John S. Barrett died attempting to save Victor A. Erickson from suffocation, Negaunee, Michigan, January 11, 1914. During a fire in an iron mine, Erickson, 31, mine timberman, who was wearing an oxygen helmet, was overcome on a level over 700 feet below the surface. Barrett, 44, night mine captain, and a younger man, each wearing an oxygen helmet, went 120 feet through smoke and gas and in darkness to Erickson. They grasped him and dragged him about 70 feet toward a place of safety, going through deep mud as rapidly as they could, then Barrett released his hold on Erickson, called for help, and fell. His companion proceeded to safety alone. Others without helmets made efforts to drag Barrett to fresh air but were unsuccessful. While these efforts were being made, Barrett requested one man leave him because of the danger to the man. This man was overcome, but he was immediately removed to a place of safety and was revived. Within half an hour a shaft was opened, and the smoke and gas escaped from the mine. Barrett was taken to the surface, and was found to be dead. Erickson revived. 12811-1064
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