Memorial Service Honors 72 Men Who Died in the Willow Grove Mine Explosion
On March 16, 1940, 72 men lost their lives during the Willow Grove Mine explosion in Belmont County. And last Saturday, Ohio AFL-CIO President Tim Burga joined United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) President Cecil Roberts, current and retired mine workers and members of the local community to honor the fallen as well as the families that were affected by this tragic event.
In March 2020, a memorial stone and statue were installed in Willow Grove, as well as a bell that previously belonged to the Sacred Hearts Church. Michael Payton, District 31 Vice President, says that the memorial is all about honoring the men who died, and it’s important to never forget what happened. “We know the risks but the reward to provide and take care of your family and provide for your community, that’s something that we’re really proud of that we can do.”
The UMWA created a video about the dedicated workers who go into the mines (view it here) and to remind us all that when a loss of life occurs on the job, it affects entire generations. “If you kissed your husband goodbye that day or you told daddy ‘I’ll see you later’, or if your mom called you and you didn’t come back – all those people suffered. It wasn’t just 72 people; it was hundreds of people that suffered in this tragic loss,” said Ray Wright, 3rd generation coalminer and contributor to the memorial.
President Roberts spoke from the heart about the loss of life at Willow Grove Mine, now 84 years ago, and as he so effectively does brought those in attendance together as one for prayer, strength and healing.
President Burga remarked, “On this solemn day we recommit the labor movement to organize and fight for the fundamental right of every worker to a safe job until that promise if fulfilled. As a grandson of a coal miner from Belmont County I carry with me memorials like Willow Grove as a daily reminder for the need to organize worksites, fight for safety and to hold to account the companies and elected officials that have an obligation to protect our most valuable resource, our people.”