Community remembers cave explorer who became trapped nearly 100 years ago

HORSE CAVE, Ky. – Hidden River Cave will soon commemorate an incident that occurred nearly 100 years ago, which impacted the local area for years to come.

On January 30, 1925, cave explorer Floyd Collins became trapped in Sand Cave near historic Mammoth Cave.

According to a release by Hart County Tourism and Hidden River Cave, Collins’ rescue effort captured national attention, drawing thousands of people to the area. They say the rescue attempt is the third-largest media story between World War I and II.

Although Collins did not survive, his name lives on years later after cave enthusiasts became drawn to the local area.

The release says at the time, Collins had been looking for a cave that would draw in travelers to his property. Official say it took nearly two weeks to reach Collins on Feb. 16.

David G. Foster, the president and CEO of the American Cave Conservation Association, says there are a number of ways you can remember Collins.

These include seeing the underground world Collins loved to explore at Mammoth Cave National Park, visiting Hidden River Cave or vising Collins’ homestead. You can also find Collins’ resting place at Mammoth Cave Baptist Church Cemetery on Flint Ridge Road.

In addition, the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center will feature “Floyd Collins The Musical” on March 8.

RELATED: Walking in Floyd Collins’ footsteps, a look ahead of the upcoming production

For more information on these attractions and more, visit kygetaway.com.

https://www.wnky.com/community-remembers-cave-explorer-who-became-trapped-nearly-100-years-ago/