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Engineering Tragedy: The Ashtabula Train Disaster
(2022)“On December 29, 1876 during a raging blizzard, the Ashtabula train disaster and bridge collapse was the worst train disaster of the 19th century, claiming the lives of 97 people.”
Synopsis
The Ashtabula train disaster and bridge collapse was the worst train disaster of the 19th century, claiming the lives of 97 people. The engineering and structural failures that caused the collapse of a bridge that stood for over a decade, also took down the most luxurious train of the day, “The Pacific Express #5.” The accident happened in Ashtabula, Ohio on December 29, 1876 during a raging blizzard, sending the luxury train crashing 70-feet into a river gorge and costing the lives of 97 people. The disaster shocked the nation, yet it’s a story that’s been lost in the pages of history. In a strange twist of fate and intrigue, the bridge disaster also became the backdrop to the still unsolved murder of Charles Collins, the railroad’s chief engineer. It also contributed to the eventual suicide of millionaire Amasa Stone, the president of the railroad and the designer and builder of the bridge.
Community Reviews
“**Russell A.-** 2 nights back I purchased the video on Vimeo. I just had to post how well done the documentary turned out. I’ve followed the information about the tragedy for years. I’ve been to the cemetery, I’ve read everything I could get my hands on, and I’ve seen some pretty weird less than credible and creepy things. This documentary is gold. Years of research. Consideration for the era, the times, a fair look at the players involved, and facts. Very well done. One cannot “enjoy” watching such a tragedy. Perhaps it’s the scratching of an itch to somehow resolve the question of “Why?” To somehow resolve the mistakes of the past. Human greed? Reliance on what one thinks they know about engineering — and money. It always comes back to money. Money, power, and not scraping a failure to save a buck, or rushing something to save face. The tragedy was a “perfect storm” thankfully resulting in at least some positive changes. My kudos and thanks to those who made this documentary happen.”
“**Joe F.-** Watched the film with great interest - it was an informative and dramatic presentation. Well Done! Everyone in Ashtabula area needs to view it. - THANK YOU for all your hard work.”
“**Jacki J.-** Watched last night. Excellent production!!”
