Stephen
This was presumably the major disaster at the Prince
of Wales Pit, Abercarn on 11 September 1878,
when 268 lives were lost. It was the worst disaster in Wales
up to that time. The rescue efforts were hampered by gas
and fire. It was owned at the time by the Ebbw Vale Steel,
Iron & Coal Co. Ltd. but obviously went out of use for some
years after this. There was later working under other owners
the last coal being wound in 1936, although the site continued
in use for pumping and other purposes after this.
There will be plenty of information in the press of the time.
See also "Collieries of Western Gwent" by J. Cornwell (1983)
Being where you are I am sure you can easily look these up!
Russell Wear
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