MINER, HAZEL (1904-1920)

“Angel of the Prairies”

On March 15, 1920, the worst blizzard in 30 years hit North Dakota and the surrounding area.  When the storm subsided three days later, 34 people had lost their lives.  One of the victims was Hazel Miner, the 15-year old daughter of Oliver County farmer William A. Miner and his wife, Blanche.  What makes this incident noteworthy, nearly 90 years after the tragedy, is the incredible heroism and self-sacrifice this teenager displayed to save the lives of her younger brother and sister.  Hazel literally gave her life so that her younger siblings might live.