Funeral For A Victim Of Explosion In Extension Mines

At about 8.30 am on Tuesday, October 5, 1909, an explosion followed by the emission of afterdamp gas (carbon monoxide) killed 32 men in the Extension mines. The youngest victim was 17 years old, the oldest 48, representing 13 different nationalities. Funerals continued back to back for several days in Ladysmith, with many of the victims being buried in the town cemetery. This photograph was taken at the front steps of the Abbotsford Hotel.