January 21, 1915 - Raleigh Register

"Edgar E. Hendrickson Meets Death in Mine"

Raleigh Register. January 21, 1915

Today’s flashback takes us to 1915, when a tragic accident ended the life of a highly esteemed citizen.

"Mr. Hendrickson was a plain man of the people, but he numbered his friends as well among the most influential citizens of this section of the state."

On Tuesday, January 19, 1915, every business house closed at 10 o'clock that morning, during the funeral of Edgar E. Hendrickson as a tribute of respect.

Hendrickson, not yet 40 years old, had been a coal miner, high standing Masonic lodge member, Beckley city recorder, and a "well informed man with a broad sympathy for humanity."

Unfortunately, tragedy plays no favorites. While working at the City Coal Company, between 12 and 1 o'clock in the afternoon, a 500 pound piece of slate fell atop of the unsuspecting Hendrickson. He was lying on his shovel on the floor digging under for a shot in the coal, when the slate fell. His upper body and lungs were crushed, and he was pinned under the slate for about 30 minutes. The driver had just taken out a loaded car when the accident occurred, and when he returned with the empty car, he discovered Hendrickson.

The services were held at the First Baptist Church, of which Hendrickson was a member. He was interred at Wildwood Cemetery. He left behind his wife and adopted daughter, 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

"His life was an example for youth and age alike."

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Did you know? Mining accidents were tragically common in southern West Virginia during the early 1900s, especially in small privately operated mines.