Lunch & Learn: The Bryn Athyn Train Wreck

December 5, 1921. Two trains. One track. 27 dead. 70 injured. The crash in Bryn Athyn of two opposing trains of the Philadelphia & Reading Railway was one of the most catastrophic of its time, yet largely unknown today. Many factors contributed to the disaster that unfolded between Woodmont and Paper Mill Stations in Upper Moreland Township, including the wooden passenger cars, which were equipped with gas tanks for heating, the terrain, and the weather.

Speaker Jim Rose is a licensed architect currently working for Drexel University. He’s been a member of the Friends of the Railroad Museum since 1986, was Volunteer of the Year in 2003, and currently serves as the President of the organization.  His work at the Railroad Museum includes conducting tours and interpreting the equipment, volunteering with the summer day camp, and building and exhibit design.

Speaker Mark Liss is a licensed landscape architect working for municipal government in central New Jersey. He is a member of numerous railroad historical societies and currently serves as President and newsletter editor for the Delaware Valley Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society. His interest in railroad history and toy and model train collecting began during childhood with the ubiquitous train set beneath the Christmas tree.

Enjoy a continental breakfast, lecture on the Bryn Athyn train wreck, and a lunch buffet. Tours of the historic Keith House will also be available after lunch. Reserved event. $30/person; $25/members.

Please print and mail REGISTRATION FORM.