50 years ago today, a massive explosion ripped through the Consolidation Coal Company’s Number 9 mine near Farmington. Twenty-one miners were able to escape, but another 78 were trapped inside. It led to passage of the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act, which placed strict rules on mine roof supports and ventilation. Learn more here: http://www.wvpublic.org/post/november-20-1968-farmington-mine-explosion-kills-78 | West Virginia Public Broadcasting