The Memorial

Erected in memory of those killed or injured, and to the heroism and dedication of all those who responded to the disaster.

One of the worst accidents in Canadian railway history occurred at this site at 8:43 PM on December 27, 1942. A special train carrying Canadian Soldiers for overseas service struck the rear of a stationary train crowded with holiday passengers, demolishing the three rear coaches. The number known to have died was 39, and more than 150 were injured. Almonte citizens, military personnel, railway staff, and other volunteers from Ottawa Valley towns did their utmost to help the doctors and nurses. The Almonte Town Hall was used as a morgue, the capacity of the local hospital was exceeded, and the O’Brien theatre, adjacent to this site was used as a first aid centre. Most of the injured were transported by train to Ottawa.