Description
Book Synopsis: A historic mine fire traps hundreds of men underground in a gripping work of narrative nonfiction meticulously researched and told by a master of the genre. It is November 13, 1909, and the coal miners of Cherry, Illinois, head to work with lunch pails in hand, just like any other day. By seven a.m., 484 of these men are underground, starting jobs that range from taking care of the mules that haul coal to operating cages that raise and lower workers and coal to chiseling out rocks and coal from the tunnels of the mine. With the electrical system broken, they’re guided by kerosene torches—and come early afternoon, a slow-moving disaster begins, barely catching the men’s attention until it’s too late. In what starts as an hour-by-hour account, Sally Walker tells the riveting and horrifying story of the Cherry Mine fire, which trapped hundreds of men underground. Alternating between rescue efforts above and the heroic measures of those trying to survive the poor air and entrapment below, the tragic story unfolds over eight excruciating days in a narrative compelled by the miners’ hope and absolute will to survive. Rich with archival photographs and documents, this stirring account includes sources, bibliography, an author’s note, and follow-up information about survivors, rescuers, and families.
Details
Discover the captivating tale of courage, sacrifice, and resilience in Underground Fire: Hope, Sacrifice, and Courage in the Cherry Mine Disaster. Immerse yourself in the gripping world of narrative nonfiction as you delve into the meticulously researched and masterfully told story of the historic mine fire that trapped hundreds of brave men underground. With lunch pails in hand, the coal miners of Cherry, Illinois, embarked on an ordinary day that would soon transform into a thrilling and heart-wrenching saga.
From the moment these 484 men descended into the depths of the mine, their lives were forever changed. With broken electrical systems, they relied on kerosene torches to navigate the treacherous tunnels. Little did they know that this seemingly innocuous situation would soon spiral into a slow-moving disaster, gradually taking hold of their every breath. As author Sally Walker unveils this harrowing tale, she offers an hour-by-hour account of the Cherry Mine fire, detailing the heroic efforts of those attempting to rescue the trapped miners and the relentless battle for survival waged deep underground.
This poignant narration of the Cherry Mine disaster immerses you in the gripping struggle of the miners, balancing the alternating perspectives of those above ground, striving to execute a successful rescue mission, and those below, fighting against the odds in a desperate battle for their lives. Through eight excruciating days, hope and the indomitable human spirit shine through, reminding us of the power of camaraderie even in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Enriched with a wealth of archival photographs and documents, Underground Fire serves as both an intriguing historical account and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Immerse yourself in this stirring narrative that speaks of triumph in the face of unimaginable hardship. Don't miss your chance to experience Underground Fire: Hope, Sacrifice, and Courage in the Cherry Mine Disaster today.
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