Report of the Bureau of Mines of the Department of Internal Affairs of ...

356 REPORT OF THE INSPECTORS OF MINES. Off. Do&
Percy.—This mine is now working on pillars and ribs, all the solid
coal having been worked out. It is in good, healthful condition.
Mining boss, Everhart Shipley.
Fine Hill.—A small force of men is employed at this mine, not
enought to bring it under the requirements of the law. Its condition
is fairly good.
Ponfeigh.—This mine was formerly known as the "Buffalo," but a
change of lessees changed the name. When the present operators
commenced to run coal, their plant was burned. They thereupon decided
to open up a slope and haul coal from the mine by that method
rather than rebuild a derrick over the old shaft. This took some
time, consequently, they were not enabled to ship a lai-ge quantity of
coal during the year. A new hoisting engine has been put in at the
slope opening, a new tipple built and a fan erected over the old shaft,
also, a new pump at the bottom of it, so that they are in good condition
to commence operations this year. The ventilation and drainage are
excellent. Mining boss and superintendent, William McDowell.
liedstone.—The air current in this mine has been reversed and
better results obtained. The air now reaches the working places
first, and the men get a better quality as well as greater quantity
of it than before the change was made. Formerly, the air came
through the rib workings and the gob and was polluted by noxious
gases before it reached the men. These gases are now carried out
of the mine by the air current, after having first supplied the wants
of the men. The volume of air has been considerably increased by
the change, as natural forces now help the ventilating apparatus instead
of working ngainst it as formerly. The mouth of the lower
slope has been arched for a distance of 90 feet,
with a 13-inch thickness
of brick, resting on two feet thick stone side walls 8 feet 8 inches
high. The mine is in excellent condition and is being well looked
after. Mining boss, Elijah Parker.
Stewart.—This mine is as always, in excellent condition. Everything
is done that will tend to the welfare and safety of the persons
employed. The requirements of law are not only complied with, but
even exceeded to secure that object. A new bore hole has been
drilled farther down the slope for the puri)Ose of pumping water
through it to the surface. At this place a large sump has been made
to collect the water for the pnm]) which will be placed there. Mining
boss, Isaac (x. Roby.
Snider.—This mine has never at any time employed more than nine
persons, therefore, I did not visit it during the year, as it did not come
under the provisions of law. Three years ago I insisted that a furnace
or some other artificial means of producing ventilation should bo
put in (lie mine to comply with the law. I was informed thvn that