Flags are flying at half-mast today (May 3) at city hall in honour of dozens of people killed in Nanaimo's worst mine disaster 124 years ago to the day.
On May 3, 1887, a massive underground explosion ripped through Number One Coal Mine in Nanaimo, killing 148 men who had arrived from all over the world to earn a living in the coal mines. While some workers were single, it is estimated about 150 children lost their fathers on that doomed day and many wives were widowed.
"It's a significant part of our history," said Coun. Loyd Sherry. "When you lose 150 miners, one just has to look at the population of the community was in those days."
In 1887, Nanaimo's population was estimated to be about 4,000 people.
Historically, the flag on the Bastion has also flown at half mast every May 3 to honour the dead miners, said Sherry.
The South End Community Association will honour the fallen miners at an event on Saturday (May 7) at the foot of Milton Street at 1 p.m. Everybody is welcome to attend the event.