Houille

1947 · 39389 — Springfield: State of Illinois 1947. Broadside. Folio 12½" X 16½". Very good. Single horizontal fold; lightly age toned with mat darkening along right and bottom margins not affecting border or text. Within a thick decorative border this "true and official copy of House Resolution No. 44 of the Sixty-fifth General Assembly" opens: "Whereas On Tuesday March 25 1947 there perished in an explosion at Mine No. 5 of the Centralia Coal Company the following men" -- followed by four columns listing the names of 111 men making this one of the worst coal mine disasters in U.S. history. Additional "Whereas"s note "the horror of their sudden death and the shock to parents wives and children" and that "The whole state has been deeply aggrieved at the suffering and sorrow with which the community of Centralia has been afflicted." Copies of this Resolution were prepared for the families of those who lost their lives. Large circular flute-edged blind-embossed gold foil seal at lower left signed by Fred W. Ruegg Clerk of the House immediately above. Signed at lower right by Hugh Green Speaker of the House and by Edward J. Barrett Secretary of State. Despite margin toning that could easily be matted out an impressive display piece. Produced in a small quantity and rarely found. State of Illinois unknown