The Cross Mountain Mine Disaster occurred on December 9, 1911, in Briceville, Tennessee. It was one of the deadliest coal mining disasters in the United States, claiming the lives of 84 miners.
The mine was owned and operated by the Tennessee Coal, Iron, and Railroad Company, a subsidiary of U.S. Steel. When a massive explosion occurred, the miners were working in a section of the mine where coal dust had accumulated unchecked for years. The force of the blast was so powerful that it caused the mountain to move and collapse, trapping the miners inside.
Rescue teams were sent in to try and save the miners, but the conditions were extremely hazardous and dangerous. The fire had spread, and the air was filled with toxic smoke and fumes, making it difficult to breathe. After two days of trying to save the miners, the rescue team only found five men alive.
The Cross Mountain Mine disaster was one of the worst mining disasters in U.S. history. The incident highlighted the dangers of coal mining and the need for increased safety measures. It also brought attention to the need for better labor laws and improved working conditions for miners.
References:
http://www.interment.net/data/mines/cross-mountain-mine-disaster.htm
https://usminedisasters.miningquiz.com/saxsewell/cross_mountain.htm
