Seventy years have passed since a significant and tragic industrial incident in Cambridge that left a profound impact on the community. Cambridge historian Paul Langan described the event as one that would still be considered spectacular today, with people recalling memories of being brought to the crash site decades later.
The incident occurred on May 2, 1956, when two Canadian Pacific Railway steam trains collided on the Water Street overpass in Galt. The collision led to the collapse of the overpass, resulting in the engines crashing onto the road below, leading to the death of two railway workers and severe injuries to four others.
A documentary titled “Tragedy in Galt,” produced by Allan Eaton, co-founder of the Dundurn Castle Heritage Association, sheds light on this historical event. The documentary, based on Langan’s book of the same name, includes archival images and footage of the crash.
The inspiration for the documentary came from Eaton’s involvement in a Highland bagpipe band, where a fellow musician composed a railway-themed piece inspired by the crash. The production features music from the Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada and a cello performance by Christopher Sharpe from Kitchener-Waterloo.
Eaton sought permission from Langan to use information and photos from his book for the documentary, emphasizing the importance of preserving history and heritage. The project was funded by National Steel Car, a railway freight and tank car manufacturer based in Hamilton.
Langan and Eaton aim for the documentary not only to commemorate the past but also to highlight the advancements in workplace safety and mental health support over the years. They hope the film will inspire viewers to prioritize safety in their work environments.
The documentary, which can be accessed on YouTube and through educational institutions across Canada, serves as a reminder of the tragic event and the progress made in ensuring workplace safety and mental well-being since then.
