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Naomi Mine Explosion
Fayette City, Pennsylvania

December 1, 1907
34 killed

Contents Posted November 6, 2007
This year marks the 100th year anniversary of the Naomi Mine Explosion, where 34 miners lost there lives.  27 miners are buried at the Fayette City Public Cemetery.

The Mount Auburn Cemetery Association would like to erect a monument intended to give respect to the miners that lost their lives and recognize the 100 year Anniversary of the Naomi Mine Explosion.

The monument will stand as a lasting tribute to each miner who made the ultimate sacrifice while mining coal.

You can help with this historic project by helping us fund the project:

Checks can be made payable to:

Mount Auburn Miners Memorial

Mail to:
Sherry Shondelmyer
300 Fell Street
Belle Vernon PA 15012


Accident Overview

About 7:45 p.m. Sunday, an explosion of firedamp augmented by coal dust resulted in the death of 34 miners, all that were in the mine. A large quantity of gas must have been ignited. The gas was not detected before anyone was allowed to enter the mine. For some time previous to the explosion, only the working places were being examined before the mine was allowed to be entered.

The cause of the gas being present was an open door. The explosion was caused by an open light or electric arc from the wires. The system of ventilation was fauty having too many doors.

They commenced to sink a shaft but very little progress has been made. It was evident that the fireboss had been trying to get the men together preparatory to leaving the mine.