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Do we REALLY want to do another mega-thread?
Of course we do!
This time it's one by popular(ish) demand: a county-by-county breakdown of the accidents in our free database (from http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk ).
Of course we do!
This time it's one by popular(ish) demand: a county-by-county breakdown of the accidents in our free database (from http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk ).
We asked you how best to convey the data, amounting to 3929 individuals in our first dataset, between 1911-15.
You said: alphabetically within nation - https://twitter.com/RWLDproject/status/1156484726988914688
You said: alphabetically within nation - https://twitter.com/RWLDproject/status/1156484726988914688
We've followed the county names, boundaries & conventions in place at the time - largely thanks to one of our volunteers, Stuart Taylor, who has been painstaking in working out what should be where: thanks Stuart!
And of course thanks to all our volunteers who transcribed data!
And of course thanks to all our volunteers who transcribed data!
We'll just give you the county & the numbers of staff killed & injured, as an occasional series – we’ll do it as regularly as possible alongside other commitments and content!
Not forgetting that we’re only covering the counties in which accidents happened & were investigated - at the moment we've only got data for around 3% of all cases of worker accidents.
That reflects what the state covered at the time.
That reflects what the state covered at the time.
Our current project extensions are capturing around 70,000 more cases, from the company & union records, 1880s-1939.
More on the union extension here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/trades-union-project-extension/
And more on the company extension here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/35000-records-from-the-national-archives/
More on the union extension here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/trades-union-project-extension/
And more on the company extension here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/35000-records-from-the-national-archives/
That means there were plenty of accidents within each county included in our thread, as well as those counties that don't appear, but which don't appear here.
Caveat emptor! We have an incomplete picture - but the best we can do with the suriving records.
Caveat emptor! We have an incomplete picture - but the best we can do with the suriving records.
How do we explain the distribution of the accidents we see?
An excellent question, & one we're deferring for now (sorry!).
We have our hunches, but all thoughts on this very welcome.
An excellent question, & one we're deferring for now (sorry!).
We have our hunches, but all thoughts on this very welcome.
To the details!
We're going to de-centre England, by starting further afield: the island of Ireland.
Though in its entirety it was a part of the UK in this period, we've split it down into NI & Ireland. We're going to start with Ireland.
We're going to de-centre England, by starting further afield: the island of Ireland.
Though in its entirety it was a part of the UK in this period, we've split it down into NI & Ireland. We're going to start with Ireland.
IRELAND:
A total of 26 fatalities & 99 injuries were investigated - a suspiciously low number.
Our first county:
Carlow -
1 fatality: 27 yr old porter Patrick Quigley died on 18/10/1913 at Muine Bheag, run over by a wagon he was going to uncouple.
A total of 26 fatalities & 99 injuries were investigated - a suspiciously low number.
Our first county:
Carlow -
1 fatality: 27 yr old porter Patrick Quigley died on 18/10/1913 at Muine Bheag, run over by a wagon he was going to uncouple.
Cavan -
1 injury: on 25 May 1912, an employee of a local timber merchant, P McCabe had his left arm broken at Cootehill station, hit by a flyaway crane windlass whilst unloading timber.
1 injury: on 25 May 1912, an employee of a local timber merchant, P McCabe had his left arm broken at Cootehill station, hit by a flyaway crane windlass whilst unloading timber.
Clare -
1 fatality: 22/12/1914 mason William Condon at Ennis, crushed between platform edge & wagon;
1 injury: 22/01/1913 shunter Michael Wixted, 18, at Killaloe, caught his left leg between wagon & platform wall.
1 fatality: 22/12/1914 mason William Condon at Ennis, crushed between platform edge & wagon;
1 injury: 22/01/1913 shunter Michael Wixted, 18, at Killaloe, caught his left leg between wagon & platform wall.
Cork -
4 killed & 13 injured. 2nd largest totals of Irish counties.
Presumably the greater concentration of lines & traffic through the port of Cobh (then called Queenstown) meant more casualties.
Handy 1897 map of Irish counties & railways here: http://www.maproom.co.uk/maps/brit/ireland.html
4 killed & 13 injured. 2nd largest totals of Irish counties.
Presumably the greater concentration of lines & traffic through the port of Cobh (then called Queenstown) meant more casualties.
Handy 1897 map of Irish counties & railways here: http://www.maproom.co.uk/maps/brit/ireland.html
What would be great would be to be able to do better analysis: comparing absolute numbers of casualties with things like route miles, traffic moved, & staff employed. That might suggest if one county was more dangerous than another more reliably than just looking at the figures!
Donegal - 3 injuries.
On 21/07/1912 nr Clar Bridge station driver P Gallinagh climbed on footstep of his loco as it was moving; his arm hit a passing footbridge & his head hit the footstep.
He was told he should have stopped the engine before going onto the footstep.
On 21/07/1912 nr Clar Bridge station driver P Gallinagh climbed on footstep of his loco as it was moving; his arm hit a passing footbridge & his head hit the footstep.
He was told he should have stopped the engine before going onto the footstep.
The biggie today: Dublin
7 fatalities, 31 injuries.
Your periodic reminder, though, that there would have been far, far more casualties in practice: our numbers are just those cases in our database.
All available free from: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
7 fatalities, 31 injuries.
Your periodic reminder, though, that there would have been far, far more casualties in practice: our numbers are just those cases in our database.
All available free from: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
A change in so many ways: #Galway
2 injuries, incl farmer John Glynn, hurt unloading coal at Gort: his cart was hit when the coal wagon was bumped by another.
No doubt the small no of casualties was a result of the relatively sparsely laid railway lines in the county.
2 injuries, incl farmer John Glynn, hurt unloading coal at Gort: his cart was hit when the coal wagon was bumped by another.
No doubt the small no of casualties was a result of the relatively sparsely laid railway lines in the county.
#Kerry
2 fatalities, 4 injuries
1 of the fatalities was 21yr old Thomas Rossiter, caught between buffers at #Tralee.
The other was James Lynch, killed at Moyballa - more from this blog post: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/monorail-monorail-monorail/
2 fatalities, 4 injuries
1 of the fatalities was 21yr old Thomas Rossiter, caught between buffers at #Tralee.
The other was James Lynch, killed at Moyballa - more from this blog post: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/monorail-monorail-monorail/
#Kildare
1 fatality, 5 injuries
On 17/08/1912, night porter M Quinn died at Naas whilst shunting. No-one saw what happened, but it was thought he might have tripped over his long coat.
1 fatality, 5 injuries
On 17/08/1912, night porter M Quinn died at Naas whilst shunting. No-one saw what happened, but it was thought he might have tripped over his long coat.
#Kilkenny
1 fatality, 2 injuries
On 6/1/1912 goods guard Patrick Slattery was found injured between tracks at Thomastown; train overshot its stop & set back to the signal box, where the signalman had been asleep. Was Slattery hit when walking back to the box?
1 fatality, 2 injuries
On 6/1/1912 goods guard Patrick Slattery was found injured between tracks at Thomastown; train overshot its stop & set back to the signal box, where the signalman had been asleep. Was Slattery hit when walking back to the box?
#Laois
2 injuries
On 15/1/1914 fireman Patrick Walsh, 23, fell between his loco & its tender at Maryborough. A wheel passed over his arm, meaning it needed to be amputated.
2 injuries
On 15/1/1914 fireman Patrick Walsh, 23, fell between his loco & its tender at Maryborough. A wheel passed over his arm, meaning it needed to be amputated.
#Limerick
4 injuries - 3 of them to staff in their 20s, incl on 2/7/1911 fireman Patrick Horgan in Limerick, who fell from his engine when he went around it to oil it as it was moving. He injured his left knee, but survived.
4 injuries - 3 of them to staff in their 20s, incl on 2/7/1911 fireman Patrick Horgan in Limerick, who fell from his engine when he went around it to oil it as it was moving. He injured his left knee, but survived.
#Louth
5 injuries, 4 of them to staff under 30, incl 18 yr old temporary goods porter Michael Canavan at #Dundalk, caught between wagons & crushed between buffers.
2 of his ribs were fractured, but many in similar cases were killed.
5 injuries, 4 of them to staff under 30, incl 18 yr old temporary goods porter Michael Canavan at #Dundalk, caught between wagons & crushed between buffers.
2 of his ribs were fractured, but many in similar cases were killed.
#Mayo
1 injury: on 29/5/1913 goods guard Joseph Delaney was trying to couple moving wagons at #Charlestown. His shunting pole was defective, slipping & catching his hand between buffers. His left forefinger was crushed.
The rule forbidding coupling moving wagons was invoked!
1 injury: on 29/5/1913 goods guard Joseph Delaney was trying to couple moving wagons at #Charlestown. His shunting pole was defective, slipping & catching his hand between buffers. His left forefinger was crushed.
The rule forbidding coupling moving wagons was invoked!
#Meath
1 fatality, 4 injuries.
On 13/7/1914 J Clinton died & J Lynam injured at #Kilmessan, when they tried to use a fence post as a brake for the lorry they were riding on. The lorry rode up, throwing the men. Company told to fit lorries with brakes in future!
1 fatality, 4 injuries.
On 13/7/1914 J Clinton died & J Lynam injured at #Kilmessan, when they tried to use a fence post as a brake for the lorry they were riding on. The lorry rode up, throwing the men. Company told to fit lorries with brakes in future!
#Offaly
1 injury: on 7/10/1914 E Goodbody was on business at #Clara station; as a load was being moved from wagon to dray, the crane broke & part of the load fell on to Goodbody - injuring his head & back.
The crane's inspection 6 weeks' earlier was found inadequate!
1 injury: on 7/10/1914 E Goodbody was on business at #Clara station; as a load was being moved from wagon to dray, the crane broke & part of the load fell on to Goodbody - injuring his head & back.
The crane's inspection 6 weeks' earlier was found inadequate!
#Sligo
1 fatality: another person on business, at #Tubbercurry station, to load pigs.
On 12/2/1913 Patrick Kearns was passing between wagons but slipped and was run over as the wagons were shunted.
1 fatality: another person on business, at #Tubbercurry station, to load pigs.
On 12/2/1913 Patrick Kearns was passing between wagons but slipped and was run over as the wagons were shunted.
#Tipperary
1 fatality & 4 injuries.
On 27/1/1912 acting guard John Ashe was walking over a cattle pass at #Kilsheelan station when his foot slipped between the 2 boards. He injured his thigh.
According to the report he had a very narrow foot: the 2 boards were 4 inches apart.
1 fatality & 4 injuries.
On 27/1/1912 acting guard John Ashe was walking over a cattle pass at #Kilsheelan station when his foot slipped between the 2 boards. He injured his thigh.
According to the report he had a very narrow foot: the 2 boards were 4 inches apart.
#Waterford
1 fatality, 8 injuries.
More here than other counties recently, probably because of the size of Waterford city, & the traffic its port generated.
Certainly 6 of the cases took place in Waterford itself.
1 fatality, 8 injuries.
More here than other counties recently, probably because of the size of Waterford city, & the traffic its port generated.
Certainly 6 of the cases took place in Waterford itself.
#Westmeath
2 fatalies, 2 injures, all within 2 months of each other. 3 at #Athlone & the other at #Mullingar.
3 were a result of un/coupling stock, the other (injury 12/1/1912, Athlone) happened when fireman R Salmon had been trimming coal on the tender & was hit by a girder.
2 fatalies, 2 injures, all within 2 months of each other. 3 at #Athlone & the other at #Mullingar.
3 were a result of un/coupling stock, the other (injury 12/1/1912, Athlone) happened when fireman R Salmon had been trimming coal on the tender & was hit by a girder.
#Wexford
1 fatality, 4 injuries.
On 16/10/1912 fireman James Stafford, 29, lost a foot at Macmine Junction.
Getting down from his loco as it was moving, he got caught up in a turntable lever - his right foot fell under the tender wheels.
1 fatality, 4 injuries.
On 16/10/1912 fireman James Stafford, 29, lost a foot at Macmine Junction.
Getting down from his loco as it was moving, he got caught up in a turntable lever - his right foot fell under the tender wheels.
Last of Ireland's counties in our database: #Wicklow
2 injuries.
On 21/9/1914 track worker C Martin fractured his shoulder at #Bray. He was working between the lines when he was hit by a train he didn't see coming. The fireman didn't blow the whistle to warn him of the train.
2 injuries.
On 21/9/1914 track worker C Martin fractured his shoulder at #Bray. He was working between the lines when he was hit by a train he didn't see coming. The fireman didn't blow the whistle to warn him of the train.
So, for Ireland (as now constituted) that makes a total of 24 fatalities & 99 injuries - 123 cases in our database, covering 1911-15.
The true totals would have been much higher - at best this only captured around 3% of all staff accidents, but probably lower for Ireland.
The true totals would have been much higher - at best this only captured around 3% of all staff accidents, but probably lower for Ireland.
Starting tomorrow: what's now Northern Ireland!
Look out for more details, county-by-county, and find all the cases in our database (& other resources) available free from our website: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
Look out for more details, county-by-county, and find all the cases in our database (& other resources) available free from our website: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
NORTHERN IRELAND:
More unlikely low numbers - 10 fatalities & 43 injuries investigated. As always, many more accidents would actually have taken place.
Our first county:
#Antrim: 1 fatality & 7 injuries.
11/3/1912: T Jeffrey injured at Antrim, when wagon he was in was struck.
More unlikely low numbers - 10 fatalities & 43 injuries investigated. As always, many more accidents would actually have taken place.
Our first county:
#Antrim: 1 fatality & 7 injuries.
11/3/1912: T Jeffrey injured at Antrim, when wagon he was in was struck.
#Armagh
4 injuries.
On 28/5/1911 J Connor was acting as a ballast train guard at Bessbrook when he was caught between engine & wagon.
Apparently he broke the rules - despite never having been given a rule book, working excessive hours & not knowing how to use a shunting pole!
4 injuries.
On 28/5/1911 J Connor was acting as a ballast train guard at Bessbrook when he was caught between engine & wagon.
Apparently he broke the rules - despite never having been given a rule book, working excessive hours & not knowing how to use a shunting pole!
#Belfast
6 fatalities & 20 injuries.
Tthe greatest number for a NI county - no doubt reflecting the status & position of the city and the railway traffic it generated/ that flowed to/from.
6 fatalities & 20 injuries.
Tthe greatest number for a NI county - no doubt reflecting the status & position of the city and the railway traffic it generated/ that flowed to/from.
#Down
2 injuries.
On 19/3/1915 22 yr old fireman Robert McPeake had his hand bruised when collecting the tablet to allow his train on to the single line at #Crossgar.
2 injuries.
On 19/3/1915 22 yr old fireman Robert McPeake had his hand bruised when collecting the tablet to allow his train on to the single line at #Crossgar.
#Fermanagh
3 injuries.
On 28/3/1914 driver George McCann broke some ribs at #Enniskillen.
His engine collided with another whilst shunting. The other driver mistakenly thought he had authority to move his loco.
More from: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
3 injuries.
On 28/3/1914 driver George McCann broke some ribs at #Enniskillen.
His engine collided with another whilst shunting. The other driver mistakenly thought he had authority to move his loco.
More from: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
#Londonderry
3 fatalities, 4 injuries. Ages range from 20 to 64.
On 12/8/1913, coaching shunter D Armstrong had his head crushed at #Coleraine.
He went between coaches to couple them; his head was caught between gangways. He survived.
Recommended to reduce shunters' hours.
3 fatalities, 4 injuries. Ages range from 20 to 64.
On 12/8/1913, coaching shunter D Armstrong had his head crushed at #Coleraine.
He went between coaches to couple them; his head was caught between gangways. He survived.
Recommended to reduce shunters' hours.
#Tyrone
Last of the Northern Irish counties; 3 injuries.
2 were during coupling, 1 during goods loading: boilermaker J Mulholland on 21/4/1912 thought he was going to be hit by a girder slung from a crane, so jumped, hitting his right knee on a rail.
Last of the Northern Irish counties; 3 injuries.
2 were during coupling, 1 during goods loading: boilermaker J Mulholland on 21/4/1912 thought he was going to be hit by a girder slung from a crane, so jumped, hitting his right knee on a rail.
So that gives us a scant 10 fatalities & 43 injuries investigated in Northern Ireland between 1911 & mid-1915.
All those details are available, free, in our database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
All those details are available, free, in our database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
There were plenty more Northern Ireland accidents of course, some of which we're hoping to capture in our new project extensions.
Coming tomorrow: Wales!
Coming tomorrow: Wales!
On to #Wales today.
Lots in the database: 44 fatalities & 191 injuries.
That means lots more counties to come. First up: #Anglesey.
2 fatalites & 4 injuries.
On 30/3/1914 John Owen was killed in #Holyhead goods warehouse, hit by wagons when clearing rubbish between the lines.
Lots in the database: 44 fatalities & 191 injuries.
That means lots more counties to come. First up: #Anglesey.
2 fatalites & 4 injuries.
On 30/3/1914 John Owen was killed in #Holyhead goods warehouse, hit by wagons when clearing rubbish between the lines.
#Brecknockshire
2 fatalies & 8 injuries.
On 3/5/1913 fireman Edmund Lewis, age 20, injured his right eye at #Talyllyn.
He climbed onto the tender of his engine to release a rope but was struck by a loading gauge.
2 fatalies & 8 injuries.
On 3/5/1913 fireman Edmund Lewis, age 20, injured his right eye at #Talyllyn.
He climbed onto the tender of his engine to release a rope but was struck by a loading gauge.
#Caernarvonshire
8 injuries - no doubt reflecting the low density of railways in the county.
On 23/5/1913 porter William Griffiths, 19, had his left hand crushed between buffers at Port Dinorwic.
His shunting pole slipped as he was coupling wagons.
8 injuries - no doubt reflecting the low density of railways in the county.
On 23/5/1913 porter William Griffiths, 19, had his left hand crushed between buffers at Port Dinorwic.
His shunting pole slipped as he was coupling wagons.
#Cardiff
3 fatalities, 31 injuries.
No doubt this reflects the size, industrial importance & focal point (for the railway industry, with plenty of companies operating into & out of the city and docks).
Lots more to come soon, too!
Img: Cardiff Docks by Lionel Walden, 1894.
3 fatalities, 31 injuries.
No doubt this reflects the size, industrial importance & focal point (for the railway industry, with plenty of companies operating into & out of the city and docks).
Lots more to come soon, too!
Img: Cardiff Docks by Lionel Walden, 1894.
#Cardiganshire
5 injuries.
On 23/6/1911 shunter Dan Harris, 19, injured his right foot. He claimed he slipped on a wet sleeper.
But the loco driver's version of events made the inspector investigating the case believe Harris was riding on his shunting pole, slipped & fell.
5 injuries.
On 23/6/1911 shunter Dan Harris, 19, injured his right foot. He claimed he slipped on a wet sleeper.
But the loco driver's version of events made the inspector investigating the case believe Harris was riding on his shunting pole, slipped & fell.
#Carmarthenshire
2 fatalities, 7 injuries.
On 5/6/1914 fireman Jestyn Nash, 27, died at #Brynamman.
Moving coaches out of a siding, he looked back for a signal, but fell from the cab. Possibly he hit a telegraph pole too close to the line; it was recommended the pole be moved.
2 fatalities, 7 injuries.
On 5/6/1914 fireman Jestyn Nash, 27, died at #Brynamman.
Moving coaches out of a siding, he looked back for a signal, but fell from the cab. Possibly he hit a telegraph pole too close to the line; it was recommended the pole be moved.
#Denbighshire
3 fatalities, 5 injuries.
On 12/12/1912 track worker TC Billington was filling ballast on the lines at Croes Newydd. He was hit by a train, suffering injuries to his head & back, but surviving.
3 fatalities, 5 injuries.
On 12/12/1912 track worker TC Billington was filling ballast on the lines at Croes Newydd. He was hit by a train, suffering injuries to his head & back, but surviving.
#Flintshire
2 fatalities, 8 injuries.
On 28/9/1912 porter guard John Parry, 24, was injured near Llanfynydd, crushed between wagon and shed wall as he tried to apply the brake.
More cases in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
2 fatalities, 8 injuries.
On 28/9/1912 porter guard John Parry, 24, was injured near Llanfynydd, crushed between wagon and shed wall as he tried to apply the brake.
More cases in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
#Glamorgan
19 fatalities, 63 injuries
A look at the concentration of lines & the types of traffic in the county explains why so high.
Lots of companies, track miles & minerals & freight, involving shunting: always dangerous.
More in our free database: http://railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
19 fatalities, 63 injuries
A look at the concentration of lines & the types of traffic in the county explains why so high.
Lots of companies, track miles & minerals & freight, involving shunting: always dangerous.
More in our free database: http://railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
#Merioneth
1 fatality, 7 injuries.
On 18/10/1911 fireman Robert Broad was exchanging the single line staff at Drws-y-nant. Something went wrong & he fell under his train, injuring his head & losing his left leg.
Sadly he could have exchanged the staff when the train stopped.
1 fatality, 7 injuries.
On 18/10/1911 fireman Robert Broad was exchanging the single line staff at Drws-y-nant. Something went wrong & he fell under his train, injuring his head & losing his left leg.
Sadly he could have exchanged the staff when the train stopped.
#Monmouthshire
6 fatalities, 14 injuries
On 1/11/1911 fireman John Price was climbing aboard his engine at Severn Tunnel Junction. He put his foot on the buffer spindle, which was at that moment compressed, crushing his 3 toes of his left foot.
6 fatalities, 14 injuries
On 1/11/1911 fireman John Price was climbing aboard his engine at Severn Tunnel Junction. He put his foot on the buffer spindle, which was at that moment compressed, crushing his 3 toes of his left foot.
#Montgomeryshire
2 injuries - incl 1 for #DisabilityHistoryMonth, when on 17/8/1911 fireman Price Harris, 29, injured his right hand at #Pontdolgoch.
He was trying to exchange the single line tablet with station master Stanbury, who had lost his right arm.
2 injuries - incl 1 for #DisabilityHistoryMonth, when on 17/8/1911 fireman Price Harris, 29, injured his right hand at #Pontdolgoch.
He was trying to exchange the single line tablet with station master Stanbury, who had lost his right arm.
#Newport
2 fatalities, 12 injuries
On 1/8/1912 fireman Wilfred Hamblett had his right side injured when we was knocked off his engine's bunker by an overbridge. He'd been up breaking up coal when the loco was moved off.
2 fatalities, 12 injuries
On 1/8/1912 fireman Wilfred Hamblett had his right side injured when we was knocked off his engine's bunker by an overbridge. He'd been up breaking up coal when the loco was moved off.
#Pembrokeshire
1 fatality, 2 injuries.
On 6/5/1913 shunter Richard Davies had his abdomen & back injured at #Milford Docks.
He was trying to put a prop between engine & wagon when he slipped & was caught between them.
Img: (c) @railwaymuseum
1 fatality, 2 injuries.
On 6/5/1913 shunter Richard Davies had his abdomen & back injured at #Milford Docks.
He was trying to put a prop between engine & wagon when he slipped & was caught between them.
Img: (c) @railwaymuseum
#Radnorshire
1 injury, reflecting its rural nature.
On 20/6/1911 ballast guard Rees Thomas was shunting at Builth Road. He went between a loco & wagons to couple but was caught, injuring his back & chest.
1 injury, reflecting its rural nature.
On 20/6/1911 ballast guard Rees Thomas was shunting at Builth Road. He went between a loco & wagons to couple but was caught, injuring his back & chest.
#Swansea
1 death, 14 injuries.
On 14/5/1913 Harold Elford, 16, was working inside a wagon when another hit it. A door closed on him, injuring his back & chest.
And that's the last of the Welsh cases. On to Scotland next!
1 death, 14 injuries.
On 14/5/1913 Harold Elford, 16, was working inside a wagon when another hit it. A door closed on him, injuring his back & chest.
And that's the last of the Welsh cases. On to Scotland next!
SCOTLAND
Lots to cover here, sadly: 155 fatalities, 745 injuries, a total of 700 cases, starting with
#Aberdeenshire
9 deaths, 44 injuries
2 of those injuries were to one man, J Anderson, at #Kittybrewster.
Read more in this blog post: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/further-july-multiples/
Lots to cover here, sadly: 155 fatalities, 745 injuries, a total of 700 cases, starting with
#Aberdeenshire
9 deaths, 44 injuries
2 of those injuries were to one man, J Anderson, at #Kittybrewster.
Read more in this blog post: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/further-july-multiples/
#Ayrshire
12 deaths, 31 injuries
On 28/11/1912 track worker David Sheach was killed at #Stewarton.
He moved away from 1 train, but didn't see the other 1.
He was 75 - quite old for heavy manual work.
All cases in our free database: http://railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@AyrshireArchive
12 deaths, 31 injuries
On 28/11/1912 track worker David Sheach was killed at #Stewarton.
He moved away from 1 train, but didn't see the other 1.
He was 75 - quite old for heavy manual work.
All cases in our free database: http://railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@AyrshireArchive
#Banffshire
6 injuries, 4 of them occurring in #Keith.
On 25/12/1911 - happy Christmas(!) - goods porter J Anderson, 20, was coupling wagons at Keith.
He was caught between buffers, bruising his shoulder, side & arm.
@AbdnArchives @anesfhs
6 injuries, 4 of them occurring in #Keith.
On 25/12/1911 - happy Christmas(!) - goods porter J Anderson, 20, was coupling wagons at Keith.
He was caught between buffers, bruising his shoulder, side & arm.
@AbdnArchives @anesfhs
#Berwickshire
1 death, 1 injury
On 11/11/1911 goods guard G Marshall was moving wagons at #Chirnside. He attached a rope to a loop on the side of 1, got the engine to pull them along.
The loop failed & Marshall was hit on the right arm, which was bruised.
1 death, 1 injury
On 11/11/1911 goods guard G Marshall was moving wagons at #Chirnside. He attached a rope to a loop on the side of 1, got the engine to pull them along.
The loop failed & Marshall was hit on the right arm, which was bruised.
#Caithness
1 injury.
On 27/9/1911 foreman porter D Taylor was shunting at Georgemas. Riding on a wagon axlebox, he hit a platform edge, crushing his pelvis between platform & wagon.
The inspector recommended riding on axleboxes should be banned; he'd said this in 1908, too.
1 injury.
On 27/9/1911 foreman porter D Taylor was shunting at Georgemas. Riding on a wagon axlebox, he hit a platform edge, crushing his pelvis between platform & wagon.
The inspector recommended riding on axleboxes should be banned; he'd said this in 1908, too.
#Clackmannanshire
2 injuries.
#OnThisDay 1914 lampman Thomas Ramsay, 21, was learning the ropes to be a porter-guard in #Alloa.
He failed to apply the brakes in time, meaning his train hit stock on the line. He hit his head during the impact, cutting it.
2 injuries.
#OnThisDay 1914 lampman Thomas Ramsay, 21, was learning the ropes to be a porter-guard in #Alloa.
He failed to apply the brakes in time, meaning his train hit stock on the line. He hit his head during the impact, cutting it.
#Dunbartonshire
1 case only: on 29/9/1911 brakesman David Dixon had his right leg bruised & grazed at #Dalmuir.
It was caught between the buffer & its housing when two parts of the train came together.
@WDCHeritage @ScotsArchives
1 case only: on 29/9/1911 brakesman David Dixon had his right leg bruised & grazed at #Dalmuir.
It was caught between the buffer & its housing when two parts of the train came together.
@WDCHeritage @ScotsArchives
#Dumfriesshire
4 fatalities, 9 injuries
On 11/1/1913 greaser J Butler, 61, had his head cut & bruised at #Dumfries. He was hit by the door of an empty wagon - the pins hadn't been used to secure it. Goods guard W Muirhead was held responsible.
4 fatalities, 9 injuries
On 11/1/1913 greaser J Butler, 61, had his head cut & bruised at #Dumfries. He was hit by the door of an empty wagon - the pins hadn't been used to secure it. Goods guard W Muirhead was held responsible.
#Elgin
2 deaths, 6 injuries
On 15/9/1913 porter James Fraser, 18, was helping with horse shunting at #Lossiemouth docks. He was knocked off the side of the dock by the horse chain; fortunately he only bruised his knee.
More cases in our free database of 6,500 accidents!
2 deaths, 6 injuries
On 15/9/1913 porter James Fraser, 18, was helping with horse shunting at #Lossiemouth docks. He was knocked off the side of the dock by the horse chain; fortunately he only bruised his knee.
More cases in our free database of 6,500 accidents!
#Fife
Scotland's 3rd most dangerous county (sort of): 15 deaths, 39 injuries.
On 5/12/1914 5 painters were at work on planks hung from #Kirkcaldy station roof when the structure gave way; 4 fell - but survived.
More details from our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
Scotland's 3rd most dangerous county (sort of): 15 deaths, 39 injuries.
On 5/12/1914 5 painters were at work on planks hung from #Kirkcaldy station roof when the structure gave way; 4 fell - but survived.
More details from our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
We interrupt this thread with a news(ish) flash - our new project data is live!
Over 2,000 trades union legal cases, many involving accidents, across the UK and Ireland, 1901-05: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/new-dataset-asrs-legal-cases-1901-1905/
Normal service on this thread will be resumed shortly!
Over 2,000 trades union legal cases, many involving accidents, across the UK and Ireland, 1901-05: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/new-dataset-asrs-legal-cases-1901-1905/
Normal service on this thread will be resumed shortly!
What's fun is we can follow #Fife with #Forfar - channelling our inner football commentator!
Sadly still a toll: 6 fatal, 22 injuries for 1911-15 alone.
On 12/3/1915 night watchman Wm Robertson, 69, was hit by a train at #Arbroath & dragged along the track. He survived.
Sadly still a toll: 6 fatal, 22 injuries for 1911-15 alone.
On 12/3/1915 night watchman Wm Robertson, 69, was hit by a train at #Arbroath & dragged along the track. He survived.
#Haddington
1 fatality, 4 injuries
On 7/5/1912 fireman G Gunn, 21, went on top of the tender of his engine at #Drem to open the water tank lid - but hit an overbridge & fell to the track.
His head was cut & shoulder bruised.
1 fatality, 4 injuries
On 7/5/1912 fireman G Gunn, 21, went on top of the tender of his engine at #Drem to open the water tank lid - but hit an overbridge & fell to the track.
His head was cut & shoulder bruised.
#Inverness-shire
1 fatal, 9 injuries
On 19/3/1913 J Murray & W Fraser were injured when thrown to the track between Moy & Tomatin. The wagon they were in was bumped.
Find all the cases in our free database of railway staff accidents: http://railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@HLHArchives
1 fatal, 9 injuries
On 19/3/1913 J Murray & W Fraser were injured when thrown to the track between Moy & Tomatin. The wagon they were in was bumped.
Find all the cases in our free database of railway staff accidents: http://railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@HLHArchives
#Kincardineshire
1 fatal, 1 injury
On 26/2/1915 labourer James Campbell was loading a wagon at Lochburn. He put his foot on a buffer; when a wagon hit it, it compressed, crushing his left foot.
The report said a look-out man should have been appointed.
@AbdnArchives @anesfhs
1 fatal, 1 injury
On 26/2/1915 labourer James Campbell was loading a wagon at Lochburn. He put his foot on a buffer; when a wagon hit it, it compressed, crushing his left foot.
The report said a look-out man should have been appointed.
@AbdnArchives @anesfhs
#Kinross-shire
3 injuries.
On 24/3/1911 track worker J McGregor, 59, had his face & back bruised.
Walking beside the line at #Kinross, he fell after the pick he was carrying over his shoulder was hit by a train from behind.
Over 700 more Scottish cases in our free database!
3 injuries.
On 24/3/1911 track worker J McGregor, 59, had his face & back bruised.
Walking beside the line at #Kinross, he fell after the pick he was carrying over his shoulder was hit by a train from behind.
Over 700 more Scottish cases in our free database!
#Kirkcudbrightshire
3 injuries.
On 1/4/1913 track worker James Morrison was hit by a train at Woodhead overbridge. His right arm was broken in 2 places.
He wasn't given sufficient warning of the train's approach; & the loco crew were driving too fast.
3 injuries.
On 1/4/1913 track worker James Morrison was hit by a train at Woodhead overbridge. His right arm was broken in 2 places.
He wasn't given sufficient warning of the train's approach; & the loco crew were driving too fast.
#Lanarkshire
This is the big one for Scotland - no doubt as it captured much of Glasgow:
54 deaths, 184 injuries
Just over 1/3 of the total cases for Scotland in our database.
Find them all, free, here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
& a blog about 1 case: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/do-as-i-say-not-as-i-do/
This is the big one for Scotland - no doubt as it captured much of Glasgow:
54 deaths, 184 injuries
Just over 1/3 of the total cases for Scotland in our database.
Find them all, free, here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
& a blog about 1 case: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/do-as-i-say-not-as-i-do/
#Linlithgow
7 fatal, 14 injuries
At Bo'ness, on 8/1/1911 fireman A Heath, 19, went on to a loco's frame to clean the smokebox.
The loco was moved; Heath clung on - for 15 minutes, until his foot slipped just as buffers came together, crushing his toes, breaking 1 & bruising 1.
7 fatal, 14 injuries
At Bo'ness, on 8/1/1911 fireman A Heath, 19, went on to a loco's frame to clean the smokebox.
The loco was moved; Heath clung on - for 15 minutes, until his foot slipped just as buffers came together, crushing his toes, breaking 1 & bruising 1.
#Midlothian
15 fatalities, 87 injuries - the influence of Edinburgh, no doubt.
Concealed amongst the numbers is 1 of the cases in our database of an accident to a woman railway worker, along with a colleague.
Read more in our blog post: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/dying-to-save-her-life/
15 fatalities, 87 injuries - the influence of Edinburgh, no doubt.
Concealed amongst the numbers is 1 of the cases in our database of an accident to a woman railway worker, along with a colleague.
Read more in our blog post: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/dying-to-save-her-life/
#Nairnshire
Just the 1 injury - always a nice position to be in!
On 1/8/1911 pointsman J Mitchell was uncoupling coaches at #Nairn. He went between them, but was caught between gangways, bruising his left shoulder.
More from: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@GurnNurn @HLHArchives
Just the 1 injury - always a nice position to be in!
On 1/8/1911 pointsman J Mitchell was uncoupling coaches at #Nairn. He went between them, but was caught between gangways, bruising his left shoulder.
More from: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@GurnNurn @HLHArchives
#Perthshire
9 fatal, 15 injuries
It has the dubious honour of having the first 2 cases in our database, in a single incident:
On 19/1/1911 Wm McBeth & Peter McLeish were hit by a train & killed near #Blackford. They were trying to stand clear of a train on the other line.
9 fatal, 15 injuries
It has the dubious honour of having the first 2 cases in our database, in a single incident:
On 19/1/1911 Wm McBeth & Peter McLeish were hit by a train & killed near #Blackford. They were trying to stand clear of a train on the other line.
#Renfrewshire:
10 fatal; 17 injured
On 12/2/1915 foreman goods porter Arthur Thornton, 48, at #Potterhill was coupling wagons. Shunting pole hook came off the link & his hand was caught between buffers - whole hand bruised, thumb crushed & 1 finger broken.
10 fatal; 17 injured
On 12/2/1915 foreman goods porter Arthur Thornton, 48, at #Potterhill was coupling wagons. Shunting pole hook came off the link & his hand was caught between buffers - whole hand bruised, thumb crushed & 1 finger broken.
#Ross & Cromarty
Just the 1 injury: on 2/6/1913 craneman C Grant got off the crane wagon he was working on at #Invergordon before it stopped moving, overbalanced & the wheels ran over his arm.
Unbelievably, he suffered cuts & only lost 1 finger. Lucky man!
Just the 1 injury: on 2/6/1913 craneman C Grant got off the crane wagon he was working on at #Invergordon before it stopped moving, overbalanced & the wheels ran over his arm.
Unbelievably, he suffered cuts & only lost 1 finger. Lucky man!
#Roxburghshire
4 injuries.
On 15/2/1912 wagon examiner P Johnston, 32, was examining a wagon in #Hawick goods shed. He put a foot on the buffer spindle, but as wagons closed up, his left foot was pinched & bruised.
Just 1 of the nearly 6,500 cases in our free database!
4 injuries.
On 15/2/1912 wagon examiner P Johnston, 32, was examining a wagon in #Hawick goods shed. He put a foot on the buffer spindle, but as wagons closed up, his left foot was pinched & bruised.
Just 1 of the nearly 6,500 cases in our free database!
#Stirlingshire
7 fatal, 31 injuries
On 10/1/1911 goods guard J Anderson, 43, was injured at Camelon. His right side was bruised when caught between a wagon & building.
It wouldn't have happened if the wagon had brakes on both sides - an old complaint by 1911.
7 fatal, 31 injuries
On 10/1/1911 goods guard J Anderson, 43, was injured at Camelon. His right side was bruised when caught between a wagon & building.
It wouldn't have happened if the wagon had brakes on both sides - an old complaint by 1911.
#Sutherland
1 fatality, 1 injury
On 1/1/1913, driver D MacLeod was injured at #Helmsdale. Whilst in the space between two lines attending to his engine's axle boxes he was hit by a loco on the adjacent line. Fortunately only a sprain to his back.
1 fatality, 1 injury
On 1/1/1913, driver D MacLeod was injured at #Helmsdale. Whilst in the space between two lines attending to his engine's axle boxes he was hit by a loco on the adjacent line. Fortunately only a sprain to his back.
#Wigtownshire
2 injuries
On 19/7/1911 fireman Alexander Baird, 22, had the toes on his left foot pinched at #Dunragit.
Walking on the loco's frames, he tried to uncouple a van from the engine ... using his foot. The coupling tightened, pinching his toes.
Mmm, hmm. Really.
2 injuries
On 19/7/1911 fireman Alexander Baird, 22, had the toes on his left foot pinched at #Dunragit.
Walking on the loco's frames, he tried to uncouple a van from the engine ... using his foot. The coupling tightened, pinching his toes.
Mmm, hmm. Really.
And that's your lot, #Scotland!
On to our final nation now - #England.
544 deaths & 2274 injuries.
Why so many more than other contries?
Geography plays a part: these cases were probably close to the railway inspctors. Did they take local cases over those further afield?
On to our final nation now - #England.
544 deaths & 2274 injuries.
Why so many more than other contries?
Geography plays a part: these cases were probably close to the railway inspctors. Did they take local cases over those further afield?
We start with: #Bedfordshire
6 fatal, 5 injuries
On 18/2/1913 casual goods porter Thomas Springthorpe, 22, was working at #Luton. He was between lines attaching invoices to wagons at night.
He was hit by an approaching engine & thrown under the train as it moved off. He died.
6 fatal, 5 injuries
On 18/2/1913 casual goods porter Thomas Springthorpe, 22, was working at #Luton. He was between lines attaching invoices to wagons at night.
He was hit by an approaching engine & thrown under the train as it moved off. He died.
#Berkshire
1 fatal, 6 injuries - all at #Reading
We've blogged about 1 of those injuries - driver Walter Rudman, hurt trying to help his colleagues regain control of runaway wagons:
http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/reading-goods/
Find all the cases in our free database!
@BerksArchives
1 fatal, 6 injuries - all at #Reading
We've blogged about 1 of those injuries - driver Walter Rudman, hurt trying to help his colleagues regain control of runaway wagons:
http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/reading-goods/
Find all the cases in our free database!
@BerksArchives
#Bristol
4 deaths, 18 injuries - a few of them at #Avonmouth Docks.
On 5/5/1911 Ernest Ford was unloading goods at Bristol. Wagons running under gravity struck the 1 he was working in; a case to fall on him, injuring his left leg.
@bristolarchives
Map 1914 from Wikipedia
4 deaths, 18 injuries - a few of them at #Avonmouth Docks.
On 5/5/1911 Ernest Ford was unloading goods at Bristol. Wagons running under gravity struck the 1 he was working in; a case to fall on him, injuring his left leg.
@bristolarchives
Map 1914 from Wikipedia
#Buckinghamshire
5 fatal, 8 injuries
On 11/5/1911, William Matthews & James Mead were working together near #Wolverton. Matthews was to die, but Mead survived.
Read more about it here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/histories-of-medical-humanities-and-attitudes-examining-class-and-shock-via-the-accident-reports/
5 fatal, 8 injuries
On 11/5/1911, William Matthews & James Mead were working together near #Wolverton. Matthews was to die, but Mead survived.
Read more about it here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/histories-of-medical-humanities-and-attitudes-examining-class-and-shock-via-the-accident-reports/
#Cambridgeshire
5 fatal, 46 injuries
On 5/9/1912 William Rhodes was at #Chatteris, standing on a lorry, unloading goods from a wagon. As other wagons nudged it, he fell, bruising his face & spraining his left arm.
Find them all in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
5 fatal, 46 injuries
On 5/9/1912 William Rhodes was at #Chatteris, standing on a lorry, unloading goods from a wagon. As other wagons nudged it, he fell, bruising his face & spraining his left arm.
Find them all in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
#Cheshire
16 fatal, 57 injuries
On 20/1/1914 driver Timothy Sherlock, 68, fell into an ash pit at #Hooton engine shed.
The railway company was found responsible - quite an unusual outcome for the time.
Find all cases in our free database: http://railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@CheshireRO
16 fatal, 57 injuries
On 20/1/1914 driver Timothy Sherlock, 68, fell into an ash pit at #Hooton engine shed.
The railway company was found responsible - quite an unusual outcome for the time.
Find all cases in our free database: http://railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@CheshireRO
#Cornwall
2 deaths, 6 injuries
On 27/9/1913 nr Perranwell driver Algar noticed fireman Harold Tregaskis wasn't on the loco.
Algar stopped the train & searched the line, finding Tregaskis' body; he died of head injuries.
More cases from: http://www.railwayccidents.port.ac.uk
@kresenkernow
2 deaths, 6 injuries
On 27/9/1913 nr Perranwell driver Algar noticed fireman Harold Tregaskis wasn't on the loco.
Algar stopped the train & searched the line, finding Tregaskis' body; he died of head injuries.
More cases from: http://www.railwayccidents.port.ac.uk
@kresenkernow
#Cumberland
9 deaths, 53 injuries
On 9/6/1915 engine cleaner William Forster, 14, was crushed between buffers at #Carlisle loco yard.
Fortunately he was only injured, but his inexperience was blamed. He was only 14, after all ...
@CumbriaArchives @cumberlandroots
9 deaths, 53 injuries
On 9/6/1915 engine cleaner William Forster, 14, was crushed between buffers at #Carlisle loco yard.
Fortunately he was only injured, but his inexperience was blamed. He was only 14, after all ...
@CumbriaArchives @cumberlandroots
#Derbyshire
20 fatal, 48 injuries
On 13/9/1913 Arthur Hadfield was injured near ... #Hadfield, of all places!
He jumped from his brake van when his train ran into buffers.
Find all accidents in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@FranklinArchive @DerbyshireLibs
20 fatal, 48 injuries
On 13/9/1913 Arthur Hadfield was injured near ... #Hadfield, of all places!
He jumped from his brake van when his train ran into buffers.
Find all accidents in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@FranklinArchive @DerbyshireLibs
#Devon
9 fatalities, 34 injuries
Cases included 4 men, all riding a runaway wagon down the incline between #Bratton & #Chelfham on the Lynton & Barnstaple railway.
Read more here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/4-men-atop-a-runaway-train/
@DevonHeritage @Barum_Athena @BarumMuseum @barumhistory
9 fatalities, 34 injuries
Cases included 4 men, all riding a runaway wagon down the incline between #Bratton & #Chelfham on the Lynton & Barnstaple railway.
Read more here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/4-men-atop-a-runaway-train/
@DevonHeritage @Barum_Athena @BarumMuseum @barumhistory
#Dorset
2 fatalities, 11 injuries
On 20/12/1911 driver R Broom was under his loco, oiling it, at #Dorchester shed. It was hit by another engine, & Broom was crushed by a connecting rod. He died.
All cases in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@DorsetArchives @TheSDFHS
2 fatalities, 11 injuries
On 20/12/1911 driver R Broom was under his loco, oiling it, at #Dorchester shed. It was hit by another engine, & Broom was crushed by a connecting rod. He died.
All cases in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@DorsetArchives @TheSDFHS
#Durham
32 fatal, 180 injuries
Lots to do with goods movement & dock working, including this case in which runaway wagons partially demolished an office!
http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/practically-demolished-how-not-to-rebuild-your-office/
Find all the cases in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
32 fatal, 180 injuries
Lots to do with goods movement & dock working, including this case in which runaway wagons partially demolished an office!
http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/practically-demolished-how-not-to-rebuild-your-office/
Find all the cases in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
#Essex
19 fatal, 59 injuries
On 3/2/1911 Joseph Snow, 24, was working in Temple Mills sidings, London.
No-one saw what happened, but it seems he fell between moving wagons, was run over & died.
His case & many more in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@essexarchive
19 fatal, 59 injuries
On 3/2/1911 Joseph Snow, 24, was working in Temple Mills sidings, London.
No-one saw what happened, but it seems he fell between moving wagons, was run over & died.
His case & many more in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
@essexarchive
#Gloucestershire
6 fatal, 13 injuries
On 17/1/1913 cleaners Jack Nottingham (14) & Sydney Coleman (19) were killed at #Cheltenham.
They were walking alongside tracks but hit by an engine & crushed between the train & bridge.
Coleman had only been employed for 11 days.
6 fatal, 13 injuries
On 17/1/1913 cleaners Jack Nottingham (14) & Sydney Coleman (19) were killed at #Cheltenham.
They were walking alongside tracks but hit by an engine & crushed between the train & bridge.
Coleman had only been employed for 11 days.
#Hampshire - one of our project's homeplaces!
6 fatal, 33 injuries
On 2/11/1911 Edward Prior tripped & fell at #Gosport station, injuring his back.
Find out more: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/a-decade-on-the-trips-continue/
Just 1 of the cases found in our free database of historic accidents to railway staff.
6 fatal, 33 injuries
On 2/11/1911 Edward Prior tripped & fell at #Gosport station, injuring his back.
Find out more: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/a-decade-on-the-trips-continue/
Just 1 of the cases found in our free database of historic accidents to railway staff.
#Herefordshire
1 fatal, 2 injuries
Presumably more rural, less traffic & so fewer accidents.
On 10/8/1912 shunter Arthur Carver died at #Ross. Riding on loco footstep he saw he would be crushed by a wagon & so jumped - but was believed to hit his head on the wagon.
1 fatal, 2 injuries
Presumably more rural, less traffic & so fewer accidents.
On 10/8/1912 shunter Arthur Carver died at #Ross. Riding on loco footstep he saw he would be crushed by a wagon & so jumped - but was believed to hit his head on the wagon.
#Hertfordshire
6 fatal, 17 injuries
On 23/9/1912 George Parcell was oiling points with a colleague at #Hitchin during foggy weather. A goods train reversed back & hit him. His right arm was amputated.
Investigated decided the workers should have had a colleague to watch out.
6 fatal, 17 injuries
On 23/9/1912 George Parcell was oiling points with a colleague at #Hitchin during foggy weather. A goods train reversed back & hit him. His right arm was amputated.
Investigated decided the workers should have had a colleague to watch out.
#Huntingdonshire
1 fatal, 4 injuries
On 30/6/1913 porter David Smith, 24, tried to jump on a passing guard's van at #Holme.
He slipped & fell between the wagons & platform. His left arm had to be amputated.
His case & all others in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
1 fatal, 4 injuries
On 30/6/1913 porter David Smith, 24, tried to jump on a passing guard's van at #Holme.
He slipped & fell between the wagons & platform. His left arm had to be amputated.
His case & all others in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
Back now following the digital picket during the @ucu strikes ... thanks for bearing with us!
#Kent
15 deaths, 22 injuries
On 11/1/1911 marine porter George Bond broke his left arm & bruised left leg at Queenborogh Pier. He was caught in a capstan rope - wrapped by 12 coils.
#Kent
15 deaths, 22 injuries
On 11/1/1911 marine porter George Bond broke his left arm & bruised left leg at Queenborogh Pier. He was caught in a capstan rope - wrapped by 12 coils.
#Lancashire
80 deaths, 450 injuries
2nd highest county total in our existing dataset. Reflects large quantities of goods & minerals being moved.
Not sure if Lancastrians will be pleased or disappointed that the 1st highest total is a rival neighbour beginning with 'Y' ...
80 deaths, 450 injuries
2nd highest county total in our existing dataset. Reflects large quantities of goods & minerals being moved.
Not sure if Lancastrians will be pleased or disappointed that the 1st highest total is a rival neighbour beginning with 'Y' ...
That includes the case of platform porter E Collen, who had a luck escape under a train at #Bury Bolton St in 1913!
‘dropping on his face he allowed the train to pass over him.’
Read more in this blog post:
http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/a-lucky-escape-and-a-relief/
#Lancashire
‘dropping on his face he allowed the train to pass over him.’
Read more in this blog post:
http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/a-lucky-escape-and-a-relief/
#Lancashire
#Leicestershire
11 deaths, 26 injuries
1 of those 1 injuries & deaths was the same man: the unfortunate George Lewis, a porter who had 2 accidents at Leicester in 1913.
Read more here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/not-learning-from-past-experience-with-fatal-consequences/
11 deaths, 26 injuries
1 of those 1 injuries & deaths was the same man: the unfortunate George Lewis, a porter who had 2 accidents at Leicester in 1913.
Read more here: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/not-learning-from-past-experience-with-fatal-consequences/
#Lincolnshire
8 deaths, 62 injuries
On 22/2/1911 farmer David Bellaney, 78, injured his left hip at #Haxey. He fell to floor when a wagon door he was standing on was moved by another wagon.
The oldest case we have - & shows it's not only railway staff in our free database!
8 deaths, 62 injuries
On 22/2/1911 farmer David Bellaney, 78, injured his left hip at #Haxey. He fell to floor when a wagon door he was standing on was moved by another wagon.
The oldest case we have - & shows it's not only railway staff in our free database!
#Middlesex
58 deaths, 146 injuries
With so many routes into London, it's not surprising numbers are so high.
For 2 deaths, 2 days apart, at the same location, see this blog post: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/history-repeating-itself-same-location-same-accident-same-outcome-2-days-apart/
Find all the other cases in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
58 deaths, 146 injuries
With so many routes into London, it's not surprising numbers are so high.
For 2 deaths, 2 days apart, at the same location, see this blog post: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/history-repeating-itself-same-location-same-accident-same-outcome-2-days-apart/
Find all the other cases in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
#Norfolk
4 deaths, 44 injuries
On 24/5/1912 shunter William Edmonds, 42, was riding on the footstep of a brake van in #Norwich when his cap blew off.
He tried to grab it, but leaned out too far, & his head hit a telegraph pole, injuring his scalp.
4 deaths, 44 injuries
On 24/5/1912 shunter William Edmonds, 42, was riding on the footstep of a brake van in #Norwich when his cap blew off.
He tried to grab it, but leaned out too far, & his head hit a telegraph pole, injuring his scalp.
#Northamptonshire
5 deaths, 16 injuries
On 19/10/1914 goods guard Thomas Patrick dislocated his right shoulder at #Wellingborough, trying to couple wagons.
His was a hard job; Patrick was 70. A reminder that people had to keep working when there was limited social security.
5 deaths, 16 injuries
On 19/10/1914 goods guard Thomas Patrick dislocated his right shoulder at #Wellingborough, trying to couple wagons.
His was a hard job; Patrick was 70. A reminder that people had to keep working when there was limited social security.
#Northumberland
11 deaths, 84 injuries - #Newcastle features heavily.
On 19/5/1915 casual labourer RF Hall was standing on a wagon drop door, propped up, at Northumberland Dock's tar yard.
The prop was knocked out by a barrel & he fell to the ground, twisting his right knee.
11 deaths, 84 injuries - #Newcastle features heavily.
On 19/5/1915 casual labourer RF Hall was standing on a wagon drop door, propped up, at Northumberland Dock's tar yard.
The prop was knocked out by a barrel & he fell to the ground, twisting his right knee.
#Nottinghamshire
14 deaths, 51 injuries
On 7/1/1911 platelayer William Smith was injured in Mansfield Rd tunnel in #Nottingham, hit by a train in a dark & steamy environment.
On 31/1/1911 the same thing happened to Samuel Richards. Tunnel working was clearly dangerous.
14 deaths, 51 injuries
On 7/1/1911 platelayer William Smith was injured in Mansfield Rd tunnel in #Nottingham, hit by a train in a dark & steamy environment.
On 31/1/1911 the same thing happened to Samuel Richards. Tunnel working was clearly dangerous.
#Oxfordshire
1 death, 3 injuries
Another one with relative few cases so far, tho' no doubt more to come as we extend the project.
On 2/9/1911 goods guard Frederick Ruddle injured his chest at #Didcot, falling against his guard's van sand box when van was moved by an engine.
1 death, 3 injuries
Another one with relative few cases so far, tho' no doubt more to come as we extend the project.
On 2/9/1911 goods guard Frederick Ruddle injured his chest at #Didcot, falling against his guard's van sand box when van was moved by an engine.
#Rutland
1 death, 2 injuries (but then it is a teeny county!)
On 13/1/1913 platelayer Richard Green was hit the a loco as he crossed the track near #Manton.
He should have been clearing snow from the points but had been to sweep the signal wires clean.
1 death, 2 injuries (but then it is a teeny county!)
On 13/1/1913 platelayer Richard Green was hit the a loco as he crossed the track near #Manton.
He should have been clearing snow from the points but had been to sweep the signal wires clean.
#Shropshire
3 deaths, 11 injuries
On 30/11/1911 Thomas Wynn was repairing a wagon in a rake of wagons at Oswestry. When more were coupled he was crushed, injuring his ribs, left shoulder & arm.
These cases & more in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
3 deaths, 11 injuries
On 30/11/1911 Thomas Wynn was repairing a wagon in a rake of wagons at Oswestry. When more were coupled he was crushed, injuring his ribs, left shoulder & arm.
These cases & more in our free database: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
#Somerset
3 deaths, 22 injuries
On 8/8/1911 labourer J Dyke was struck on the leg at #Taunton by a capstan hook which became detached from a wagon. He died (presumably from blood poisoning). The capstan was powered by a shaft powered by a belt run from a nearby building.
3 deaths, 22 injuries
On 8/8/1911 labourer J Dyke was struck on the leg at #Taunton by a capstan hook which became detached from a wagon. He died (presumably from blood poisoning). The capstan was powered by a shaft powered by a belt run from a nearby building.
#Staffordshire
17 deaths, 48 injuries
On 4/5/1911 painter Benjamin Cullwick was working on a footbridge at Princes End. The ladder he was on was hit by a passenger train. Cullwick fell onto the track & died.
17 deaths, 48 injuries
On 4/5/1911 painter Benjamin Cullwick was working on a footbridge at Princes End. The ladder he was on was hit by a passenger train. Cullwick fell onto the track & died.
#Suffolk
6 deaths, 26 injuries
On 9/2/1911 James Stiff, bricklayer's assistant, was injured at #Ipswich loco shed. Putting a new brick into a loco's brick arch, he was thrown down into the firebox when the engine was hit by another.
Img c.1930s (c) @railwaymuseum
6 deaths, 26 injuries
On 9/2/1911 James Stiff, bricklayer's assistant, was injured at #Ipswich loco shed. Putting a new brick into a loco's brick arch, he was thrown down into the firebox when the engine was hit by another.
Img c.1930s (c) @railwaymuseum
#Surrey
45 deaths, 70 injuries - no doubt influenced by proximity to London.
5 of these (3 fatal) were involved in just 1 case, in #Battersea in 1911. Read more in this blog post: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/19-january-1911-a-bad-day-on-the-permanent-way/
Img c.1923 (c) @railwaymuseum
45 deaths, 70 injuries - no doubt influenced by proximity to London.
5 of these (3 fatal) were involved in just 1 case, in #Battersea in 1911. Read more in this blog post: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/19-january-1911-a-bad-day-on-the-permanent-way/
Img c.1923 (c) @railwaymuseum
#Sussex
9 deaths, 32 injuries
At The Dyke station on 29/5/1915, around 2 yrs before the station was temporarily closed, porter Arthur Randall, 17, was crushed between the buffers of stock he was attempting to couple together. He suffered internal injuries.
9 deaths, 32 injuries
At The Dyke station on 29/5/1915, around 2 yrs before the station was temporarily closed, porter Arthur Randall, 17, was crushed between the buffers of stock he was attempting to couple together. He suffered internal injuries.
#Warwickshire
16 deaths, 43 injuries
On 7/7/1914 W Hodson was painting #Tylesley station building. His ladder was propped between the platform & tracks - predictably it was hit by a 'motor train' & Hodson was thrown off. Luckily he only injured his left side.
16 deaths, 43 injuries
On 7/7/1914 W Hodson was painting #Tylesley station building. His ladder was propped between the platform & tracks - predictably it was hit by a 'motor train' & Hodson was thrown off. Luckily he only injured his left side.
#Westmorland
Only 3 injuries - reflecting the county's rugged nature & relative lack of railways.
On 6/7/1914 signalman James Wilkinson, 62, was exchanging a single line staff with a fireman. The staff hit him on the forehead & cut him. The train was exceeding the 10mph limit.
Only 3 injuries - reflecting the county's rugged nature & relative lack of railways.
On 6/7/1914 signalman James Wilkinson, 62, was exchanging a single line staff with a fireman. The staff hit him on the forehead & cut him. The train was exceeding the 10mph limit.
#Wiltshire
6 deaths, 9 injuries
On 16/4/1911 Walter Fry was injured at #Tisbury while shunting - using a horse.
Find out more about how the horse was a mainstay of railway work deep into the 20th century & its dangers in this post:
http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/steam-vs-horse-power/
6 deaths, 9 injuries
On 16/4/1911 Walter Fry was injured at #Tisbury while shunting - using a horse.
Find out more about how the horse was a mainstay of railway work deep into the 20th century & its dangers in this post:
http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/steam-vs-horse-power/
#Worcestershire
5 deaths, 15 injuries
On 14/11/1914 porter shunter Alfred Scarlett, 51, tried to get on a loco's footstep at #Albion. He slipped & his right leg was run over; he gave the accident investigators a statement about it before he died on 20/11/1914.
5 deaths, 15 injuries
On 14/11/1914 porter shunter Alfred Scarlett, 51, tried to get on a loco's footstep at #Albion. He slipped & his right leg was run over; he gave the accident investigators a statement about it before he died on 20/11/1914.
#Yorkshire
Last but certainly not least ... in fact: most. The greatest number of casualties in our database for ANY county in the UK & Ireland.
76 deaths, 489 injuries
2 examples, linked by 1 man: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/1-man-10-days-2-injuries-to-colleagues/
Last but certainly not least ... in fact: most. The greatest number of casualties in our database for ANY county in the UK & Ireland.
76 deaths, 489 injuries
2 examples, linked by 1 man: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk/1-man-10-days-2-injuries-to-colleagues/
And that's the end of the thread!
Hopefully it's been interesting & useful. All the info comes from our free database of accidents to railway staff: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
We're expanding it all the time, so keep checking, & our regular blog delves into cases in more detail.
Hopefully it's been interesting & useful. All the info comes from our free database of accidents to railway staff: http://www.railwayaccidents.port.ac.uk
We're expanding it all the time, so keep checking, & our regular blog delves into cases in more detail.
We'd like to thank everyone who's liked, shared or replied to our tweets - we've been learning as we've been going.
Most of all, we'd like to thank all our volunteers, from the guest bloggers to the teams preparing the data for you. Couldn't do it without you!
Most of all, we'd like to thank all our volunteers, from the guest bloggers to the teams preparing the data for you. Couldn't do it without you!
If you're short of something to explore, you can also find details of the occupations in the database in this (even bigger!) thread: https://twitter.com/RWLDproject/status/1047064164026519554?s=20
And we're always keen to collaborate further with researchers to tell the stories of past railway staff, their work & accidents, plus the wider impacts they had on family and community - more info here: https://twitter.com/RWLDproject/status/1240635739764936704
For now, though, a well-earned break.
We've a lot to be doing behind the scenes, getting more data ready for release & working with our fabulous volunteers who are busy transcribing even more cases.
So - please share with others & let them know about our work, & be safe & well.
We've a lot to be doing behind the scenes, getting more data ready for release & working with our fabulous volunteers who are busy transcribing even more cases.
So - please share with others & let them know about our work, & be safe & well.
