SCHUYLKILL COUNTY, PA – 52 years ago, three men became trapped underground in a coal mine in Sheppton. Those men, David Fellin, Henry Throne and Louis Bova were trapped in a mine off Schoolhouse Road. Two of the men, Fellin and Throne, were found to be alive and a rescue effort soon began. The event gained national attention as this was the first rescue attempt of its kind. A borehole was used in an attempt to rescue the miners. After two long weeks, the two men were brought to the surface. Unfortunately, Louis Bova was never recovered. As a result of the successful rescue, the technique used in Sheppton has been used throughout the world to rescue trapped miners.
On Saturday, August 22, the community gathered on Schoolhouse Road to celebrate the dedication of a Historical Marker near the mine disaster site. The ceremony began with “Porcupine” Pat McKinney of the Schuylkill Conservation District introducing the emcee, Carol Zielinski, who also submitted the application for the Marker.
A Honor Guard from the Sheppton American Legion presented the American Flag and the crowd recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Multiple speakers gave a few words including a representative from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, State Representative Jerry Knowles and a representative from the Can-Do Community Foundation who sponsored the Marker.
Ronnie Sando, the last remaining rescuer from the Pagnotti Coal Company spoke of his memory of the rescue and recited a poem. John Bova, son of Louis, spoke a few words and then sang a song in memory of the disaster. Doves were released in memory of all three miners.
The time finally came to reveal the newest Historical Marker in Pennyslvania. John Bova and Ronnie Sando each climbed atop a piece of coal next to the Marker and pulled the cover off to show the crow the new Marker.
The ceremony was closed with a prayer and all attendees were invited to the Sheppton-Oneida Fire Company where refreshments were offered and everyone could share memories.
