We have yet to perform a thorough review of the history of the 1973 New Waterford mining disaster. However, the Number 12 colliery in New Waterford experienced an explosion in 1973, causing an underground fire. The mine was closed off in order to extinguish the fire, leaving two men trapped in the mine’s depths. The mine closed in 1973 after this tragic event, and was later transformed into a park in remembrance of all who have died in mining disasters.

You can see the memorial stones at the New Waterford park here.

Sources of information:
“The Shutdown,” protest song performed by Garry Leech
Labour’s Cultural Impact on the Community, by John O’Donnell (1986)

Tags: 1973 New Waterford