Over the past months have recreated the Inquiry into the 1875 Lan Colliery disaster. The actual records are lost. Luckily, archived newspaper of the day give near verbatim reports of proceedings so through detailed reading, this research was possible.
One man is particularly interesting. Fireman William John. He is recalled to give evidence several times, told his job is on the line. He gives evidence against Abraham Phillips, the overman.
Now my question. I know nothing about William John beyond the fact he was fireman at Lan Colliery and he wasn’t underground at the time of the explosion, and that he hadn’t entered gas in the record book.
Is There any possibility of tracing a person with so little information? William John. fireman Lan Colliery. 1875. Probably lived in Lower Pentyrch, Gwaelod y Garth, or Taffs Well.
Any ideas welcomed! Thanks so much.
