A PIT disaster which claimed the lives of more than 140 men and boys from all across the borough will be remembered at a commemorative event which will mark its 150th anniversary.
On December 6, 1875, an underground explosion at the Swaithe Main Colliery led to the deaths of 143 people - some as young as 13 - devastating their families and the community.
According to records, the fatalities involved people from Darfield, Wombwell, Jump, Platts Common, Blacker Hill, Measbrough Dyke, Stairfoot, Worsbrough Common, Hoyland, Worsbrough Dale, Hoyle Mill, Swaithe and the town centre.
It’s regarded as the most disastrous mining incident in Barnsley since the Oaks Colliery disaster claimed 361 lives in 1866.
In honour of those who lost their lives, a commemorative event will take place in Worsbrough on November 29 at St Thomas’ Church to mark the tragedy’s anniversary.
The event has been organised by the Worsbrough Library Heritage Group and local councillor Jake Lodge.
It will involve a memorial service, historical displays and opportunities for families to share information with researchers.
Organisers are aiming to bring together residents, historians and the descendants of those affected by the tragedy, ensuring the stories of the victims will live on.
A statement said: “The Swaithe Main Pit Disaster shaped the lives of hundreds of families across Worsbrough and beyond.
“As we approach the 150th anniversary, we want to ensure those voices are remembered - not just as names on a lis, but as people whose stories still matter today.”
There were some 300 men and boys employed but on the particular Monday, a large number were not at work.
About 240 people went down the pit at the usual time, although there was no signs that it was likely to fire.
When the incident occurred at about 9.40am, those on the pit bank heard a loud bang and noted a rush of gas up the shaft, with rescue attempts lasting for more than 48 hours thereafter.
Coun Lodge added: “This was a mining disaster that impacted the entirety of Barnsley and beyond.
“The list of lives lost showed that those who died were based right across the town and it’s important that their work and lives are remembered.
“The event’s planning is well underway and we’re keen to hear as many stories as possible.
“This tragic event occurred 150 years ago but it’s a hugely important part of Barnsley’s history and we’re keen to remember the lives that were lost there.”
* Organisers are now appealing for public help in marking this milestone. Residents are encouraged to share their stories, documents and photos with Coun Lodge, who can be contacted at cllrjakelodge@barnsley.gov.uk.
