On the drizzly evening of February 6, 1951, the Pennsylvania Railroad commuter train known as "The Broker" derailed in Woodbridge, New Jersey, killing 85 and injuring hundreds in what remains the deadliest railroad accident in the state's history. Communities all along the Jersey Shore were shaken by the sudden and violent loss of family and friends.
What happened was self-evident from the mangled railcars and bodies. Why was another matter and would lead investigators to delve deep into the inner workings of the self-proclaimed "Standard Railroad of the World."
Historian and author Gordon Bond will be giving his presentation about this tragedy drawn from his new book, "MAN FAILURE: The Story of New Jersey's Deadliest Train Wreck." Copies will be available for purchase and signing for $30.
As always, attendance is free, and all are welcome!