Fifty years ago today, the Second Narrows Bridge collapsed into the Burrard Inlet. Eighteen men were killed and many more were injured.
I remember my husband coming home from work that afternoon. He was still in shock. He was up on one of the oil tanks gaging the oil before leaving for the day. He said he heard a terrific crack and knew something terrible had happened. Standard Oil Bulk Plant (now called Chevron) is located on Burrard Inlet, just a couple of miles away from the bridge. Being so high up, Gordon had a complete view of what happened that day. He could see men in the water and boats going out to try and rescue as many as possible. An incredible sight.
I am sorry that Gordon never wrote down his memories of this tragic day. I know he never forgot what happened.
The bridge name was changed from "Second Narrows" to "The Ironworkers Memorial Bridge." A fitting name to honour the men who were lost or injured.
1 comment:
Grandma - I didn't know that Grandpa witnessed it?! Wow, that would have been traumatizing. You should start journaling or logging your memoirs, like Uncle Donal.
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