Halifax Explosion Site Find

[Johno]

I found this metal about 4" underground at a site in Dartmouth near where the Halifax Explosion occurred. It certainly appears like it was stressed from some powerful force, but was it from the explosion. The actual ship was blown apart and most of it's hull likely vapourized in the actual explosion however, some debris has been found over the years. This piece is bowed out, narrowed at the curvature, and has a hole in the centre which is also fragmented and warped in the same direction. The only thing that puzzles me is the "squareness" of the piece. Perhaps someone with some knowledge of metalurgy could help me to figure out if this could be from the explosion, or just a hunk of metal cut away and discarded. Once again, thanks to all who help me in this pursuit.

Phil

 

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[DJ_Quinn]

Hi Johno, I read your post with interest because my Grandmother was a survivor of the Halifax explosion. She became seprated from her family, and her younger sister was killed. Her father searched the morgues and hospitals for 5 days before he finally located her. It was apparantly a massive explosion that devestated the port city. Very interesting historical find.

 

[BuckleBoy]

I can't wait to hear what people say about this piece. It realistically could have been from any of the ships then in the harbor, since the blast temperature was so high. I hope someone can give us a little more info. Either way, it is a fantastic piece whether or not it was from the blast because of the images it conjures up of the events on that tragic day. All the more interesting and poignant if it was, though. Interesting that in the U.S. we all knew the story of the Titanic (even before that sappy movie rendering of the tale), but few know this disaster story--or even the story of the Chicago fire (except those who currently live in Chicago). It is really sad that so many Americans are so out of touch with history. Congrats, man. I'm excited to hear what you find out.

-Buckleboy

 

[Steve in Michigan]

All I can say is WOW! I never heard about this. Here is a link to the explosion:

http://museum.gov.ns.ca/mma/AtoZ/HalExpl.html

I would say that your find is neat, but in fact its sad if its truly from that explosion. Take care!

Your Friend,

Steve in Michigan

 

[kd8hf]

What an amazing story. This is the first time I have heard about this.

Thanks!

Gary