Ardmore 1915 Explosion - Ardmore, Oklahoma - Railway Disaster Sites on Waymarking.com

A wooden marker on site reads:

Locomotive 1108 - Mercy Engine
Brought Doctors and Nurses
After 1915 Explosion

City of Ardmore

In the early 1900's, transportation of petroleum, as well as most products through Oklahoma, was done through the railroads. On September 26, 1915, a fuel tanker was held on a siding at the Ardmore Depot.

On the next day, the temperatures started to rise over 90 degrees a safety valve opened up on the tanker, releasing not only the building pressure but also a flamable gas. The gas started settling in low areas of downtown. It is uncertain what ignited the gas, however, around 2:20 pm a worker went out to inspect the rail car, opening the dome.

The explosion killed 43 people an injured many others. The Engine #1108 was responsible for bringing aid workers to Ardmore.

The railroad, the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway, was found to be responsible in court. Over 1,700 claims were filed totaling $1.25 million to be paid out for the damage and loss in Ardmore

Bibliography:

• Enclopedia of Oklahoma History, Oklahoma Historical Society, hosted on the Oklahoma State University server. Data accessed on January 14, 2010.
• Steam Locomotive website, accessed on January 14, 2010.