Engineering Tragedy: The Ashtabula Train Disaster — Free Screening
Plus Q&A with the Film’s Producers

Friday, June 9, from 6:30-9:00 PM

Akron Civic Theatre
182 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308

The Ashtabula Disaster was the deadliest and most notorious bridge failure of the 19th Century and a transforming event in American History. It happened in Ashtabula, Ohio on December 29, 1876, during a raging blizzard. In this town off the shores of Lake Erie, an all-iron railroad bridge collapsed sending one of the most luxurious trains ever to ride the rails, train No.5 - The Pacific Express, plummeting 70ft into a frozen river. Of the 170 souls that were onboard, only 75 survived, most with serious injuries. Of the 95 who perished, 47 were identified, 48 were unidentifiable.

A documentary was created to reflect on this event and PBS Western Reserve is hosting a free, special screening event at the Akron Civic Theatre on Friday, June 9, from 6:30-9:00 PM. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A with the film’s producers.