Macabre London Crushed by The Rocket: The Death and Haunting of William Huskisson
Jun 17, 2025
In 1828, the first passenger railway marked a monumental occasion, but it quickly turned tragic when William Huskisson became its first casualty, crushed in a horrific accident. His death sparked rumors of hauntings along the railway, intertwining tragedy with ghostly lore. The podcast delves into the societal impacts of the Industrial Revolution and the unforeseen consequences of technological advancements, exploring how progress sometimes comes with a chilling price. A captivating blend of history and mystery awaits!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Fear of Steam Trains
- Early steam trains caused widespread fear due to size, speed, and unknown health effects.
- This fear persisted despite trains needing workers and eventually revolutionizing travel and industry.
First Railway Fatality Legacy
- William Huskisson was the first ever fatal railway accident victim during the opening of the Liverpool-Manchester line.
- His death highlighted the risks of new technology and became a lasting legacy and cautionary tale.
Huskisson's Fatal Train Accident
- At the railway opening, Huskisson tried to reconcile with the Duke but was struck by an oncoming train.
- His injury and death were witnessed by many, making it the first train-related fatality.
