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Since 1986, Wyoming has been the largest producer of coal in the United States, accounting for 40% of the country’s supply. The coal mining industry continues to play a role in the state’s economy. Currently, there are 17 active mines with over five thousand employees among them. Coal mining is one of the most dangerous occupations in the world—employees risk explosions and lung damage.

Although improvements continue to be made within the industry, 13 mining disasters have still occurred over the course of Wyoming’s history. Uncover the stories behind some of the most devastating mining disasters in Wyoming.

Almy

In 1881, the first mining disaster to occur in the state of Wyoming happened near Almy, north of Evanston. The mining explosion caused 38 casualties and destroyed several buildings in the process. Five years later, another explosion at the Almy mine killed 13 miners—including two young boys. Due to the tragedies, Almy mine shut down in the 1940s.

Red Canyon

Considered one of the worst mining disasters in Wyoming, the explosion at the Red Canyon mine destroyed the powerhouse and produced several cave-ins—sixty men lost their lives in the incident. The Red Canyon explosion caused the third most deaths in Wyoming’s history; only a couple of the men escaped from the powerhouse after the explosion.

Hanna

In 1903, the first disaster occurred in Hanna Mine; coal gas ignited and killed 169 miners. Thankfully, 46 managed to escape. In 1908, the mine exploded again—this time trapping 18 miners underground. 40 rescuers and a state mining inspector immediately began to try and rescue the trapped men. Unfortunately, a second explosion went off and killed all 59 men at mine.

Frontier

Since it happened on a holiday, the 1923 Frontier Mine tragedy was not as disastrous as it could have been—only 135 of the 250 miners were working that day. Sadly, an abrupt explosion occurred from a fire boss lighting a flame near gas, leading to the death of 99 working miners. However, 23 men managed to barricade themselves in the mine to protect themselves from the flames. A few hours after the initial explosion, rescuers were able to help 23 successfully escape the mine.

While mining is an important profession, it’s also a very dangerous one. Luckily, health and safety precautions continue to be improved to ensure miner’s protection.