'The Ashtabula Disaster' Summary

"The Ashtabula Disaster" by Stephen D. Peet is a historical non-fiction book about one of the deadliest train accidents in the United States that occurred in 1876. Peet describes the events leading up to and following the disaster, which took place in the town of Ashtabula, Ohio. The book was originally published in 1877, shortly after the accident, and is considered a primary source on the tragedy.

Peet was a witness to the Ashtabula disaster, and his firsthand account of the event provides a chilling narrative of the tragedy. The book describes in detail the horrific accident in which a train carrying over 150 people plunged into a frozen river, resulting in the death of nearly 100 passengers. Peet provides a vivid depiction of the chaos and devastation that ensued, as well as the heroic efforts of those who worked tirelessly to rescue the survivors.

In addition to describing the disaster itself, Peet also examines the causes and aftermath of the event. He critiques the lack of safety regulations in the railway industry at the time, as well as the insufficient response of the authorities to the disaster. The book provides valuable insight into the social and political context of the time period, and sheds light on the struggles of the victims and their families in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Overall, "The Ashtabula Disaster" is a poignant and informative historical account of a tragic event in American history. Peet's vivid and detailed description of the disaster, combined with his analysis of its causes and aftermath, makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in American history or railway safety.