ODDS ‘N’ SODS — The master mechanics

The master mechanics I have known used a wide range of skills in servicing mines, plants, mills, equipment and (occasionally) the community. I had the privilege of working with two such men during the time I spent in the uranium camp of Elliot Lake, Ont.

Ed MacAfee was a capable master mechanic engaged in the early development and operation of the Quirke mine. He was a hard-working and meticulous tradesman who arrived in town with Dorothy and their three children in the early stages of the mine’s development. Ed was soon involved in shaft-sinking, plant and mill construction, housing developments and sundry attendant tasks. He was soft-spoken and possessed of the many and rare skills that could both predict and solve problems.

He insisted upon a weekly conference with supervisors to discuss and resolve problems and outline plans. On numerous occasions, Ed took the time to talk to me about the errors and omissions confronting our campaign. With Ed, it was never “my problem,” but “our problem.” When I was promoted to another mine in the area, Ed came to see me each week, always offering sound advice.

Until the end of his working days, he believed in open communication and honest criticism.

Peter Campagnola, the serious-minded and dedicated master mechanic at the Panel mine, was involved in mine development, mill construction and surface maintenance programs. He also organized the support crews needed for each section.

I cannot recall a time in the underground development of the mine when Pete and his group failed to support us. We suffered many emergencies in our trackless program, and he always bailed us out. With Pete at the helm of maintenance, the Panel mine was a trend-setter in terms of cost control and efficiency.

On Saturday nights, Peter loved to assist his better half in preparing for splendid after-work parties. Special Italian concoctions were the norm, along with copious amounts of homemade wine. Mrs. Campagnola was a gifted piano player with a beautiful voice, and those evenings were enriched with good company, wine and music.

A good master mechanic was able to prepare for, as well as introduce, tremendous technological change to mining operations. It took some time for operations to adjust to advancements, and the men who carried the burden during those transitions were the master mechanics. Without them, the industry would not have progressed.

— The author, a retired mining engineer, resides in Vancouver, B.C.