The quiet routine of daily work and life is shattered by an explosion that rocks the shipyards and surrounding area. Windows are shattered, and a huge piece of the ship crashes down outside of the shipyards. The press of questions come raining down almost immediately. What caused it? Could it have been prevented? Was anyone hurt? And what happened after the dust and debris settled?  Join us to hear the explosive tale of the Norman P. Clement.

After the story we express our on-going gratitude to the shipyard workers and their lasting legacy in town. We invite your feedback and ask for your story suggestions. We also highlight our Black History Month activities in partnership with the Town of Collingwood and Sheffield Park Black History and Cultural Museum. And lastly, we invite everyone to join us for Family Day (Feb. 20th) when the museum will be open with games and activities for young and old alike. We hope to see you all there!

Episode Picture:

The Norman P. Clement (being towed out by the tug Dana T. Bowen)  [Collingwood Museum Collection 2010.8.185.]

Research:

Maritime History of the Great Lakes. https://images.maritimehistoryofthegreatlakes.ca/54664/data

Maritime History of the Great Lakes.  https://images.maritimehistoryofthegreatlakes.ca/24427/data?g=d

Toronto Telegram October 22, 1968

Enterprise Bulletin. October 17 1968 p.1

Enterprise Bulletin. October 23, 1968 p.1

Links:

“The Night the City of Collingwood Burned” Season 1, Episode 22 https://anchor.fm/cwoodstories/episodes/The-Night-the-City-of-Collingwood-Burned-e1hrehb