This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: HASKINS, DAVENPORT Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/lY.2ADE/759 Message Board Post: Hello Fellow Fremont Posters! First some background: My G>Grandfather, Charles F. HASKINS, was an engineer on the D&RGRR in the mid 1880's. During his tenure, he and his fireman, Dave DAVENPORT, were involved in the famous wreck of '85. What?! Youv'e never heard of this accident that brought about the end of narrow gauge lines in the Rockys, and ended up causing the company to reform as the D&RGW??? No suprise. The company took great pains to make this situation "go away". The gist of the story follows: On May 9th, 1885, sometime after 3:40 P.M., while hauling a mixed load (ore and passengers) along a narrow gauge line of the Grape Creek Extension(Silver Creek Branch towards Westcliff), the trestle gave way in front and in an effort to save the passengers, which he did, he rode the engine (train # 49)(Locomotive 74 drawing train 71) over the downed trestle and plummeted 104 feet into the ravine. I have been researching this accident for the better part of 30 years but have had trouble finding related documentation. My Query: Does anyone have any info on this accident and, particularly, PHOTOS or newspaper articles, or documents pertaining to this accident or the Grape Creek Extention? I would like info on Mr. Dave Davenport as well but have not had much luck. Both men lived in Canon City at the time. Please! Any help would be appreciated. Thanks soooooooooo much in advance, Carl