Farewell letters written by the Coal Miners who believed their death was at hand. Fortunately after eight days in a hell-like
environment these men survived. These were the "Eight-Day Men".
Some men who did not survive had letters of the same kind found on their persons.
Nov.13, 09
Dear Wife and Family I write these few lines to let you know that we was alive at
this time and if we are found dead, try and keep the family together and use your best judgment about what you can do for
them for I may not see any of you again so good bye and God Bless you all.
From your Loving Husband and Father
WALTER WAITE
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JOHN LORIMER
Dear Wife
I am still living yet this is five oclock Sunday morning, but we have poor hope as the black damp is getting the best of
us there is twenty-one of us all together here dear wife dont grieve we will meet again, God bless you and believe in Him.
He will take care of you, I guess we will meet in a better land, when you get over this let them know at home, that is all
Dear, God bless you.
Your loving husband
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In mine of Cherry IL on Sunday 14, Nov. 1909.
Dear Erminia and Son:
Now being half past one p.m. I am very hungry but suffering much more from thirst.
Dear Erminia am very sure that my last hour has struck, and never will leave this grave, I beg of you not to think no longer
of my death for I feel I will have an easy death.
You will write to my unfortuned mother and brothers and tell them of my sad death.
I have nothing more to say, only that to educate my dear child the best you can, and when he grows you may tell him that
he had an honest father, would like to say hoping to see you again, but must say goodbye forever, last kisses from your
ANTENORE.
***************************
Nov.14, Cherry, IL., 1909
Dear Wife and Children I write these few lines to you and I think it will be for the last time. I have tried to get out
twice but was driven back, there seems to be no hope for us, I come down this shaft yesterday to help save mens lives. I hope
the men I got out were saved.
Well Elizabeth if I am found dead take me to Streator to bury and move back.
Keep Esther and Florence and Jennie together as much as you can.
I hope they will not forget their Father so I will bid you all goodbye and God Bless you all.
GEORGE EDDY
***********************
Dear Wife and Children
I am now writing just before we all go.
I know Maggie you will be in a awful state. I have been thinking of you Mag and the children. I loved my children and wife.
But if it is Gods wish for us to go, God knows what is best. It is five oclock Sunday morning when I am writing. Maggie I
am praying to God and my Saviour.
Good-by wife and children. Be good to the children Maggie. Please give all the folks at home my best wishes.
Maggie I wish you and the children to attend church and live good Christian lives, believe in God Maggie.
From your Loving Husband TOM WHITE
Cherry Mine disaster
