On November 13, 1909, a fire broke out at the Cherry Mine in northern Illinois. Of the 450 miners working underground, 259 men and boys succumbed to flames and smoke. The labor force was predominantly composed of immigrant workers. As with most industrial accidents, the Cherry Mine disaster was avoidable. The calamity inspired public outrage, resulting in a new workman’s compensation law and stronger mine safety regulations.

On November 14-15, the Village of Cherry will commemorate the disaster and the miners. A full weekend of ceremonies is planned, free and open to the public. Featured speakers and performers include UMWA Vice President Steve Earl, and singer and labor historian, Bucky Halker. Walking tours of the cemetery and mine site will also be conducted.

Here’s a download link to a PDF flyer for the event.

Here’s a short video on the disaster:

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