Oaks explosion, 12 December 1866

Background. Oaks Colliery was located at Hoyle Mill near Stairfoot in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. The mine operated on the longwall principle with about 60 miles of wall at the time of the explosion. Prior to 1866, the colliery had experienced explosions in 1845, and the area had seen other major disasters. The town of Barnsley is a market town in South Yorkshire, historically part of the West Riding.

The Explosion. On Wednesday 12 December 1866, 340 men and boys were underground, including hewers, hurriers, and trappers. A series of explosions caused by firedamp ripped through the workings. The disaster killed 361 men and boys, based on 340 working below ground in the first explosion with six survivors, and 27 rescuers killed on 13 December. It remains the worst mining disaster in an English coalfield.

Rescue and Inquiry. Rescuers from neighbouring collieries worked in relays, but 28 rescuers were found dead. The inquest lasted 13 days but reached no definite conclusion despite evidence of gas complaints. Joseph Dickinson submitted a report to parliament in April 1867. The government response was slow, with twelve more explosions occurring before the 1872 Coal Mines Act.