in danger. He therefore simply obeyed what seemed to him a natural impulse - to try to save them, or at least take his chance together with them. The Authority unanimously commended the brave action of Johnstone, and it was resolved to ask the chairman, Dr Duncan R. Macdonald, Dunbar, to take whatever action was necessary to bring the deed under the notice of the Carnegie [Scotsman 22 March 1929]
Mines Prosecution - Interesting Haddington Case - Evidence was led at considerable length in Haddington Sheriff Court yesterday in a mines prosecution in which three officials wore charged, The accused were Gilbert Rowan, Gled Albert Llewyellyn Brayne, both agents for the Edinburgh Colliery Company; and David Livingstone, mines under-manager, 4 Lammermoor Terrace, Tranent. The charge was that between 1st December 1928 and 1st March 1929 they failed to make adequate examination of the disused workings in the Fleets Pit in driving a cross measure drift, by neglecting to construct bore holes in a place likely to contain an accumulation of water, or, alternatively, failed to have bore holes kept in advance and in flank of the working which was approaching the disused portion of the pit.
The evidence was of a technical nature, one of the points for the defence being that an influential Departmental Committee had carefully considered and criticised Section 68 of the Mines Act, and had found in some cases that it was inadequate in its provisions to ensure safety in the mine.
Sheriff Jamieson found Livingstone not guilty, and Rowan and Brayne guilty of technical offences.
His Lordship held that, as a matter of fact, any responsibility had ceased altogether for a long time before the mishap which occurred took place and which fortunately resulted in no loss of life. In the circumstances, therefore, he would dismiss them. Notice was given on behalf of the Crown and the defence for a stated case for appeal. [Scotsman 29 October 1929]
12 April 1929
East Lothian Pithead Fatality - Charles Baillie (40), waggon trimmer, 138 High Street, Prestonpans, who was severely crushed between two loaded waggons while working at the Prestonlinks pithead, died on admission to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary from the effects of his injuries. [Scotsman 16 April 1929]
30 May 1929
Musselburgh Pithead fatality - Hugh M'Kenzie, a pithead worker, unmarried, who resided in Wallyford, was instantaneously killed while at work drawing hutches of rubbish off the cage at Wallyford Colliery, Musselburgh. Winding manipulation to adjust the cage to surface level was proceeding, when the shaft protection gate, which had been hoisted, descended and struck M'Kenzie on the neck. [Scotsman 31 May 1929]
13 June 1929
Thomas Calder (60), pit joiner, residing at Fauldhouse, came by a serious misadventure while engaged at a circular saw at Braehead Colliery, Fauldhouse, owned by Barr & Thornton, coalmasters. Calder was guiding a log of wood ; when it sprung back, striking him on the right side of the head. He sustained a fracture to his skull, and lost his right eye. After receiving medical attention locally, he was conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 12 June 1929]
31 July 1929
Bathgate Pit Fatality - A young miner, William Rennex (17), son of William Rennex, 15 Barbauchlaw Avenue, Armadale , succumbed in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary yesterday to injuries received the previous day in Easton pit, Bathgate, belonging to Wm. Baird & Co. (Ltd.) While working at the face he was caught by a fall from the roof, and sustained a compound fracture of the left leg below the knee. After he was removed to the Infirmary it was found necessary to amputate the leg, but despite the operation his injuries proved fatal. [Scotsman 1 August 1929]
1 August 1929
Prestonpans Pit Explosion - John Byrne (19), one of the five miners who were injured a fortnight ago by an explosion of gas at Prestonlinks Colliery, Prestonpans, has died in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. This is the second death which has resulted from the accident, John Morton (26) having died in the Royal Infirmary from his injuries over a week ago. [Scotsman 16 August 1929]
Light Which Cost Lives - Echo of Pit Fatalities – Danger of Smoking - A double pit fatality, caused by an explosion of fire-damp which followed immediately after a young miner's drawer struck a match to light a cigarette, in Prestonlinks Colliery, Prestonpans, formed the subject of an inquiry before Sheriff Jameson and a jury at Haddington yesterday.
The deceased men were John Morton, miner, residing at 92 Polwarth Terrace, and John Bryne, miner, residing .at 70 Summerlee Street, both of Prestonpans, who died in the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary from burns caused by the explosion, which occurred on 1st August.
The mine manager stated that the workings of the pit where the accident occurred extended for two miles under the sea, and it was impossible, therefore, to have air shafts for ventilation. Safety lamps were required in this portion of the workings, and notices were exhibited warning miners not to use lights, matches, cigarettes, &c.
In consequence of gas being found in the workings six months previous to the accident, airways were made. These were not high enough for a man to walk in, but one could travel in them. They were not usable at the time of the accident, due to falls of the roof. The men were systematically searched by the fireman and one or two assistants.
Asked for a reason for the explosion, he stated that they had come to the conclusion that some of the men must have struck a match, as there was no other way of the gas having become ignited. There was a possibility of someone having concealed a match for the purpose of having a smoke. There had been a lot of trouble with the men taking matches into the pit, and it was a big change for those who had not been used to so strict regulations.
The fireman stated that the miners were warned not to strike any matches. He knew that smoking was being carried on secretly, as he had smelt cigarette smoke definitely every night, but he could never detect the offenders. He conveyed his suspicions to the under manager. Witness had searched the men's coats when their were at work, but had found no matches nor cigarettes. He observed a smell of gas in the mine the day before the accident .
Robert Valentine, an elderly miner, stated that the explosion occurred at the time they were at tea. William Storrie (17), a miner's drawer, struck a match to light a "fag," and the explosion immediately followed. There was a huge sheet of flame, and another explosion, and witness was thrown on his face. The match which was struck lighted the gas before Storrie could light his cigarette . He noticed the presence of gas in the pit on the day before, and this was so bad that it affected his breathing.
James M. Harkness, a young miner, also testified to the presence of gas in the pit on the previous day, and how it had caused him dizziness. The last witness. Wm. Storrie (17), miner's drawer, was so deaf that it was found impossible in examine him, and he retired from the box.
A doctor's certificate was read, showing that Morton died on the 4th August and Bryne on the 14th August in the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, the cause of their deaths being severe burns caused by an explosion of fire-damp, followed by pneumonia . The jury returned a formal verdict. An agent for the relatives suggested that the jury should add a rider to their verdict that the airways of the mine were defective, and that there had been a failure to report the presence of gas. The jury, however, did not adopt this suggestion.[Scotsman 22 October 1929]
7 August 1929
Killed In Pit – West Lothian Miner's Death - Pinned underneath a stone weighing nearly two tons which fell from the roof of a working place in the No. 5 Whitrigg colliery, East Whitburn, Patrick Kelly (37). West Main Street, Whitburn, was killed instantaneously. Working alone, Kelly was engaged clearing away coal when the fall occurred. Despite the strenuous efforts of seven men, nearly an hour elapsed before the body could be extricated. Examination by a doctor disclosed the fact that Kelly's neck had been broken, his skull fractured, and a leg broken. [Scotsman 10 August 1929]
9 August 1929
Late on Thursday night, Patrick Connelly (50), miner Bathgate Road, Blackburn, West Lothian, was knocked down and run over by a runaway rake of empty hutches in the same colliery [Whitrigg]. His right leg was fractured in three places, and after receiving medical attention he was removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 10 August 1929]
11 August 1929
East Lothian Pit Accident - Peter H. M'Gregor (31), 35 Park Road, Tranent, has died in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary from injuries sustained when knocked down by empty waggons at the Edinburgh Collieries Company pit, near Tranent. [Scotsman 17 August 1929]
22 August 1929
Newtongrange Miner Killed - At the Lady Victoria Colliery, yesterday afternoon, William Burns, a young man, 27 Fifth Street Newtongrange, was killed by a fall from the roof, Alexander Russell, who was working beside Burns, was badly injured, and was removed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 23 August 1929]
12 September 1929
Shale Mining Fatality - John Wynn, The Cottages, Pumpherston, Midcalder , lost his life yesterday in an accident in the Westwood shale pit, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.) He was in the act of firing a shot when the gunpowder ignited, and he was seriously injured by the explosion. He succumbed to his injuries while being conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Mr Wynn was well known in. the district, and took a prominent part in local-affairs, being treasurer of the Pumpherston Workmen's Institute and a member of the committee of the West Calder Co-operative Society. He was a well-known Midlothian bowler. A married man, he leaves a wife and family. [Scotsman 13 September 1929]
2 November 1929
Fatal Result of An Accident - While trying with several other workmen to set right again a waggon, which stuck at the points at the Burghlee colliery of the Shotts Coal Co. (Ltd.), Walter Stewart was severely injured on Saturday afternoon. He was removed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, where death subsequently took place. Stewart, who was 30 years of age, resided at 23 Drum Cottages, Gilmerton. [Scotsman 5 November 1929]
15 December 1929
Bo'ness Pit Fatality - Edward Skelding (40), coal machineman, was last evening killed in Furnaceyard pit, belonging to the Kinneil Coal Co., Bo'ness. Skelding was cutting coal when a stone weighing several cwts. fell upon his shoulders and pinned him to the pavement . He asked his workmate to lift the stone off his back, but before this could be done Skelding had died from a fractured spine. Deceased, who belonged to Cowdenbeath, leaves a widow and two children. [Scotsman 16 December 1929]
24 December 1929
Bo'ness Pit Fatality - Christmas Eve in Grangepans, Bo'ness, was marred by a distressing fatality in the New pit belonging to Carriden Coal Company. (Ltd.) , in which the victim was George Mulholland (50), who lived at Man o' War Street, Grangepans. While working at the coal face a large fall from the roof caused his head to come into violent contact with a hutch rail, resulting in terrible injuries. Deceased leaves a wife and two children. [Scotsman 26 December 1929]
14 January 1930
Killed and Injured – Two men in Easthouses Pit Accident – A fall of material from the roof of one of the workings of Easthouses Colliery occurred yesterday, by which Thomas M’Que was killed, and James Murphy was very seriously injured. One or two other miners also suffered from the accident, though their injuries are not serious. M’Que was 45 years of age, and resided at Montieth’s Close, High Street, Dalkeith. He leaves a widow and a son aged 4 years. Murphy, after receiving medical attention, was removed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 15 January 1930]
27 January 1930
Midlothian Miner Killed – A miner named Hugh Hollerin, residing at Dewarton, near Gorebridge, met his death while at work in Oxenford No 2 Mine, belonging to the Ormiston Coal Company (Ltd), Ormiston. Hollerin was to have been married today. [Scotsman 29 January 1930] With thanks to Ann Menzies for providing information on this death
12 February 1930
Miner Killed At Stoneyburn - A miner named Robert Strickland, who resided at Muir Terrace, Stoneyburn, lost his life by an accident in Loganlea Colliery, belonging to the United Collieries (Ltd.) He was struck by a race of hutches and killed on the spot. Deceased had worked in the colliery for about 30 years. [Scotsman 14 February 1930]
14 February 1930
Musselburgh Miner Killed - A fall of coal in the workings of Carberry Colliery, Musselburgh, yesterday morning, involved four miners, three of whom escaped with slight injuries, but the fourth, James Denholm, Cowpits Musselburgh, was crushed to death. Denholm, who had served throughout the war, leaves a widow and several young children. [Scotsman 15 February 1930]
14 March 1930
Dalkeith Miner Killed - Robert Benn (45), who lodged in Roberton's Close, Dalkeith, died yesterday in the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary from injuries he received in Woolmet Colliery. Benn was a widower, and belonged to East Lothian, but for the last five years had been living in Dalkeith. [Scotsman 15 March 1930]
17 March 1930
Peril and Heroism in Bo'ness Pit – A Narrow Escape - Twelve workers ran a narrow escape in a section of the Carriden Coal Co.'s pit at Bo'ness when they were caught by a sudden inundation. All but one, after being swept along and buffeted by the torrent, reached a place of safety. The exception was Wm. Kerr, the man who gave the alarm, but a rescue party was quickly organised, and Kerr was brought out, suffering from a fractured arm and severe body bruises. [Scotsman 18 March 1930]
Bo'ness Pit Flooding - Carriden Coal Company's pit to the rear of Bo'ness Dock, and which was the scene of an alarming invasion of water the previous afternoon, was yesterday idle. Mr John Masterton, mine inspector, Edinburgh, conducted an inspection of the workings in an effort to trace the cause of the flooding of one of the sections. William Kerr, the injured man, was reported to be progressing favourably. [Scotsman 19 March 1930]
29 March 1930
Explosion In Newbattle Pit - By a slight explosion of gas which occurred in the Lady Victoria pit of the Lothian Coal Company , Newbattle, on Saturday, two miners, James Hay, 57, Lingerwood Road, Newtongrange and James Melrose, Masterton, Easthouses, sustained burns. After being medically treated, they were conveyed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 31 March 1930]
18 April 1930
Accident Ends Fatally - An accident to a platelayer at Kinneil Colliery, Bo'ness, on Friday afternoon, has proved fatal, the victim, William Rollett, 62 Castleloan, Bo'ness, having died in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Rollett, along with other workmen, had been assisting to restore a light engine on to the rails again, when the engine slipped and pinned down one of his legs. [Scotsman 21 April 1930]
26 April 1930
Niddrie Miner Killed - Nisbet Middleton (43), miner, lodging in Pipe Street, Portobello, was instantaneously killed by a fall of coal in the underground workings of Woolmet Colliery of the Niddrie & Benhar Coal Company (Ltd.), on Saturday. [Scotsman 28 April 1930]
10 June 1930
Miner Killed At Work - Frank Gibson, a married man, residing in North High Street, Musselburgh, was killed at his work as a miner in Woolmet Pit of the Niddrie and Benhar Coal Company, Ltd. [Scotsman 13 June 1930]
24 June 1930
East Calder Man's Death - The death has taken place in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary of Henry Meikle, who resided at East Calder. Meikle was injured while at work in a shale mine at Deans, belonging to Scottish Oils (Ltd.) He was a married man , and leaves a widow and six children. [Scotsman 26 June 1930]
July 1930
Gilmerton Pit Accident - James Williams (28), 50 Drum Street, Gilmerton, fell a distance of 20 feet at the Gilmerton colliery and sustained concussion and injuries to his back. He was conveyed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 10 July 1930]
7 August 1930
Fatality In Bathgate Pit - In the Easton pit, Bathgate, owned by William Baird & Co. (Ltd.), Robert Thomson (37), unmarried, who resided with his father, John Thomson, Cochrane Street, Bathgate, and who was employed as a chain runner, was yesterday struck by a runaway empty hutch, as a result of which his neck was dislocated. He succumbed to his injuries a few minutes later. [Scotsman 8 August 1930]
15 August 1930
Miner Killed By A “Fall” - Thomas Davis (49), a brusher, who resided at 83 Jewel Cottages, Portobello, was killed while at work in Woolmet Colliery yesterday. Davis was crushed beneath a fall of stone from the roof. [Scotsman 16 August 1930]
2 September 1930
Three Men Injured - Midlothian Pit Accident – Haulage Rope Breaks - An alarming accident, involving 64 men, occurred in the Klondyke Pit, Newcraighall, of the Niddrie and Benhar Coal Company (Ltd.) yesterday afternoon, as the early shift was being withdrawn from work. Only three of the men were so severely injured that they had to be detained in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary to which they were conveyed. Three others removed to the Infirmary were not detained. Those seriously injured were:- George Young, Hercus Loan, Musselburgh (broken leg); James Hamilton, Main Avenue, New Craighall (fractured jaw bone and internal injuries.); Robert Brown, 104 High Street, Musselburgh (shock and injury to left knee.) The 64 men were being convoyed in a series of man-haulage bogies up the Sea Dook incline when the haulage rope broke, and the rake of bogies ran back over 60 feet till stopped by the chocks. Three of the bogies were piled up when they were derailed. As rapidly as possible the injured men were brought to the pit bottom and taken up to the surface. Two trips were made to the infirmary with the injured by the colliery ambulance waggon, and one trip by a St Andrews Ambulance Association waggon. As is usual in such circumstances, exaggerated reports of the affair reached Musselburgh, where much alarm was felt, as most of the men resided in the town. [Scotsman 3 September 1930]
15 October 1930
Crushed By A Fall - While employed on the night shift, between Tuesday night and yesterday morning, in No. 5 shale mine, Deans, Bathgate, owned by Pumpherston Oil Company (Ltd.) John Kemmet (34), miner, who resided with his widowed mother at Harlaw, Bathgate, was crushed beneath a fall from the roof of his working-place. When extricated it was found that he had sustained severe injuries to his back, and it is feared that his spine may have been injured. He was removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. [Scotsman 16 October 1930]
3 November 1930
Fell Down A Pit Shaft. - Falling a distance of about 250 fathoms to the pit bottom at Polkemmet Colliery, Whitburn, owned by Wm. Dixon (Ltd.), yesterday, Robert Glasgow (55), pit sinker, West Main Street, Whitburn, was killed. It is supposed that in attempting to step on to a beam near the fan drift he slipped and fell down the shaft. He is survived by a widow. [Scotsman 4 November 1930]