One of the most important accomplishments of the Provincial Workmen's Association was the organization, late in the nineteenth century, of specially-trained search and rescue teams for each mining district. This action was a response to the intolerable situation in the Pictou district throughout the 1870s; several serious explosions occurred and the mine owners' apparent indifference and irresponsibility convinced the miners that improved safety would be secured only through their own efforts. Members of the rescue teams called Draegermen after the German mining engineer, Alexander B. Drager, who first developed the teams in Europe were experienced miners who volunteered for the service.
They were on constant call for all accidents, and major disasters required the assistance of teams from all over the province. Self contained breathing apparatuses permitted the Draegermen to enter smoke and gas-filled mines; the crew shown here carry such equipment, as well as safety lamps. While the crews' primary responsibility was the locating and rescuing of trapped miners, they were also frequently called upon to extinguish fires or clear debris following a cave-in. The responsibility for training and equipping the crews was assumed by the coal companies and the provincial government. Over the years, Draegermen have exhibited such supreme bravery and dedication that they are often acknowledged and respected leaders in the mining communities.
Courtesy: Beaton Institute, College of Cape Breton
