Pemberton Mill Disaster. The Penberton mill was built in 1853. It was five stories tall, 280 feet long and, 84 feet wide. Charles was it's chief engineer. On January 10, 1860 without warring it collapsed. Dozens died instantly. Hundreds more were trapped in the wreckage. During the rescue efforts an oil lamp was knocked over setting the wreckage ablaze. Many of the trapped were burned alive. Estimates of the number killed vary from 90 to 145. Many more were injured. It is still considered the worst industrial accident in Massachusetts history.
The finger of blame was pointed in many different directions. Some blamed the construction. Charles blamed the owners claiming they purchase sub-standard construction materials. The building was crowded with more machinery than it was designed for.
Library book: Genealogy of the Bigelow Family of America
1246
Military Service
U.S. Army
Graduated from West Point. Spent ten years as an Army engineer, building New England forts. Held the rank of Captain.
1814 - 1862 (47 years)
