Fagundus, PA Boiler Explosion, Jul 1872

FATAL BOILER EXPLOSION.----We are indebted to Mr. George Sheffield for the particulars of another terrible boiler explosion which occurred on the afternoon of the 5th on the Gillespie Farm, near Fagundus, the particulars of which are as follows:

The engineer, Mr. John Aiken, was sitting in the engine house reading, when the deceased, Mr. A. C. Tressett, and operator on an adjoining lease, rushed into the engine house and informed Aiken that the building was on fire. He (Aiken) immediately tried to raise the safety valve to allow the steam to escape, there being a heavy head of steam on, but for some reason unknown failed, and forthwith turned his attention to the fire. In attempting to extinguish the flames the roof of the building fell on the engine, holding the safety valve down and preventing any escape of steam. While attempting to remove the roof of the boiler exploded, instantly killing Mr. Tressett and severely injuring the engineer and another man, whose name we did not learn. The deceased was a man of exemplary habits and highly esteemed by all who know him, and was a member of Oil Creek Lodge No. 303 of this city. He leaves a wife and three children to mourn his untimely death, and as we are informed, in very impecunious circumstances His remains were sent to Buffalo for interment, where he formerly resided. The engine and house were the property of Mr. F. Woodard, whose loss is estimated at about six hundred dollars.

Titusville Morning Herald, Titusville, PA 6 Jul 1872
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Transcribed by Linda Horton. Thank you, Linda!