BELMONT COUNTY, Ohio – In a solemn gathering today, members of the community came together to pay tribute to the 72 men who tragically lost their lives in the Willow Grove Mine explosion on March 16, 1940.
The commemoration included the unveiling of a memorial stone and statue in Willow Grove, along with a historic bell that once belonged to the Sacred Hearts Church. It is believed that this bell tolled on the day of the devastating incident.
District 31 Vice President, Michael Payton, emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifice made by these men. He stated that the memorial serves as a reminder of the risks miners face daily to provide for their families and communities.
Reflecting on the impact of the explosion, third-generation coal miner Ray Wright highlighted the lasting effects it had on the community. He underscored the collective grief experienced by not just the families of the 72 victims, but also by the entire community affected by the tragedy.
The installation of the memorial in Willow Grove stands as a tribute to the fallen miners and a poignant symbol of the dangers inherent in the mining profession. The memorial serves as a beacon of remembrance and a call to never forget the sacrifices made by those who have dedicated their lives to this demanding work.
The ceremony honoring the victims of the Willow Grove Mine explosion is a testament to the resilience and unity of the community in the face of tragedy. As the bell once again rang out in memory of those lost souls, it echoed the unwavering spirit of solidarity among those gathered to pay their respects.