New Search

Return to Search Results

Full Details

Surname
SPENCER
Forename
William
Day
05
Month
11
Year
1959
Age
34
Occupation
Miner
Mine/Quarry Name
Harp Bottom
Mineral Worked
Coal
Owner
Greenwood & Metcalfe's
Location
Clayton
County
Yorkshire WR
Details of Event
On Wednesday forenoon, a miner was buried alive by a large quantity of earth and rubbish falling from the roof of the mine. Most of the workmen became so alarmed at the accident that they made their escape as speedily as possible. At length one of them suggested the probability of getting him out alive. They then proceeded to the spot, and after an hour's labour, succeeded in extricating the poor fellow. He was still alive, but so badly injured that his life is despaired of. We understand that Spencer is a near relative to those unfortunate young men who lost their lives in the Shackton coal mines, and had removed with his family, three weeks ago, into the cottage which they had formerly occupied. (On Wednesday evening, an inquest was held at the Gin Pit Inn, Swillhill, on the body of Wm. Spencer, aged 34. Deceased was employed at Messrs. Greenwood and Metcalfe's pit, at and on the 1st November, five months ago, he had the misfortune to have his back broken by a quantity of material falling upon it from the roof of the pit. He had lingered in much pain from the 1st inst. A verdict of accidental death was returned. (Halifax Courier 17/04/1960)