This year, 2023, marks the 45th anniversary of the Waverly Train Disaster of 1978, which took 16 lives and injured over 200 more in one of the United States' worst train explosions and hazardous materials incidents of the 20th century. It led to widespread changes in rail safety and hazmat handling throughout the country and the world, and even catalyzed the formation of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The Waverly Train Museum and Memorial in Waverly, TN, exists to commemorate and preserve the history of that disaster, and to serve as an archive for all who wish to learn from the lessons of Waverly. It is badly in need of exterior repairs, beginning with a significant paint job.
Please help us raise money for the museum and restore the caboose to its original red and vibrant exterior at the event, gofundme.com, or at the First Federal Bank in Waverly. Just ask for the Train Museum Restoration account managed by Patti Damesworth and Pam Gunn.
The event is JUNE 15th and located at the Methodist Church in Waverly TN. There will be refreshments, live music, stories from survivors, photo footage and books for sale.
To donate online please visit:
https://www.gofundme.com/restore-the-waverly-train-museum