During its hundred years of existence the Waterford and Tramore Railway had only four serious accidents.The first accident took place on August 6^th, 1858 when the 6.20pm train from Tramore crashed through the wall of the Manor Street Station. One young girl was killed another was injured but no passengers were hurt.

The second accident took place on August 24^th 1935, when the engine of the 12.15pm train from Waterford became derailed at Carriglong Bridge. It skidded along for over 300 yards, dragging the coaches after it and finally plunged down an embankment. The guard of the train was seriously injured. The guard's name was Christy Falconer. It was never discovered what caused the accident.

The third accident was spectacular (see  picture above). At around midnight on August 4^th 1947 a large crowd of people on Strand watched in amazement as the engine came crashing through the wall of the station and out on to the roadway. The train was the last one for the evening and carried few passengers although there was a large crowd waiting for the return journey. Gallant action taken by the driver and fireman prevented what could have been a major disaster. Hundreds of holidaymakers who were walking along Strand Road at the time and many Waterford people who were rushing for the last train had an extraordinary escape from serious injury. The train stopped out in the middle of the road outside the hotel.

The fourth accident occurred in 1953 when a young girl fell from a moving train and was killed.

Introduction Early History First Train Developments Accidents Steam Close