March 1, 1910 was a disastrous day in King County. Two occupied trains – a mail train and a passenger train – yarded at Wellington, Washington, near Stevens Pass, waiting for the tracks ahead to be cleared of snow, were swept away in the worst avalanche in American history. 96 people were killed with countless others injured; most were railroad employees but many passengers were victims too. Though tragic, this is a fascinating story and an important chapter in King County and Northwest history.
The Northwest Railway Museum is pleased to announce it is hosting a Working on the Railroad event at the Snoqualmie Ridge TPC on Friday, March 5, 2010 at 6 PM. A gourmet dinner will be followed by a presentation from noted author Gary Krist, author of the White Cascade: The Great Northern Railway Disaster and America’s Deadliest Avalanche (available in the Depot Bookstore). The evening will also feature the Issaquah Singers performing a medley of railroad songs, and a silent auction with some memorable items including photos from the Wellington (Tye) area taken circa 1913. Proceeds benefit construction of the new Train Shed exhibit building. Tickets are $100 and are available from the Depot Bookstore in Snoqualmie in person or by phone (425) 888-3030 Extension 202.
(Photo depicts steam rotary x808 and crew circa 1913 at Wellington (Tye), WA.)
How about inviting Martin Burwash who just came out with the book "Vis Major." This book is the railroader's side of the Wellington disaster. Crist cites Burwash and Vis Major as part of his sources.
Dan
Martin Burwash has written an excellent book. Unfortunately there is not enought time during this event (Mr. Krist is speaking for 45 minutes) for a second speaker. We have however asked Martin to speak to our volunteers, but we will plan on asking him back for a public event in the near future. Thanks for the suggestion!