Ardmore 1915 Explosion - Ardmore, Oklahoma
Posted by: 
gparkes
N 34° 09.753 W 097° 07.273
14S E 673181 N 3781774
On September 27, 1915, a devistating explosion claimed the lives of 43 people as well as the countless numbers that were injured.
Waymark Code: WM82BV
Location: Oklahoma, United States
Date Posted: 01/14/2010
Views: 10
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
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