On the morning of April 28, 1924, an explosion at the Benwood coal mine south of Wheeling, in Marshall County, killed 119 miners. The blast happened just after the workday began. A miner’s open light likely ignited methane gas near a roof collapse that occurred after safety checks.

The dry, dusty mine had poor ventilation, causing a dust explosion that spread through the entire mine. Rescue efforts were slow and dangerous, with blocked tunnels and deadly gas (called afterdamp) threatening the teams. Families waited outside, but by Friday, all 119 miners were confirmed dead.