MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – One hundred years later, the Barnes-Hecker mine disaster is still bringing this community together.
The Marquette Regional History Center hosted historian Jim Paquette this evening for a presentation titled “Uncovering the Truths about the Barnes-Hecker Mine Disaster” – drawing around 150 people to learn more about Michigan’s deadliest mine disaster. On November 3rd, 1926, the Barnes-Hecker mine collapsed near Ishpeming, killing 51 men, 41 of whom remain entombed in the mine to this day.
Paquette shared ongoing research and documented evidence shedding new light on the victims and their families. Paquette says the community’s response to the centennial has been a testament to the U.P.’s resilience. “This community coming together, and really what we’ve been doing here in commemorating the Barnes-Hecker mine disaster and all of the people that suffered from it, in spite of the mining company trying to downplay it, it just shows the inner strength from this community,” says Paquette.
Commemorative events for the disaster, including a candlelight vigil, will continue through November 3rd.
