FIRE AT STATE COAL MINE.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 3115, 15 February 1909, Page 3

FIRE AT STATE COAL MINE.

SHOPS DESTROYED. By Telegraph—Pre33 Association. GREYMOUTH, February 1 S. Shortly after noon to-day, which is the usual holiday at the State mine, it was discovered that a large firewiis engulfing tne three shops which stand apart from any other portion of the mine buildings, and which ara used by the blacksmiths, the carpenters and the fitters. The buildings were situated to the north of the endless rope tramway, the nearest building to them being the weighing office, and weigh bridge. The bins and shoots are a good way from them, and practically out of reach of the fire. None of the hands engaged in either of the shops were there to-day, many being away at Hokitika at the school picnic. The State mine officials about noon noticed flames coming from the roof of the blacksmith's shop at the mine. The whistles were immediately sounded, and the alarm brought a few residents (the majority being absent at Hokitika at the school picnic), who did everything possible to save the shops, but without avail, as everything was destroyed. The machinery is rendered practically useless. Had not the wind been in the direc- i tion it was the fire would have been a most serious one. The cause of the fire is unknown. It is not anticipated that the fire will cause a cessation of work in the mine on Monday, the only men affected being the mechanical staff.