Explosion in Washington Boro – 1907

Beginning in the 1890’s, some homes and businesses were lit by acetylene lamps.

Before home electrification was common, acetylene lamps provided brilliant light and did not require a connection to a gas main.

Many home owners were wary of bringing gas lines into their dwelling, although acetylene is highly combustible.

During renovations in the 1890’s, an acetylene lighting plant was installed in the Church of God at Washington Boro. (Washington Boro is a “census-designated place” along the Susquehanna River in Manor Township.)

On the evening of March 19, 1907, during Prayer Meeting, an explosion of the acetylene lighting plant severely damaged the Church.

A postcard photograph of the damaged church was published by a printer named Wertz.

The postcard was addressed to Miss Cora Hubley of Windom; I assume the sender/giver to be H.S.Greene who signed the reverse.

An internet search revealed very little information about this event although an-online history of the Church of God describes the damage to the building in Washington Boro.

Despite many injuries from shattered glass, no one died in the explosion.

(There are several fascinating websites devoted to acetylene lamps that were manufactured for automobile headlights in the years around 1910.)