Miner’s Knife
“This knife belonged to T. G. Thomson, the manager of Whiterigg Colliery, near Airdrie,” continues Clare. “It was used in the rescue efforts following the fatal disaster at Stanrigg Colliery in 1918. Nineteen men and boys died when water and moss flowed into the pit, causing shafts to flood, trapping them underground. Only eight bodies were recovered; the others remained entombed. Miner John Mccabe was awarded the George Cross for his bravery in running deeper into the pit to warn others of the danger. In doing so he saved the lives of 58 men, two of whom were his brothers. The family donated the pocket watch he was presented with by the Carnegie Trust in recognition of his efforts, which has since been added to the Summerlee collection.”