A Town Built for a Day
In 1896, Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad agent William Crush organized a staged train collision in Texas. A temporary town named “Crush” was built north of Waco, complete with carnival attractions, food stands, and even a wooden jail.
40,000 Spectators Arrive
On September 15, 1896, trains brought 40,000 people to watch two 35-ton steam locomotives crash head-on at 50 mph. The event was delayed as crowds kept arriving, making Crush the second-largest city in Texas for a day.
A Deadly Explosion
As the locomotives collided, their boilers exploded, sending metal debris into the crowd. At least two people died, and many were injured. Photographer J.C. Deane lost an eye to a flying steel bolt.
A Publicity Success Despite Tragedy
Despite the disaster, the Katy Railroad gained massive publicity. Crush was fired but quickly rehired. The event became legendary, and a historical marker in West, Texas still commemorates the Crash at Crush today.
In 1896, railroad agent William Crush had a bold idea: crash two locomotives head-on for spectacle. A temporary town named 'Crush' was built north of Waco, Texas, drawing 40,000 spectators. The event promised excitement, but what happened next shocked the crowd and made history. pic.twitter.com/K2tJx9ImDX
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) February 13, 2025