THE MORANIA #130 AND PENOBSCOT DISASTER

Date: October 29, 1951

Location: Buffalo River, Buffalo, New York

OVERVIEW OF THE INCIDENT

On October 29, 1951, one of the deadliest marine disasters in Buffalo’s history unfolded on the Buffalo River. The tragic event involved the collision of the 120-foot freight Barge Morania #130, laden with 800,000 US gallons of gasoline, and the Steamer Penobscot.

The Morania #130, a 4,000-ton freight Barge, was being pushed by the diesel Tug M/V Dauntless #12. The Tug inadvertently directed the Barge into the path of the Steamer Penobscot, which was leaving Buffalo after unloading grain. Despite attempts by the Penobscot to reverse away from the Barge, the two vessels collided. The contact caused a spark, igniting the volatile cargo of gasoline aboard the Morania #130.

THE FIRE

The resulting fire was catastrophic. A massive blaze engulfed the Barge and the surrounding area, turning the Buffalo River into a scene of chaos and devastation. The fire raged for several days, fueled by the immense quantity of gasoline. The tragedy claimed the lives of 11 sailors, including two crew members from the Penobscot.

Thousands of horrified spectators gathered along the riverbanks to witness the disaster unfold. The event left an indelible mark on the community, highlighting the dangers of maritime operations involving hazardous materials.

IMPACT

The disaster underscored the critical need for enhanced safety protocols in maritime transportation, particularly for vessels carrying flammable or hazardous cargo. The loss of life and destruction served as a wake-up call to the shipping industry, prompting reviews of navigation practices, emergency response protocols, and the design of vessels handling volatile materials.

For the city of Buffalo, the tragedy remains a somber chapter in its maritime history, a stark reminder of the risks faced by sailors who navigate the Great Lakes in pursuit of their livelihood.

KEY DETAILS

•Vessels Involved:

•Morania #130 (Freight Barge, 4,000 tons, carrying 800,000 gallons of gasoline)

•M/V Dauntless #12 (Diesel Tug)

•Penobscot (Steamer, grain carrier)

•Casualties: 11 lives lost, including 2 crew members from the Penobscot.

•Cause of Fire: Collision caused a spark that ignited the gasoline aboard the Morania #130.

•Fire Duration: Several days

LEGACY

The Morania #130 and Penobscot disaster is a poignant reminder of the perils inherent in maritime transportation, particularly with hazardous cargo. The memory of the lives lost continues to inspire efforts to improve safety standards in the industry. This tragic event remains a significant part of Buffalo’s history, reflecting both the courage of sailors and the necessity for ongoing vigilance in maritime safety.