Québec Bridge collapses with huge loss of life
Québec, 11 September 1916 - The world’s largest cantilever suspension bridge collapsed with the loss of more than 25 lives yesterday.
The bridge crosses the St Lawrence River in the Canadian city of Québec and its central span was being hoisted into place when it fell, throwing many workmen into the river. More than 90 men were working on the span when it fell. Boats rushed and managed to save some but further fatalities are feared.
The bridge was in the process of being rebuilt having previously collapsed in 1907 with the loss of over 70 lives.
[Editor's note: This is an article from Century Ireland, a fortnightly online newspaper, written from the perspective of a journalist 100 years ago, based on news reports of the time.]
