A disaster at the Black Vein Pit at Risca, near Newport, trapped and killed 142 Welsh coal miners. Around 200 men were starting their day deep underground when a series of explosions rocked the three miles of galleries around nine in the morning. Rescuers were able to descend several hours later bringing up survivors and the first of the bodies. Recovery was difficult and victims were brought to the surface all through the following month. (By John Osborne)
Source Citation
Chronicle, The Annual Register or a View of the History and Politics of the Year 1860 (London: F. & J. Rivington, 1861), 179-180.