Relative calls for memorial to honour train crash victims

Rail disaster at Elliot Junction in 1906 killed 22 people and led to death of footballer who played major role in rescue effort

He was the Arbroath footballer whose train crash mercy mission during a blizzard cost him his life at just 32.

David “Dev” Smith Cargill ran from his home on South Street to Elliot Junction when word reached the town of a devastating rail disaster.

During his efforts Dev was working among ice as well as a boiling hot train which gave him a serious chill and he subsequently died shortly afterwards.

Dev’s great-great nephew Jim Millar has called for a permanent memorial to honour the 22 victims of one of Arbroath’s darkest days.

He said: “When my mum passed away last year, I started to look at the family tree, and found an excellent website run by another relative, Grant Cargill, which told the story of Dev Cargill and his role in the event.

“I hadn’t heard of the rail incident before then, so I started to research contemporary reports, and it was only then that I began to appreciate the scale of the accident.

“It is unimaginable to think of the carnage that met those who went to help at the scene, and the recovery would have been extremely challenging given the inclement conditions, especially without the availability of specialist equipment that we take for granted today.

“Survivors and those involved in the aftermath must have carried the memory of it for the rest of their lives.”

The Edinburgh-bound North British Express careered into the back of a Caledonian Railway local train standing at Elliot in 1906. Thirteen people were killed instantly on the local train but the death toll increased to 22, with eight injured.

The town’s drill hall was used as a temporary mortuary.

One of those injured in the crash was Liberal MP Alexander William Black, who died of his injuries shortly afterwards.

“An accident involving two trains, leaving 22 dead and eight injured, is a significant tragedy by any standard, so it is surprising that there is not greater awareness of it,” said Jim.

“There are periodic references on social media, but I think it is fair to say that knowledge of the accident is slipping away.

“Fortunately, major accidents like this are rare, but the impact they have on families and communities is profound.

“I believe a permanent memorial would be an appropriate way to mark the event, and inform people about the tragedy.

“A memorial plaque placed near the site that tells the story of the accident, and highlights the scale and loss of life, might be appropriate, although of course others might prefer another option such as the addition of a tree planted for each of those who died.

“The disaster is part of the town’s history, and I am sure there are many people who may be unaware of their family connection to it.

“That is why I think it would be good to have a permanent reminder of those who lost their lives, and pay tribute to those who went to assist the victims .”

I think it is fair to say that knowledge of the accident is slipping away