Keegan’s Grandfather Saved Miners in North East Town’s Darkest Disaster

A huge explosion happened in a mine caused by flammable gas. Flames shot from the mine shaft, and eyewitnesses described the terrifying event. The blast echoed through the town. Families feared for the miners and rushed to the Burns Pit entrance in West Stanley.

The disaster happened 116 years ago on a Sunday at 3:45 p.m. 168 men and boys died; some were just 13 years old. Thankfully, some miners survived. Frank Keegan, a mine inspector, bravely went back to save others and rescued 26 people.

Frank’s grandson was Kevin Keegan, who became a famous footballer. People saw him as a hero too, decades later. Frank Keegan risked his life greatly, searching for bodies and survivors after his family had moved from Ireland. Twenty-six men were trapped in a pocket of clean air and rescued from the Tilley seam. Four men were from the Townley seam; however, one died later from the effects of afterdamp.

Maureen Anderson wrote a book about Durham mining disasters. Kevin Keegan wrote its foreword as he’d heard stories of his grandad’s heroism. His dad said Frank rescued others and saved pit ponies. Kevin thought it was just a story until he saw a photo later in Newcastle.

The photo was of the disaster survivors, and his grandad, Frank Keegan, was in it. Kevin clearly recognized the strong resemblance; Frank had a moustache. Kevin Keegan helped raise funds for a memorial wheel on Chester Road in Stanley and brought his team for a game.

He unveiled the plaque in 1995, which honored those who died. Memorials help people to remember, recalling victims and heroes. Now, no pits are left, which is said to be very sad, but at least people work in safer places.

A service is on Saturday at Beamish Museum. The Beamish Choir will sing a hymn, and Beamish Youth Club will read the names of the 168 dead. Another service happens on Sunday by the memorial near North Durham Academy. A minute’s silence will mark the disaster.

The church bells will toll 168 times, and dignitaries will attend the service. People will honor the dead miners and the tragedy. Councillor Carole Hampson spoke; she said the community was strong and people should know what occurred there, emphasizing the great importance of respect. She added that many people came to help Stanley, and survivors went back to rescue others. The community must remember; the service helps bring people together.