It would be brilliant if this is your grandfather but I just wanted to sound a note of caution. There is very limited information given in the newspaper report to tie this to any specific person, so there is a chance this is not him, particularly as John Wilson is a relatively common name. 495 people were injured in collieries in 1884, but on the website we currently have 42 non-fatal injuries detailed for that year. I would imagine our coverage of non-fatal accidents is similarly poor for other years. Hope this doesn't all sound too negative – I would love to think you have found him!
There appears to be no record of this particular accident in the Inspectors reports for that year, although names are only published for one of the two Scottish districts.
I would suggest 2 routes for more information:
A local newspaper report might have more information (or it may only give the same detail as the Scotsman). You could try West Lothian Council local history library who have the West Lothian courier on microfilm. The Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser also often has good coverage of this part of West Lothian – Airdrie local studies library might help if you contacted them.
It mentions he was taken to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. I've never consulted their records but if they have anything similar to Glasgow you might get details of his admission. Perhaps someone who has consulted them can advise, but if not google Lothian health services archives.
Hope this helps
Kind regards
Joyce (from the Scottish Mining website)
