In January 1877, a massive mine fire erupted at the Short Mountain Colliery in Bear Gap, between Lykens and Wiconisco in northern Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. What began on New Year’s Day quickly became one of the most destructive industrial disasters in Coal Region history – earning front-page coverage in The New York Times and sending panic through communities built entirely on anthracite mining.
In this new YouTube video, I break down the origins of the Lykens Mine Fire, how it spread underground for miles, and the staggering effort required to extinguish it. At least 280 million gallons of water were pumped into and then back out of the mine. Operations shut down for more than a year. Hundreds of workers were left without steady employment during one of the worst economic depressions of the 19th century.
One thought on “Video | The Lykens Mine Fire of 1877: A Forgotten Coal Region Disaster”
Well done, Jake! I always listen and read closely for any mention of my great grandfather, Joseph R Workman, mine superintendent in that northern Dauphin County region.
Well done, Jake! I always listen and read closely for any mention of my great grandfather, Joseph R Workman, mine superintendent in that northern Dauphin County region.