
Springhill Mining Disasters
The Story
In the 1950s, the town of Springhill, N.S., was devastated by two of the worst mining disasters in Canadian history. An explosion in 1956 killed 39 miners, and another 74 died in the "bump" of 1958. Despite much hardship, the people of Springhill have shown a will to survive that is tougher than coal.

A geothermal future for Springhill
Springhill emerges from its mining past to embrace a geothermal future.

New union awards benefits to retired miners of Springhill
Retired miners talk about the difficulty of life after the disasters and their need for compensation.

What’s ahead for Springhill?
The mines are closed and jobs are scarce but optimism prevails.

Springhill survives
Despite its lethal history, some men hope the coal mine will reopen so they can return to work.

The miracle miners of Springhill
On Oct. 29, 1958, six days after the bump, rescuers hear voices through the coal. Twelve miners are discovered alive.

1958: 12 miners rescued in Springhill disaster
CBC-TV broadcasts live from the site of the 1958 Springhill mine explosion, where rescuers are moments away from freeing 12…

Springhill Mining Disaster: A widow’s story
A miner's widow talks about her life.

Second mining tragedy strikes Springhill
On Oct. 23, 1958, Springhill is revisited by tragedy.

Springhill Mining Disaster: The tragedy surfaces
As draegermen scour the mines for signs of life, families keep vigil at the pithead.

Mine explosion rocks Springhill
On Nov. 1, 1956, the town of Springhill is rocked by a terrible explosion in the No. 4 colliery of…