Belmont County, Ohio – On March 16, 1940, a tragic event unfolded in the Willow Grove Mine, claiming the lives of 72 men. Today, a memorial service was held to remember these individuals and to show support to the families impacted by the devastating loss.
In a solemn tribute to the fallen miners, a commemorative stone and statue were unveiled in Willow Grove in March 2020. Alongside these structures, a bell from the Sacred Hearts Church, which rang on the day of the explosion, now stands as a symbol of remembrance for the lives lost.
District 31 Vice President Michael Payton expressed the significance of honoring the memory of the miners, emphasizing the importance of never forgetting the tragedy that took place. He highlighted the sacrifices made by miners to provide for their families and communities, shedding light on the risks they face daily.
Ray Wright, a third-generation coal miner and a contributor to the memorial, reflected on the lasting impact of the explosion on the community over the years. He underscored the profound suffering experienced by the families of the victims, emphasizing that the tragedy extended beyond the 72 lives lost to affect hundreds in the community.
The memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers miners encounter in their daily work underground. It stands as a testament to the resilience of the community and the need to honor the memory of those who perished in the Willow Grove Mine explosion. Through events like these, the community comes together to pay tribute to the fallen miners and to ensure that their legacy lives on.