BELMONT COUNTY, Ohio – Seventy-two men were tragically killed in the Willow Grove Mine explosion on March 16, 1940, leaving a profound impact on the community that endures to this day.
Today, a memorial stone and statue stand in Willow Grove, serving as a poignant reminder of the lives lost and the families forever changed by the devastating incident. A bell, once belonging to the Sacred Hearts Church and said to have rung on the day of the explosion, now tolls solemnly in remembrance.
Michael Payton, District 31 Vice President, emphasized the importance of honoring the memory of those who perished, highlighting the sacrifices made by miners who risk their lives daily to provide for their families and communities. The memorial stands as a tribute to their resilience and commitment.
Ray Wright, a third-generation coal miner and contributor to the memorial, spoke of the lasting impact the explosion had on the community, extending far beyond the 72 lives lost. He stressed the collective suffering experienced by hundreds of families affected by the tragedy and the ongoing dangers faced by miners in their work.
The commemorative ceremony brought together community members to pay their respects and reflect on the sacrifices made by those working in the mines. As attendees shared stories of loved ones lost and lives forever changed, the significance of remembering the past to prevent future tragedies was underscored.
The memorial serves as a symbolic tribute to the resilience of miners and their families, reminding all who visit of the inherent risks associated with underground work. It stands as a testament to the strength of the community and the enduring memory of those who lost their lives in the Willow Grove Mine explosion, ensuring that their legacy lives on.