It is kind of ironic this reminder came up on International Women's Day. In working on our family tree this year I came across a huge family tragedy. My Poppa's family on my maternal side comes from hard working German immigrants who were coal miners in Pennsylvania. On this day in 1886, 3 of them were killed on one of the worst explosions at the Uniondale Mine. My 3rd Grandfather 40, his son and namesake 18 and his brother were killed. While this tragedy is soul crushing and heartbreaking enough for my 3rd Great Grandmother. While she was attending their funeral their youngest child an infant died as well. They had a total of 10 children she was 40 years old. She ended up living until 1931, 86 years old. On her gravestone it simply said "Mother". On this International Women's Day I would like us all to remember the unsung hero's. The women that have faced such extreme sadness, challenges and tragedy but didn't fall down. They stood up. Their love for others helped pull them through. It wasn't easy but day by day they did it. Today I honor Gertrude Cope and hope that there is a little bit of her in me
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