1917 Coal Mine Explosion
Historical marker location:
Clay, Kentucky
( Clay Town Hall, Clay, KY)
1917 Coal Mine Explosion - On Aug. 4, 1917 about 7:40 AM an explosion in the West Kentucky Coal Company’s #7 mine shattered the community of Clay. The worst mine disaster in state history was caused by methane gas and an opened-flame headlamp. At the time of the explosion miners were on strike, protesting low wages and dangerous working conditions.
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1917 Coal Mine Explosion - Many miners killed were African Americans from the South, employed as strike breakers. Poor record keeping & body condition impaired identification of many of the miners. 153 men were underground. 62 men died. 29 of 47 men identified were buried in unmarked graves in nearby Rock Springs. The #7 mine was located 1.5 miles northwest of Clay.
Dedicated October 4, 2019
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During the Civil War, Kentucky was officially neutral, but the state was divided in its loyalties, with many citizens fighting on both sides of the conflict.
About Webster County
Webster County Timeline
Webster County, Kentucky has a rich and storied history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was originally home to several Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Cherokee, until European settlers arrived in the late 18th century. In 1806, the county was officially established and named after Daniel Webster, a prominent American statesman and orator.
During the early years of its history, Webster County was primarily a rural and agricultural community. The fertile soil and abundant natural resources attracted settlers from all over, leading to the establishment of numerous farming communities throughout the county. The agricultural industry thrived, with tobacco, corn, and wheat as the main crops. The county also had timber reserves, which were used for building and trade.
In the mid-19th century, the construction of railroads played a significant role in the development of Webster County. The first railroad arrived in the late 1850s, linking the county to other major cities and facilitating transportation of goods. This led to an increase in industrialization, with coal mining becoming a major economic driver in the county. The mining industry boomed, bringing economic prosperity to the area and attracting a diverse workforce.
Webster County faced its fair share of challenges as well. The county was deeply affected by the Civil War, with local conflicts and troop movements impacting the community. After the war, the region faced a period of post-war reconstruction but managed to rebuild and adapt to the changing times. In the 20th century, the county continued its reliance on agriculture and coal mining, while also diversifying its economy with the establishment of manufacturing industries.
Today, Webster County remains a lively and vibrant community in Kentucky. The area combines its agricultural heritage with modern industries, offering a blend of quaint rural charm and economic opportunities for its residents. The county takes pride in its history, and many historic sites, museums, and events celebrate the rich heritage and contributions of the people who shaped Webster County over the years.
During the early years of its history, Webster County was primarily a rural and agricultural community. The fertile soil and abundant natural resources attracted settlers from all over, leading to the establishment of numerous farming communities throughout the county. The agricultural industry thrived, with tobacco, corn, and wheat as the main crops. The county also had timber reserves, which were used for building and trade.
In the mid-19th century, the construction of railroads played a significant role in the development of Webster County. The first railroad arrived in the late 1850s, linking the county to other major cities and facilitating transportation of goods. This led to an increase in industrialization, with coal mining becoming a major economic driver in the county. The mining industry boomed, bringing economic prosperity to the area and attracting a diverse workforce.
Webster County faced its fair share of challenges as well. The county was deeply affected by the Civil War, with local conflicts and troop movements impacting the community. After the war, the region faced a period of post-war reconstruction but managed to rebuild and adapt to the changing times. In the 20th century, the county continued its reliance on agriculture and coal mining, while also diversifying its economy with the establishment of manufacturing industries.
Today, Webster County remains a lively and vibrant community in Kentucky. The area combines its agricultural heritage with modern industries, offering a blend of quaint rural charm and economic opportunities for its residents. The county takes pride in its history, and many historic sites, museums, and events celebrate the rich heritage and contributions of the people who shaped Webster County over the years.
Webster County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Webster County, Kentucky.
- 1806: Webster County was established by the Kentucky General Assembly.
- 1807: The county was named after Daniel Webster, an American statesman and politician.
- 1829: The community of Dixon was incorporated.
- 1833: The first courthouse was built in Dixon.
- 1861-1865: Webster County residents served in the American Civil War.
- 1885: The current Webster County Courthouse was constructed.
- 1937: The Dixon tornado struck, causing significant damage to the area.
- 1974: The county celebrated its sesquicentennial.
- 1983: The Webster County Coal Corporation opened a coal mine in Providence.
- 2004: The county celebrated its bicentennial.
- 2010: The population of Webster County was 13,621.
- 2019: Webster County celebrated its 213th anniversary.