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Newspaper
Boston Post
Location
Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
Date
Sep 23, 1904
Page
4
An expert on high explosives says the Melrose catastrophe was caused by the car’s electrical current contacting unexploded dynamite as well as the concussion. He notes concussion alone would not trigger a properly made dynamite charge, though dynamite boxes have survived train runs.
City Solicitor Frank L. Washburn states Melrose cannot be held responsible for last night's disaster. He says he has not yet learned all facts but from what he has read the city is not at fault.
Captain Henry Grover, superintendent of the Boston and Northern Railroad, states that if the railroad is held responsible, its duty extends only to passengers it carried. It cannot be liable for injuries to bystanders or property damage in nearby areas caused by the explosion.
The article notes no legal ban on transporting explosives through Melrose but argues proper care could have prevented last night’s disaster. Authorities and the mayor intend to take action, with a wide belief that a strict inquiry will assign blame to the responsible party.
City officials, state police, and Boston fire officials race to assign blame after a dynamite blast in Melrose. Investigations focus on whether shipments were properly packed and handled, with residents pressing for accountability and lawsuits looming against the city. Fenton the express wagon driver has been arrested as public anger grows.
The mayor has instructed the city solicitor and police to investigate the issue thoroughly while stating he is not yet prepared to comment on any findings or resolutions. The actions indicate official scrutiny of a local matter pending further clarification.
State police and railroad inspectors investigated the dynamite explosion in Melrose. They noted no existing state rule for carrying explosives by common carriers and plan an inquest with witnesses and evidence gathered at the scene. General Joseph Whitney and Inspector L. H. McLain lead the inquiry with local authorities.
Discussion following the Melrose disaster questions whether a low scoop fender could have prevented the explosion. Chairman James F. Jackson says no fender could have thwarted the accident, noting the base was flush with pavement and unpickable. Officials contrast scoop fenders with flat, stiff designs, deeming the latter superior and noting scoop-type fenders require attention the motorman cannot spare.
Melrose notices list funeral plans for several wreck victims. Dr Malcolm McLellan will be buried at his home in Melrose Highlands with no Woodlawn Cemetery service. Other bodies await arrangements at local undertakers with locations in Melrose Everett South Boston and Stoneham.
In a heavy northerly gale schooner Sardinian from Rockland bound for New York lost its jib and tore its foresail, anchored near Handkerchief Shoal where it dropped anchor and 15 fathoms of chain, lime cargo caught fire and 15 barrels were jettisoned. Also schooner Free Trade from Britain to Bridgeport broke main boom and ripped mainsail, and schooner Clifford C. from St John, N. B. to New York lost some sails.
The Boston and Hull Steamboat Company plans a new steamship line linking Boston Hull Allerton Bayside and Nantasket Point starting May 1 190 with three brand new boats each for 2000 passengers. Fast service lower prices evening trips moonlight sails and direct landings at Hull Allerton and Bayside centers aim to cut streetcar time. Four new piers will be built freight service included as offices in Old South building provide full information stock open to public subscriptions.
Fire Commissioner Russell of Boston examines a dynamite transport disaster in Melrose. He vows a rigid probe into violations of explosives transport rules and failure to notify fire headquarters before moving four boxes. The Laflin-Rand Company sold the dynamite to Melrose. the Eastman company handled loading and routing.
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