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Today in History: Senghenydd mining disaster claims 440 lives

10/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On 14 October 1913, the Senghenydd colliery disaster struck the Universal Colliery in Senghenydd, Wales, resulting in the deaths of 439 coal miners and a rescuer. This catastrophic explosion, fueled by firedamp, remains the deadliest mining accident in the United Kingdom's history, highlighting the dangers of coal mining during that era.

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Story summary

On 14 October 1913, the Senghenydd colliery disaster struck the Universal Colliery in Senghenydd, Wales, resulting in the deaths of 439 coal miners and a rescuer. This catastrophic explosion, fueled by firedamp, remains the deadliest mining accident in the United Kingdom's history, highlighting the dangers of coal mining during that era.