lornajarrettblanchard

–16 USPHS Vital Statistics of…US 1963: Vol. II–Mortality, Part A. 1965, Table 1-20, p.142. Narrative Information CDC on German Measles: “Rubella (German Measles, Three-Day Measles): Rubella is a contagious disease caused by a virus. Most people who get rubella usually have a mild illness, with symptoms that can include a low-grade fever, sore throat, and a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Rubella can cause a miscarriage or serious birth defects in a developing baby if a woman is infected while she is pregnant. The best protection against rubella is MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine.” Transmission: “Rubella spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Also, if a woman is infected with rubella while she is pregnant, she can pass it to her developing baby and cause serious harm…. A person with rubella may spread the disease to others up to one week before the rash appears, and remain contagious up to 7 days after. However, 25% to 50% of people infected with rubella do not develop a rash or have any symptoms. “People infected with rubella should tell friends, family, and people they work with, especially pregnant women, if they have rubella. If your child has rubella, it’s important to tell your child’s school or daycare provider.” (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Rubella. 9-17-2017 review.) CDC on Measles and Rubella: “Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus. It can result in serious health complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and even cause death. “Rubella is a viral infection that affects unvaccinated children and young adults. If an unvaccinated woman gets rubella while pregnant – especially in her first three months – serious consequences can result, including miscarriages, fetal deaths, still births, and having infants born with congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). “CRS is a group of devastating birth defects that includes blindness, deafness, and heart defects. More than 100,000 children are born every year with CRS, mainly in Africa, South-East Asia, and the Western Pacific. “What do Measles and Rubella have in common? While rubella is sometimes referred to as “German measles,” the rubella and measles viruses are unrelated and are from different virus families. However, they do have some similarities. Both viruses: are spread from person to person by coughing and sneezing, can result in fever and skin rash after infection, and survive only in human hosts. “Measles and rubella can be prevented with vaccines that can be delivered together as a combined measles-rubella (MR) vaccine, or combined with vaccines against mumps (MMR) and varicella (chickenpox) (MMRV).” (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Facts about Measles & Rubella. 8-31-2017 review.) Sources Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Facts about Measles & Rubella. 8-31-2017 review. Accessed 5-5-2019 at: https://www.cdc.gov/globalhealth/measles/facts.htm Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Rubella. 9-17-2017 review. Accessed 5-5-2019 at: https://www.cdc.gov/rubella/index.html United States Public Health Service, Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Vital Statistics of the United States 1963: Volume II – Mortality, Part A. Washington: GPO, 1965. Accessed 8-10-2022 at: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/vsus/mort63_2a.pdf

–129 USPHS Vital Statistics of…US 1963: Vol. II–Mortality, Part A. 1965, Table 1-20, p.1-42.

Narrative Information

CDC: “Chickenpox is a very contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It causes a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness, and fever. The rash appears first on the stomach, back and face and can spread over the entire body causing between 250 and 500 itchy blisters. Chickenpox can be serious, especially in babies, adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get the chickenpox vaccine.” (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Chickenpox (Varicella).” 7-1-2016 update.)

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Chickenpox (Varicella).” 7-1-2016 update. Accessed 11-26-2018 at: https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/about/index.html

United States Public Health Service, Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Vital Statistics of the United States 1963: Volume II – Mortality, Part A. Washington: GPO, 1965. Accessed 8-11-2022 at: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/vsus/mort63_2a.pdf

–48 USPHS Vital Statistics of…US 1963: Vol. II–Mortality, Part A. 1965, Table 1-20, p. 1-42.

Narrative Information

CDC: “Mumps is a contagious disease that is caused by a virus. It typically starts with a few days of fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, and loss of appetite. Then most people will have swelling of their salivary glands….This is what causes the puffy cheeks and a tender, swollen jaw…It spreads through direct contact with saliva or respiratory droplets from the mouth, nose, or throat. An infected person can spread the virus by

coughing, sneezing, or talking; sharing items that may have saliva on them, such as water bottles or cups; participating in close-contact activities with others, such as playing sports, dancing, or kissing

“An infected person can spread mumps from a few days before their salivary glands begin to swell to up to five days after the swelling begins. A person with mumps should limit their contact with others during this time. For example, stay home from school and do not attend social events.” (CDC. About Mumps. 3-8-2021.)

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Mumps. 3-8-2021. Accessed 12-12-2021 at: https://www.cdc.gov/mumps/about/index.html

United States Public Health Service, Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Vital Statistics of the United States 1963: Volume II – Mortality, Part A. Washington: GPO, 1965. Accessed 8-12-2022 at: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/vsus/mort63_2a.pdf

–457 USPHS Vital Statistics of…US 1963: Vol. II–Mortality, Part A. 1965, p. 1-71.

Source

United States Public Health Service, Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Vital Statistics of the United States 1963: Volume II – Mortality, Part A. Washington: GPO, 1965. Accessed 8-12-2022 at: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/vsus/mort63_2a.pdf

–196 USPHS Vital Statistics of…US 1963: Vol. II–Mortality, Part A. 1965, Table 1-24, p. 154.

— 4 Alabama
–10 Arizona — 1 Arkansas
–22 California — 1 Colorado
— 1 District of Columbia
— 6 Florida — 1 Georgia
— 1 Idaho
— 4 Illinois
— 3 Indiana
— 5 Iowa
— 7 Kansas
— 9 Louisiana — 1 Maine
— 4 Maryland
— 5 Massachusetts
— 6 Michigan
— 3 Minnesota
— 2 Mississippi
— 9 Missouri
— 3 Nebraska
— 1 Nevada
— 1 New Hampshire
–10 New Jersey
— 1 New Mexico
–11 New York
— 3 North Carolina
— 3 Ohio
— 9 Oklahoma
— 1 Oregon
— 6 Pennsylvania
— 1 Rhode Island
— 1 South Carolina
— 1 South Dakota
–26 Texas
— 1 Utah
— 3 Washington
— 1 West Virginia
— 4 Wisconsin
Sources

United States Public Health Service, Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Vital Statistics of the United States 1963: Volume II – Mortality, Part A. Washington: GPO, 1965. Accessed 8-11-2022 at: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/vsus/mort63_2a.pdf

–13 Baugher. US Navy…Marine Corps BuNos Third Series (126257 to 130264) 8-26-2011.
–13 Eureka Humboldt Standard, CA. “San Diego Hunt…13 on…Seaplane.” 12-27-1962, p. 17.
–13 Press-Telegram, Long Beach, CA. “Navy Lists 13 Crewmen on Lost Plane.” 12-28-1962, 3
–13 Press-Telegram, Long Beach, CA. “Navy Abandons Hope for 13…Plane.” 12-31-1962, p3.
–13 Redlands Daily Facts, CA. “13 Crewmen on Missing Plane Give up.” 1-1-1963, p. 5.
–13 Star-News, Pasadena, CA. “Plane Debris Identified as Navy Craft.” 12-29-1962, p. 17.

Narrative Information

Baugher: “127712 (VP-42) lost at sea Dec 26, 1962, 350 mi SW of San Diego. 13 killed.” (Baugher. US Navy and US Marine Corps BuNos Third Series (126257 to 130264) 8-26-2011.)

Newspapers

Dec 27: “San Diego (UPI) – Four sea planes from the North Island Naval Air Station [San Diego] and eight jets from Miramar Naval Air Station [San Diego] here began a search at daybreak today for a Marlin P5M1 seaplane with 13 officers and men aboard. The plane was scheduled to return to North Island shortly after midnight from a routine patrol. A Navy spokesman estimated fuel aboard the plane would be expended at 4:30 a.m. PST today….” (Eureka Humboldt Standard, CA. “San Diego Hunt…13 on…Seaplane.” 12-27-1962, p. 17.)

Dec 28: “San Diego (AP) – There was still no trace today of a Navy seaplane missing off the coast of Mexico since Wednesday night. Thirteen men were aboard. The plane, a P5M1 Martin Marlin, was attached to Patrol Squadron 42, which lost a plane in the Gulf of Alaska Sept. 24. Ten perished in that crash. Last, word from the seaplane was a position report from 350 miles southwest of San Diego….” (Press-Telegram, Long Beach, CA. “Navy Lists 13 Crewmen on Lost Plane.” 12-28-1962, p. 3.)

Dec 29: “San Diego – AP – Debris sighted about 280 miles southwest of here has been positively identified as that of a Navy seaplane carrying a crew of 13. Lt. Richard H. Martin, a pilot, said he spotted oil slick, a life raft and wing floats Friday. Martin said he circled the area five hours before identification was certain. The plane was last heard from Wednesday night. It disappeared without a signal of trouble while returning from a routine patrol. Navy and Coast Guard planes searched the area for 36 hours before the first wreckage was sighted. A Navy spokesman said the destroyer John A. Dole would make a thorough search of the area.” (Star-News, Pasadena, CA. “Plane Debris Identified as Navy Craft.” 12-29-1962, p. 17.)

Dec 31: “San Diego (UPI) – The Navy today abandoned its search for 13 crewmen of a twin-engine seaplane which crashed off the coast of Baja California, Mexico, on Wednesday, and said all 13 men aboard were presumed lost at sea.” (Press-Telegram, Long Beach, CA. “Navy Abandons Hope for 13 Aboard Plane.” 12-31-1962, p. 3.)

Sources

Baugher, Joseph F. US Navy and US Marine Corps BuNos Third Series (126257 to 130264) Aug 26, 2011 revision. Accessed at: http://www.joebaugher.com/navy_serials/thirdseries14.html

Eureka Humboldt Standard, CA. “San Diego Hunt Opens for 13 on Missing Seaplane,” 12-27-1962, 17. At: http://www.newspaperarchive.com/FullPagePdfViewer.aspx?img=54453476

Press-Telegram, Long Beach, CA. “Navy Abandons Hope for 13 Aboard Plane.” 12-31-1962, p. 3. Accessed at: http://www.newspaperarchive.com/FullPagePdfViewer.aspx?img=50195723

Press-Telegram, Long Beach, CA. “Navy Lists 13 Crewmen on Lost Plane.” 12-28-1962, p. 3, Accessed at: http://www.newspaperarchive.com/FullPagePdfViewer.aspx?img=50195651

Redlands Daily Facts, CA. “13 Crewmen on Missing Plane Give up.” 1-1-1963, p. 5. Accessed at: http://www.newspaperarchive.com/FullPagePdfViewer.aspx?img=156920116

Star-News, Pasadena, CA. “Plane Debris Identified as Navy Craft.” 12-29-1962, p. 17. Accessed at: http://www.newspaperarchive.com/FullPagePdfViewer.aspx?img=52891187

–9 Hanson. “Hudson, Mass. Nursing Home Fire Takes Nine Lives.” Fire Engineering, 5-1-1963
–9 NFPA. “Multiple-Death Fires in Nursing Homes & Homes for the Aged, 1921-1978 (list).”
–9 US Senate. Nursing Home Care in the United States: Failure in Public Policy. Aug 1975, p. 534.

Narrative Information

Hanson: TRAGEDY struck the town of Hudson, Mass., (population 8,500) on December 20, with the horror of an early morning fire in the St. Jude Nursing Home. Privately operated for aged and invalid patients, it was located on Church Street just outside the mercantile district and about a two minute run from fire headquarters.

“The building involved was typical of many of these occupancies. Originally a large 10-room, single-family, frame dwelling, it had been converted for use as a nursing home in 1951. In 1955 a six-room addition was built onto the rear and at the time of the fire a major remodeling project was in progress, which included another addition to the rear east side….” (Hanson, Henry T. “Hudson, Mass. Nursing Home Fire Takes Nine Lives.” Fire Engineering, 5-1-1963.)

Sources

Hanson, Henry T. “Hudson, Mass. Nursing Home Fire Takes Nine Lives.” Fire Engineering, 5-1-1963. Accessed 9-29-2022 at: https://www.fireengineering.com/leadership/hudson-mass-nursing-home-fire-takes-nine-lives/#gref

National Fire Protection Association. “Multiple-Death Fires in Nursing Homes & Homes for the Aged, 1921-1978 (list).” In: United States United States Congress, House of Representatives. Boarding Home Fires: The Tip of the Iceberg (Hearing before the Subcommittee on Health and Long Term Care, Select Committee on Aging, 96th Congress, First Session, April 25, 1979). Washington, DC, U.S. Government Printing Office, 1979, pp. 312-314.

United States Senate. “Multiple death fires, nursing homes and homes for the aged, United States 1951-74, as reported to the NFPA Fire Analysis Department.” Pp. 533-534 in: US Senate, Subcommittee on Long-Term Care of the Special Committee on Aging, Nursing Home Care in the United States: Failure in Public Policy. Supporting Paper No. 5. The Continuing Chronicle of Nursing Home Fires. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Aug 1975. Accessed 9-29-2022 at: https://www.aging.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/reports/rpt475.pdf

— 37  Bugbee. “Fire Protection Developments in 1962. NFPA Quarterly, V56/N3, Jan 1963, 197.

— 37  NFPA. “Multiple-Death Fires of 1962.” NFPA Quarterly, V56/N4, April 1963, p. 295.*

— 37  NFPA. Spreadsheet on Large Loss of Life Fires (as of Feb 2003).

— 37  National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, CDC. Mine Disasters.

— 37  United States Mine Rescue Association. Mine Accidents and Disasters. “U.S. Steel…”

 

* “During the past year, 1,349 persons died in the 306 fires and explosions which killed 3 or more persons in the United States and Canada. This is an increase of 7 fires and a decrease of 22 deaths compared with 1961 experience…The largest multiple-death fire occurred December 6, when an explosion in a mine in Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, killed 37 miners.”

 

Narrative Information

 

United States Mine Rescue Association: “Two gas and coal dust explosions, the first at about 1:05 p.m. and the second at about 1:25 p.m., occurred on Thursday, December 6, 1962, in the 4 mains right area of Robena No. 3 mine… Thirty-seven men, all of those working in the 8 left section of the explosion area, are believed to have died as a result of the first explosion, as attested by the fact that some of the watches, including the watch on the body of the outermost victim, had been stopped between 1:03 and 1:05, while two other men who approached the area after the first explosion were knocked down but not injured by the forces of the second explosion. The other 133 men in the Robena No. 3 mine at the time were withdrawn without mishap.

 

“Bureau of Mines investigators believe that the first explosion originated in the face area of 8 left inby 90 crosscut between Nos. 4 and 8 entries when a mixture of methane and air was ignited by one of four possible sources: A nip station just outby 90 crosscut on No. 6 entry, a car puller activated by an open-type electric motor located on intake air at the inby right comer of No. 6 entry at 90 crosscut, friction sparks from bits of a continuous miner being operated at the face of the slant place between Nos. 7 and 8 entries inby 91 crosscut, or an auxiliary fan in operation and in nonpermissible condition in 91 crosscut between the slant and No. 8 entry.

 

“The second explosion originated somewhere in 8 left section when gas and/or dust was ignited by residual fires or by an electric arc, since the main fan had been restarted and the mine power system had been reenergized soon after the first explosion. Coal dust assisted in the propagation of both explosions.

 

“The Robena mine, operated as one unit, consists of three interconnected mines, Nos. 1,2, and 3, located at Greensboro and Carmichaels, Greene County, Pennsylvania, which are served by barges on the Monongahela River….

 

“Evidence brought out during the official hearings on the disaster disclosed that blasting was not done on the construction shift on December 6, and there was no indication during the investigation of the disaster that blasting had been done on the shift on which the explosions occurred.

 

“The mine is classed gassy by the State and the Bureau of Mines.  Preshift examinations for gas and other hazards were made by certified officials before the first operating shift of each day, and preshift examinations for succeeding shifts were made by the onshift certified official during his regular tour of duty.  Onshift examinations for gas and other hazards were made by assistant foremen, mine foremen, safety inspectors, certain equipment operators, and shot firers.  Gas wells penetrating the property were protected by blocks of coal left in place.  An abandoned and plugged gas well was situated about 1,150 feet to the right of the faces in 8 left section.

 

“Dust. At the time of the February 1962 Federal inspection of the Robena mine, the mine surfaces were generally dry.  Dangerous accumulations of loose coal or coal dust were not observed.

 

“Further testimony during the hearings revealed that 53 loaded cars and one partly loaded car of coal were in the section (2 loaded and a partly loaded car near the loading ramp between 89 and 90 crosscuts, 10 cars in 84 crosscut, 36 cars extending inby from 45 crosscut, and 5 on the right side pickup at 72 crosscut).  Sixty-three tons of coal were swept from these cars by the forces of the explosions, and that portion smaller than 20 mesh would have been fuel to propagate the explosions.

 

“Testimony also revealed that it was believed that the explosion originated from an ignition of gas in the face area of 8 left and was propagated by the abovementioned coal dust in addition to 1,400 or more pounds on the mine floor resulting from timber hitches cut in the ribs between 76 and 77 crosscuts No. 5 entry and other coal dust in the entries….

 

“The electric equipment in 8 left section was examined during the investigation, and permissibility defects were found in the permissible-type equipment. These deficiencies in the permissible-type equipment indicated general substandard inspection and maintenance of such equipment….

 

“…during the official hearings on the explosions, a continuous miner operator on that shift stated that he had found gas at the intersection of the No. 5 entry and the inby radius from No. 5 to No. 6 entries, and that the air movement in this area was sluggish.  He stated also that the section foreman was present when the gas was found and ordered a check curtain erected to improve the ventilation.  The foreman insisted that gas was not found on this shift, and that he had never found gas during his 2 months’ supervision of the section.

 

“Recovery Operations. The recovery was a long and tedious operation, taking from about 3:00 p.m. December 6 until the morning of December 11, 1962, when the face area was finally ventilated. The body of the first victim was found at 3:15 a.m. December 8 and the last was brought to the surface at 2:04 p.m. December 11, 1962….

 

“Cause of the Disaster. This disaster was caused by the ignition of a body of methane by friction sparks or electric arc.  The methane had accumulated in a portion of the face development that was not ventilated for a short period of time and was moved over operating equipment when completion of a permanent stopping in the section resulted in a reversal of face airflow.”

 

(United States Mine Rescue Association. Mine Accidents and Disasters. “U.S. Steel Corporation Coal Division, Frick District, Robena No. 3 Mine Explosion. Carmichaels, Green County, Pennsylvania. December 6, 1962. No. Killed – 37.”

 

Newspaper Account

 

Dec 7: “Rescue workers today continued their slow, agonizing effort to reach 37 men trapped by a shattering explosion yesterday afternoon at the Frosty Run Shaft of Robena No. 3 Mine. The number of men trapped underground rose to 37 late this morning, when U.S. Steel Corp. said a recheck of its records showed another man missing. He was identified as Arthur Labons, 37, of Fairbank. A total of 36 men were believed trapped at first.

 

“Rescuers, working desperately against time, still had not reached the blast scene by mid-afternoon, more than 24 hours after the explosion occurred. But some hope was still-held for the men. At 12:30 p.m., Asst. Gen. Supt. James B. Girod of Frick District said that rescue teams were approximately 5,500 feet from the scene where the men were believed trapped. There was no estimate of how long it might take to reach them. The rescue teams had worked their way 5,300 feet from the foot of the shaft down the main haulageway to the mouth of the corridor where the explosion occurred, then went 1,600 feet beyond that to clear dangerous conditions. They then began going down the side corridor. Mr. Girod said that beams were found broken but there were no serious roof falls. He said there were indications of carbon monoxide and that soot

— indicating smoke — had been found on some of the beams. Asked if there was a chance of survival, Mr. Girod said it was “not definable.”….

 

“Anxious relatives, many of them sobbing, kept a sad vigil at the mouth of the U.S. Steel mine in Greene County.

 

“More than 100 persons were taking part in the rescue efforts, 50 of them below the surface, inching their way toward the spot where the men were trapped 650 feet underground. The 37 men “unaccounted for” included a foreman, two assistant foremen, two engineers, a young engineer student trainee, and 31 miners.

 

“Forty-three other men working in other sections of the mine escaped unhurt….

 

“The explosion ripped through the mine at 1:15 p.m. yesterday.

 

“Frosty Run is in the southwest corner of the sprawling Robena complex of mines. It is located near Garards Fort, about six miles from Carmichaels and 15 miles west of Uniontown.

 

“Rescue crews and company officials worked unceasingly throughout the night and this morning in their efforts to reach the trapped men.

 

“A howling blizzard brought rescue difficulties, with many roads in the area drifting shut.

 

“Fire added to the horror of the disaster.

 

“Secretary Evans said the explosion probably was of methane, “quite possibly propagated by coal dust.” He said that crews feeling their way carefully toward the disaster scene found flickering fires, as far as two miles back from the “face” where the blast occurred. Carbon monoxide was detected coming from the ventilation system — usually a sign of fire….

 

“The force of the blast was terrific. It blew out reinforced steel and concrete overcasts — beams about the size of those used in highway overpasses. It smashed stoppings concrete-block baffles used to divert the flow of air — for a long distance back into the mine. The blast was so strong that one miner 2½ miles away was knocked to the ground. Others had their hats blown off. A dense cloud of dust came boiling down the haulageway from the blast scene. Timber legs were knocked out and shoring was left hanging. Power cables were melted by the heat.

 

“The Frosty Run shaft is 525 feet deep. The tunnel drops gradually from 525 to 650 feet at the point where the men were trapped. There was only one exit to the surface….

 

“Operations at the Robena 1, 2 and 3 Mines — employing a total of 1,200 men — ceased immediately upon word o£ the explosion. All of the mines are inter-connected underground, with Frosty Run at the far southwest corner of the complex.

 

“There was a possibility that here actually were two blasts instead of one. The first intimation of disaster, said Frick District Asst. Gen. Supt. James B. Girod, came when the mine fan “went down.” It was put back on the line, and then ten minutes later it went out again. This time it was 45 minutes before the fan could be started and ventilation restored. A cloud of dust boiled back down the haulageway from the disaster scene.

 

“Narrow roads leading to the mine drifted shut in many places as the snowstorm increased in intensity during the night. There were numerous skidding accidents….

 

List of Men Trapped in Robena Explosion [Rearranged alphabetically]

 

Adam Andrews Jr., 45, Uniontown R.D. 4.

Norman A. Benninghoff, 57, McClellandtown R.D. 1

William Blacka, 49, engineer, Clarksville

James, H. Boyd, 43, Carmichaels.

Albert F. Bronakoski, 18, engineering trainee, Bobtown

Nick Caromano, 57…Uniontown

Albert (Biz) Cavalcante, 48…Masontown

Frank Hainzer Jr., 40, Masontown

James W. Hribal, 39, assistant foreman, 32…Carmichaels

Frank Hudock, 51, Oliver

Andrew J. Hvizdos, 47, New Salem

Andrew K. Kanyuch, 55, Carmichaels (Route 88)

John Karlyak, 38, Grindstone

Arthur Labons, 37, Fairbank

Charles Laucher, 49, Leckrone

Alex Marra, 62…Uniontown

John E. Martoncik Jr., 45, Uniontown R.D. 2

Elmer W. McCann, 48…Masontown

Orrin B. McDowell, 46. engineer, Smithfield

Ernest Mollica, 58, Uniontown R.D. 3

Homer F. Pitts, 37…Uniontown.

Samuel Rain, 47, McCellandtown R.D. 1

Frank H. Rifenburg, 51, Masontown

Allen J. Sanner, 49, Hihbs

John M. Sauter, 53, assistant foreman, 47, Uniontown

Charles J. Sebeck, 41, Grindstone R.D. 1

Charles J. Seper, 44…Ronco

George L. Speelman, 58, Uniontown

Hurley C. Stalnaker, 50, Palmer

Michael E. Stanik, 60, Crucible.

John J. St. Clair, 42, maintenance foreman, New Salem

John H. Steech, 60…Masontown Joseph V. Tokish…Carmichaels.

Charles S. Van Divner, 39, Uledi

Russell H. Wright, McCellandtown R.D. 1

Eugene. G. Zuzak, 48, Fairbank

Paul C. Zvolenski, 40, Adah

 

“Wright, Bronakoski, Andrews and Zuzak are single, the others married.”

 

(Evening Standard, Uniontown, PA. “37 Are Still Trapped in Robena No. 3. Mine.” 12-7-1962, pp. 1 and 6.)

 

Sources

 

Bugbee, Percy (NFPA General Manager). “Fire Protection Developments in 1962. Quarterly of the National Fire Protection Association, Vol. 56, No. 3, January 1963, p. 197.

 

Evening Standard, Uniontown, PA. “37 Are Still Trapped in Robena No. 3. Mine.” 12-7-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-9-2014 at: http://newspaperarchive.com/fullpagepdfviewer?img=84552337

 

National Fire Protection Association. “Multiple-Death Fires of 1962.” Quarterly of the National Fire Protection Association, Vol. 56, No. 4, April 1963, pp. 295-317.

 

National Fire Protection Association. Spreadsheet on Large Loss of Life Fires (as of Feb 2003). (Email attachment to B. W. Blanchard from Jacob Ratliff, NFPA Archivist/Taxonomy Librarian, 7-8-2013.)

 

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Mining Safety and Health Research..  Mining Disasters (Incidents with 5 or more Fatalities). NIOSH, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2-26-2013 update. At:  http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/statistics/disall.htm > and http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/statistics/content/allminingdisasters.html

 

United States Mine Rescue Association. Mine Accidents and Disasters. “U.S. Steel Corporation Coal Division, Frick District, Robena No. 3 Mine Explosion. Carmichaels, Green County, Pennsylvania. December 6, 1962. No. Killed – 37.” Accessed 11-9-2014 at: http://www.usmra.com/saxsewell/robena.htm

–188-238  Blanchard range from State breakouts below.

—       230  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow…Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, p1.

—     >224  UPI. “Cold Causes $4 Million Damage to Florida Crops.” Illonian-Star, IL. 12-15-1962, 1.

—       216  UPI. “Death-Dealing Cold Relaxes Grip on U.S…” Bradenton Morning Call, FL. 12-15-1962, p. 1.

—     >191  UPI. “Storms in North Continue.” Sarasota News, FL. 12-14-1962, p. 1.

—     >163  Bridgeport Telegram, CT. “Cold Tightens Grip on Area.” 12-15-1962, p. 1.

—       161  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest …in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–100-150  AP. “Huge Arctic Air Mass Developed Eastern States.” Camden News, AR, 12-13-1962, p.1.[1]

—     >130  Edwardsville Intelligencer, IL. “Area Gets Relief from Weather.” 12-13-1962, p. 1-2.

—       119  UPI. “Cold Cripples Nation…Records Skid; 119…Dead.” Sarasota News FL. 12-13-1962, 1.

—     >104  UPI. “Winter Continues Its Grip.” Washington Evening Journal, IA, 12-12-1962, p.1.

—         94  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

—         86  Pharos Tribune, Logansport, IN. “Cold, Snow Cause of 86 Deaths.” 12-11-1962, 1.

—       >80  Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale. “Thermometers Plunge to Below-Zero…” 12-12-1962, 1.

—       >76  UPI. “Severe Storm.” Brazil Daily Times, IN. 12-11-1962, p. 10.

—       >70  AP. “Cold Covers Wide Area of Nation.” Northwest Arkansas Times. 12-12-1962, p8.

—         57  UPI. “Snow Storm Develops in Midwest.” Anderson Sunday Herald, IN. 12-9-1962, 1.

—         50  Associated Press. “U.S. Weather.” Decatur Daily, AL. 12-10-1962, p. 2.

—         46  AP. “Midwest Snow Removal Slow.” Bridgeport Sunday Post, CT. 12-9-1962, p. 4.

—         41  UPI. “Killer Snowstorm Hits Wide Areas of Nation.” Anniston Star, AL. 12-8-1962, p. 1.

—       >38  AP. “Thousands of Motorists Stranded in Northern Ohio…” Seymour Tribune, 12-8-1962, 1.

—         14  AP. “Snow Covers Wide Area of Eastern U.S.” Northwest Arkansas Times, 12-7-1962, p. 12.

 

Summary of State Breakouts Below:

 

Alabama        (  3-10)                        North Carolina          ( 4 – 5)

Connecticut   (       2)                        North Dakota             (       1)

Florida           (  2-  6)                        Ohio                           (29-38)

Georgia          (15-18)                        Pennsylvania             (     16)

Illinois                        (       7)                        South Carolina          (       7)

Indiana           (     15)                        Tennessee                   (  5 – 7)

Iowa                (       5)                        Texas                         (  1 – 6)

Kansas           (       2)                        West Virginia                        (  5 – 8)

Kentucky       (  6 – 8)                        Wisconsin                  (  2 – 4)

Louisiana       (  6 – 8)

Maine             (       3)

Maryland       (       3)

Massachusetts (     2)

Michigan        (29-32)

Minnesota      (       1)

Mississippi     (  5 – 8)

Missouri         (  5 – 7)

New York       (  7 – 9)

 

Breakout of Winter Snow and Cold-Related Fatalities by State:

 

Alabama        (3-10)

–10  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

—  1  Boaz area. House destroyed by fire spread from fireplace; Dewey Lowe, 65.[2]

—  1  Mobile, Dec 13. Apparent exposure (coroner finding); woman found outside her house.[3]

—  1  Tuscaloosa, Dec 13. Apparent exposure (coroner); Dora Colvin, 40, found in bed.[4]

 

Connecticut   (      2)

–1  Bristol, Dec 10. Heart attack shoveling snow; Leon A. Horne, 64.[5]

–1  Winsted, Dec 10. Heart attack shoveling snow; Lawrence Yorker, 71.[6]

 

Florida           (  2-6)[7]

–6  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–5  UPI. “Death-Dealing Cold Relaxes Grip on U.S…” Bradenton Morning Call, FL. 12-15-1962, p. 1.

–3  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–2  UPI. “Cold Cripples Nation…Records Skid; 119…Dead.” Sarasota News, FL. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

 

Georgia          (15-18)[8]

–26  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–18  UPI. “Death-Dealing Cold Relaxes Grip on U.S…” Bradenton Morning Call, FL. 12-15-1962, p. 1.

–16  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–15  AP. “Record Cold Shatters State Marks.” Thomasville Times-Enterprise, GA. 12-13-1962, p.1.

–14  Fires in record shattering cold wave.

—  1  Freezing (hypothermia and/or exposure); Fitzgerald, GA.

–13  Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, IL. “Polar Air Drops Over South…” 12-13-1962, p. 14.

–12  Blanchard tally from locality breakouts below.

—  3  UPI. “Cold Cripples Nation…Records Skid; 119…Dead.” Sarasota News, FL. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

Breakout of fatalities by locality or cause of death where we have found reporting.

—  5  Dalton, Dec 12. Home fire “as the mercury dropped to zero.”[9] Exploding oil heater.[10]

—  1  Fitzgerald. Dec 13. “…death of a man…was attributed to freezing.”[11]

—  3  Gainesville, Dec 12. Four-room frame home; fireplace start; 3 children.[12]

—  3  Locations not noted, Dec 12. Fires.[13]

 

Illinois                        (  7)[14]

–7  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–7  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–3  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

–3  UPI. “Killer Snowstorm Hits Wide Areas of Nation.” Anniston Star, AL. 12-8-1962, p. 1.

Breakout of Fatalities by Locality and/or Cause (where noted):

–1  Carbondale area. Dec 12. Female passenger, car which “skidded off snow-covered Rt. 13.”[15]

–4  Round Lake Beach, Dec 10. Home fire; overheated space heater; father and 3 children.[16]

–2  Wolf Lake, Dec 12. Carbon Monoxide; two brothers overcome in motel; defective heater.[17]

–3  Locale not noted, Dec 5. “…car skidded on an icy bridge in a wind-driven snow flurry…”[18]

 

Indiana           (15)[19]

–15  AP. “Upstate Area Gets Forecast for New Storm.” Anderson Herald, IN. 12-14-1962, p. 1.

–14  AP. “Huge Arctic Air Mass Developed Eastern States.” Camden News, AR, 12-13-1962, p.1.

–13  Anderson Herald Bulletin, IN. “Mercury” (continued from p. 1). 12-12-1962, p. 6.

–12  Blanchard tally from locality breakouts below.

—  9  Anderson Herald, IN. “More Snow, Zero Readings…” 12-11-1962, p. 1.

–7  Traffic accidents related to the weather.

–2  Heart attacks from over-exertion related to snow removal.

—  9  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

—  9  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

—  8  UPI. “Cold Cripples Nation…Records Skid; 119…Dead.” Sarasota News, FL. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

—  7  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

—  3  UPI. “Killer Snowstorm Hits Wide Areas of Nation.” Anniston Star, AL. 12-8-1962, p. 1.

Breakout of Fatalities by Locality (where noted):

—  1  Bedford area, IN 37. Car skidded on snow-covered road into another car; Robert Sovern.[20]

—  1  Elkhart area, ~Dec 12. Heart attack shoveling snow; Mrs. Ethel Krice, 70.[21]

—  1  Hamilton County north of Indianapolis, Dec 6. Vehicular accident blamed on icy road.[22]

—  1  Indianapolis, Dec 6. Vehicular accident attributed to icy road.[23]

—  1  Lafayette area, Dec 6. “…car hit patch of ice and skidded…” and crashed; Walter Long, 50.[24]

—  1  Mishawaka, Dec 7. Heart attack while cleaning snow from car; John E. Moore, 61.[25]

—  4  South Bend area, Dec 8. Over-worked coal heating stove. kitchen of farmhouse, 17° cold.[26]

—  1  South Bend area, Dec 11. Heart attack shoveling snow; Cecil C. Anderson, 67.[27]

—  1  South Bend, Dec 14. Heart attack shoveling snow; Rev. Van W. Hinckley, 58.[28]

 

Iowa                (    5)

–5  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

Breakout of fatalities by locality:

–2  Adel, Hwy 64, Dec 15. Car slides into truck; grandmother and granddaughter.[29]

–3  Des Moines area, Dec 14. Car crash and icy intersection; three members of farm family.[30]

 

Kansas           (    2)

–2  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–2  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

 

Kentucky       (6-8)[31]

–8  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–8  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–6  UPI. “Cold Cripples Nation…Records Skid; 119…Dead.” Sarasota News, FL. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

–6  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

 

Louisiana       (6-8)

–8  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–8  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–6  Fires “attributed indirectly to the weather…at Hammond and New Orleans.”[32]

–4  Hammond, Dec 13. Home fire, Dorothy Turner children, ages 2 months to 3 years.

–1  Jefferson Parish. “An unidentified man burned to death…”

–1  New Orleans, Dec 13. Clothes ignite from bathroom heater; Charles Heald, 60.

 

Maine             (    3)

–3  Baileyville, US-1 and Rt-3 junction, Dec 8. Car and truck collide on slippery road.[33]

 

Maryland       (        3)

–2  Cavetown area, Washington Co. “…car skidded on snowy Maryland 64…struck…auto.”[34]

–1  Petersville, US 340, Frederick Co., Dec 9. Driver loses control on icy road, hits phone pole.[35]

 

Massachusetts (      2)

–1  West Bolton, Dec 8-9. Lost control of pickup on slippery road, hit tree; Carl B. Eames, Jr.[36]

–1  Westfield, Dec 10. Cars collide during snowstorm; Mrs. Shirley Kowaleski, 34.[37]

 

Michigan        (29-32)[38]

–32  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–29  UPI. “29 Dead Left in Snowstorm’s Wake.” South Haven Daily Tribune, MI. 12-14-1962, p.3.

–26  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1

–25  UPI. “Cold Cripples Nation…Records Skid; 119…Dead.” Sarasota News, FL. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

–25  Blanchard tally from locality breakouts below.

–23  UPI. “Numbing Cold Wave Hits State.” Marshall Evening Chronicle, MI. 12-12-1962, p.1.

–22  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

–21  UPI. “Mercury Dips to Seven Today.” Linton Daily Citizen, IN. 12-10-1962, p. 1.

–20  UPI. “Severe Storm.” Brazil Daily Times, IN. 12-11-1962, p. 10.

–18  UPI. “Snow Storm Develops in Midwest.” Anderson Sunday Herald, IN. 12-9-1962, p. 1.

–18  UPI. “Foot of Snow Blankets Michigan’s Thumb Area.” Holland Evening Sentinel, MI, 12-8-1962, 1.

–17  AP. “Midwest Snow Removal Slow.” Bridgeport Sunday Post, CT. 12-9-1962, p. 4.

–14  UPI. “Killer Snowstorm Hits Wide Areas of Nation.” Anniston Star, AL. 12-8-1962, p. 1.

—  7  UPI. “Storm Brings Michigan to Virtual Standstill.” Marshall Evening Chronicle, 12-7-1962, p. 1.

Breakout of fatalities by locality (where noted):

—  2  Alpena area, US 23, Dec. 7. Car skids out of control into snow plow. Mr. and Mrs. Ramsuer.[39]

—  1  Bay City area, Dec 7. Car drives into read of snow plow; Mrs. Mattie Lubahn, 57.[40]

—  1  Detroit, Dec 7. Heart attack shoveling snow; John Adams, 62.[41]

—  1  Detroit, Dec 7. Heart attack shoveling snow; Arthur Carlson, 72.[42]

—  1  Detroit, Dec 7. Heart attack shoveling snow; John Piszczak, 66.[43]

—  1  Detroit, Dec 7. Heart attack shoveling snow; Mrs. Sophi Piwowarczyk, 81.[44]

—  1  Detroit, Dec 7. Heart attack shoveling snow; Clarence Shaw, 54.[45]

—  1  Detroit, Dec 7. Heart attack soon after his car skidded into another; Harold Sherwood, 67.[46]

—  1  Detroit, Dec 7. Heart attack shoveling snow; Richard Tomkin, 79.[47]

—  1  Detroit, Dec 12. Apartment building fire; maintenance man Robert Hurst, 51.[48]

—  1  Dowagiac, Dec 10. Heart attack while helping husband shovel out their stuck car; Bradfield.[49]

—  1  Flint, Dec 7. Heart attack shoveling snow; Benjamin Sarkis, 67.[50]

—  1  Frankfort, Dec 13. Snow sledding accident; David L. Gonyon, slides into path of car.[51]

—  1  Grand Rapids, Dec 13. Carbon monoxide poisoning. Russell Bauschka, 46, Dade City FL.[52]

—  1  Hamilton, Dec 11. Carbon monoxide poisoning; charcoal fire in quarters of semi-trailer.[53]

—  1  Kalamazoo, Dec 9. Heart attack while shoveling heavy snow; Jack Bockelman, 43.[54]

—  1  Kalamazoo, Dec 13. Heart attack while shoveling snow. Jason Waber, 67.[55]

—  1  Mackinaw City, Dec 7. Heart attack shoveling snow; Dr. Roy W. Hodges, 84.[56]

—  1  Newaygo area, Dec 6. “…car skidded on slippery road…and struck a tree.” Laura Hoffman.[57]

—  1  Peck, Dec 7. Heart attack shoveling snow; Clarence Bowers, age not noted.[58]

—  1  Port Huron, Lake Shore Rd., Dec 7. Car slides out of control into another vehicle; Miller.[59]

—  1  Port Huron, Dec 7; Heart attack shoveling snow; Wasil I. Yeashvich, 75.[60]

—  1  Saugatuck, Dec 9. CO poisoning or heart attack; Bernath Riksen, 54, in running car.[61]

—  1  Wayne, Dec 7. Heart attack shoveling snow; Claude Ettinger, 64.[62]

 

Minnesota      (    1)

–1  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–1  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

 

Mississippi     (5-8)[63]

–8  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

>7  UPI. “Cold Wave…State Assesses Damage.” Delta Democrat-Times, MS. 12-14-1962, p1.[64]

–5  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

 

Missouri         (5-7)[65]

–7  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–6  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–5  Blanchard tally from locality breakouts below.

–4  AP. “Huge Arctic Air Mass Developed Eastern States.” Camden News, AR, 12-13-1962, p. 1.

–3  UPI. “Cold Cripples Nation…Records Skid; 119…Dead.” Sarasota News, FL. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

–2  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

Breakout of fatalities by locality where we have seen noted:

–2  Kansas City, Dec 10. Apparent heart attacks in cars stuck in traffic “badly tangled” by snow.[66]

–2  New Madrid area, Dec 11. Car skids on icy into path of another; couple in skidding car killed.[67]

–1  St. Louis, Dec 12. Hypothermia/exposure; elderly female found frozen in her front yard.[68]

 

New England (10)[69]

–10  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–10  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–2  Connecticut

–3  Maine

–2  Massachusetts

 

New York       (7-9)

–9  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–8  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–7  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

–7  UPI. “Severe Storm.” Brazil Daily Times, IN. 12-11-1962, p. 10.

–7  UPI. “Well, It’s Here…(Winter, that is).” Dunkirk Evening Observer, NY. 12-10-1962, p. 1.

–7  Blanchard tally of fatalities from locality breakouts below.

–4  AP. “Midwest Snow Removal Slow.” Bridgeport Sunday Post, CT. 12-9-1962, p. 4.

–3  Locales not noted, Dec 7-8. AP. “Snowy Deluge Immobilizes Northern Area.” 12-8-1962, 1.

–1  UPI. “Killer Snowstorm Hits Wide Areas of Nation.” Anniston Star, AL. 12-8-1962, p. 1.

Breakout of winter weather-related deaths by locality where we have seen noted:

–1  Cohocton, Dec 8. Snow-sledding accident; sled kits tree; Paul D. Kimball, 11.[70]

–1  Holley, Dec 9. “…crash on an ice-covered bridge.” Myron Perry, 14.[71]

–2  Ithaca area, Rt. 96B, Dec 9. “…car…crashed on an ice-slicked road.” (Lane and Deault).[72]

–1  Maple View, Oswego Co., Dec 12. Boy falls from bike; hit by car; snow-covered Rt. 11.[73]

–1  Middletown, Dec 8. Car skids into barn; David Uhrig, 16, of Westtown killed.[74]

–1  Watertown, Dec 11. Heart attack “while clearing a walk with a snow blower.” Byron Cory. 73.[75]

 

North Carolina (4-5)[76]

–5  AP. “New Cold Front Due Today [in NC].” High Point Enterprise, NC, 12-14-1962, p. 1.

–4  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

Breakout of North Carolina snow and cold deaths by locality where we have found reporting:

–1  Greensboro area, Dec 8. Exposure; Henry A. Hoover, 55, found in woods after freezing night.[77]

–1  Mount Airy, Dec 13. Hypothermia; Jack McHone, 58, found dead in unheated house.[78]

–1  Old Fort, McDowell Co., Dec 11. Exposure; Miss Alice Hendley, 54, outside home.[79]

–1  Locality and cause not noted.[80]

 

North Dakota (       1)

–1  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–1  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

 

Ohio               (29-38)[81]

–38  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–36  UPI. “Warming Trend…Ravages of Winter.” Reflector-Herald, Norwalk, OH. 12-15-1962, 1.

–35  UPI. “Death-Dealing Cold Relaxes Grip on U.S…” Bradenton Morning Call, FL. 12-15-1962, p. 1.

–32  UPI. “Cold Cripples Nation…Records Skid; 119…Dead.” Sarasota News, FL. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

–32  UPI. “Winter Continues Its Grip.” Washington Evening Journal, IA, 12-12-1962, p.1.

–31  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–29  AP. “Ohio Gets Respite; Storm’s Toll is 29.” Middletown Journal, OH. 12-16-1962, p. 1.

–28  Salem News, OH. “‘Warming’ Trend Brings Flurries.” 12-14-1962, p. 1.

–27  AP. “Huge Arctic Air Mass Developed Eastern States.” Camden News, AR. 12-13-1962, p.1.

–26  AP. “N.E. Ohio Battles Six-Foot Drifts.” Wilmington News-Journal, OH. 12-12-1962, p. 1.

–25  AP. “Cold Covers Wide Area of Nation.” Northwest Arkansas Times. 12-12-1962, p. 8.

–22  AP. “Ashtabula Area Buried…Lake Area.” Daily Reporter, Dover, OH, 12-10-1962, p. 1.

–22  Blanchard tally of fatalities from locality breakouts below.

–21  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

–21  UPI. “Severe Storm.” Brazil Daily Times, IN. 12-11-1962, p. 10.

–18  AP. “At Least 18 Deaths Recorded in Ohio.” Hamilton Daily News Journal, OH. 12-8-1962, 1.

–17  UPI. “Snow Storm Develops in Midwest.” Anderson Sunday Herald, IN. 12-9-1962, p. 1.

–16  AP. “Biggest Snows in Years Cover Parts of U.S.” Camden News, AR. 12-9-1962, p. 1.

—  9  UPI. “Killer Snowstorm Hits Wide Areas of Nation.” Anniston Star, AL. 12-8-1962, p. 1.

Breakouts of fatalities by locality where we have noticed a report.

–1  Canton, Dec 7. Hypothermia or exposure (found “frozen” to death). Stephen Leslie, 57.[82]

–1  Canton, Dec 7. Heart attack while shoveling snow; Stephen Strang, 74.[83]

–1  Cleveland, Dec 7. Heart attack while shoveling snow; James Milia, 59.[84]

–1  Cleveland, Dec 14. Carbon monoxide poisoning; defective space heater; Miriam Ray, 45.[85]

–3  Cleveland area, Dec 9-10. Heart attacks from shoveling snow or pushing stalled cars.[86]

–1  Columbus, Dec 11 or 12. Heart attack after car becomes stuck in snow drift; Lulu Beightler, 73.[87]

–1  Findley, Dec 9. Heart attack after shoveling snow; Howard Bibler, 59.[88]

–1  Logan, Dec 8. Heart attack after shoveling snow; Estel Rollins, 53.[89]

–1  Loraine, Dec 7. Heart attack while shoveling snow; James Adam, 57.[90]

–1  Marion, Dec 14. Man, 82, “wandered out into the freezing air, apparently became lost…”[91]

–1  Massillon, Dec 7. Heart attack while shoveling snow; Mrs. Ruth Bickel.[92]

–1  Norwalk, Dec 13. Carbon Monoxide poisoning; gas stove chimney “plugged.” Karl Uther, 75.[93]

–1  Otsego, Dec 9. Heart attack walking through snow to home; George Edward Elliott, 83.[94]

–1  Parma, Dec 11 or 12. Hearth attack from shoveling snow; Bohdan Woycitzky, 50.[95]

–1  Strongsville, Dec 7. Heart attack while shoveling snow; Chester Warner, 46.[96]

–1  Toledo area, Dec 7. Heart attack;; Arthur Matz, 61, attempting to free auto from snowdrift.[97]

–1  Van Wert, Dec 7 or 8. Traffic accident; Barbara Hurley, 20.[98]

–1  Not noted, Dec 7. Pneumonia, Richard Weygandt, 19-mo., “when medical help failed to reach him in time.”

–2  Locales not noted, Dec 12. Heart attacks while shoveling snow.[99]

 

Pennsylvania (16)

–16  Blanchard tally from locality breakouts below.

–14  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

—  6  Times-Democrat, Cullman AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

—  6  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

—  6  UPI. “Snow Storm Develops in Midwest.” Anderson Sunday Herald, IN. 12-9-1962, p. 1.

—  5  UPI. “Killer Snowstorm Hits Wide Areas of Nation.” Anniston Star, AL. 12-8-1962, p. 1.

Breakout of fatalities by locality where we have noticed a report:

–1  Coal Center, Wash. Co., ~Dec 13. Hypothermia; in un-heated home; Jacob Gawalak, ~75.[100]

–1  Duquesne, Dec 9. Heart attack while shoveling snow; Albert Janosko, 48.[101]

–1  Erie, Dec 9. Heart attack driving during snowstorm; Thomas J. Dale, 55.[102]

–1  Erie, Dec 10. Car hits pedestrian on slippery road; Carol Cummings, 17.[103]

–1  Erie, Dec 10. Heart attack “as he trudged through the snow.” John H. Lynch, 55.[104]

–1  Erie, Dec 11. Heart attack while shoveling snow; George Brabender Jr., 43.[105]

–1  Erie County, Dec 13. Heart attack while shoveling snow; Henry P. Klug, 67.[106]

–1  Gardners, Adams Co., Dec 12. Carbon monoxide poisoning in car. Jack H. Orner, 29.[107]

–1  Lewistown, Dec 8. “…car skidded on ice and crashed…” Louis A. Bartell, 29.[108]

–1  Moon Run, Allegheny Co., Dec 9. Heart attack shoveling snow; Howard A. Trussell, 40.[109]

–1  New Castle. Heart attack attributed to exposure to frigid weather; Michael Flak.[110]

–1  Pittsburgh, Dec 9. Heart attack while shoveling snow; Norbert Gareis, 62.[111]

–1  Pittsburgh, Hazelwood section, Dec 9. Heart attack shoveling snow; Michael Kosesar, 43.[112]

–1  Reading area, Rt. 724. Car skids on icy road; hits bridge railing; Mrs. Ruth M. Pappas, 34.[113]

–1  St. Marys, Elk County, Dec 7. Heart attack shoveling snow; John A. Kuntz.[114]

–1  Yukon, Westmoreland Co., Dec 8. Shock from fall and exposure; John M. Rocker, 53.[115]

 

South Carolina (7)

–7  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

 

Tennessee       (5-7)

–7  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–5  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–5  Blanchard tally from locality breakouts; all from only paper, Kingsport Times, we could access.

–4  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

–3  UPI. “Killer Snowstorm Hits Wide Areas of Nation.” Anniston Star, AL. 12-8-1962, p. 1.

Breakout of Tennessee fatalities by locality where we have seen reporting:

–1  Chattanooga, Dec 12. Hypothermia; male, 73, in uh-heated room.[116]

–1  Cumberland County, ~Dec 12. Heart attack while shoveling snow; male.[117]

–1  Franklin, Dec 11. Car skids, overturns on icy highway; woman.[118]

–1  Morristown, Dec 13. Hypothermia; James Owen Stapleton, 56, in un-heated home.[119]

–1  Nashville, Dec 12. Hypothermia; male, 50, sleeping in house with little or no heat.[120]

 

Texas              (1-6)

–6  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–1  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–1  Dallas, Dec 12. Home fire blamed on cold wave; Debbie Gibson, 9.[121]

 

West Virginia            (5-8)

–8  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–5  Blanchard tally based on locality or cause breakouts below.

–3  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–3  UPI. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3.

–3  UPI. “Killer Snowstorm Hits Wide Areas of Nation.” Anniston Star, AL. 12-8-1962, p. 1.

Breakout of West Virginia fatalities by locality where we have seen reporting:

–2  Gilbert, Mingo Co., Dec 6. Jeep slides off slick road onto river bank. Carter and Hatfield.[122]

–1  Princeton, Dec 11. Heart attack clearing snow from car; Mason Schofield, 73.[123]

–1  Locale not noted, Dec 11. Heart attack related to winter weather.[124]

–1  Locale not noted; by Dec 12. “Highway crashes blamed on weather conditions…”[125]

 

Wisconsin      (2-4)

–4  UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.

–1  Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South…Lowest [Temps] in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.

–1  Milwaukee, Dec 13. Heart attack shoveling snow; Erwin Traczewitz, 67.[126]

–1  Watertown, Dec 14; Exposure; Arthur Radtke, 62.[127]

 

Narrative Information

 

Dec 6: “Wintry weather, with strong winds, snow and cold rain, spread across wide areas from the Rockies into the Ohio Valley today. Cold air and light snow extended southward into Tennessee, Alabama, and northern Georgia. The cold air mass had not reached the Atlantic seaboard but rain or showers dampened Florida and most coastal areas from South Carolina to Maine. The Atlantic storm moved northeastward and caused rough seas along the New England coast. Rain fell inland across New England. Cold northwesterly winds carried snow from the upper Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes across the Ohio Valley to the mountains of North Carolina and the Virginia highlands. Snow flurries peppered Atlanta, where the mercury dropped to 30 degrees.

 

“Six inches of snow was on the ground in Akron, Ohio, with five inches during a six-hour period Wednesday night. Three inches fell in Youngstown, Ohio. Highways were snow packed in northeast Missouri between St. Louis and Hannibal. Bowling Green…reported nearly two inches of snow with similar amounts in parts of northern Indiana.

 

“Fog was reported in the Middle and North Atlantic Coast states, the Lower Great Lakes region and in the North Central Pacific Coast states.” (Associated Press. “Cold, Wind, Snow Startle U.S.” Decatur Daily, AL, 12-6-1962, p. 1.)

 

Dec 6: “Nature threw a one-two punch at Maryland today, dumping up to seven inches of snow on Western Maryland and sending tides up to three feet above normal against both shores of Chesapeake Bay. One death was attributed to the snow in Western Maryland. A passenger was killed and the driver was seriously injured when a car skidded on snowy Maryland 64 in Washington County and struck another auto. State Trooper Elmer L. Baum identified the victim as Gamma Lee Doyle of Cavetown, Washington County. The driver, Pauline Evelyn Hayes, 39, also of Cavetown, suffered a punctured lung and was in serious condition in a Hagerstown hospital. The accident happened about 7 a.m. one mile west of Cavetown….

 

“About a foot of water was reported on the roads in the Crapo-Crocheron area of Dorchester County on the Eastern Shore. Two elementary schools, Crapo and Hooper’s Island, were closed. Royal Oak in Talbot County also reported an unusually high tide. Water also was abnormally high at Cambridge. Smith Island, an isolated island off the Somerset Count mainland, reported tides three to four feet above normal.” (Associated Press. “Snowfall 7 Inches in State…One Man Killed.” The News, Frederick, MD, 12-6-1962, p. 1.)

 

Dec 7: “The season’s first major snow-storm left a blanket more than a foot deep across broad areas from the Great Lakes into New York and southward into Tennessee today. Cold weather added to the wintry picture. Temperatures tumbled sharply as gusty winds fanned the snow and cold air in a wide sweep across the Ohio Valley to the Southern Appalachians and Mid-Atlantic Coast. Freezing weather chilled northern Florida.

 

“The late autumn storm was blamed for at least 14 deaths, most of them in traffic accidents on snow-covered highways. Five persons died while shoveling snow — three in Michigan and two in the Cleveland area.

 

“The storm forced the closing of schools in Cleveland and several other northeastern Ohio counties. Cleveland’s Hopkins air port was closed Friday night [Dec 7].

 

“The heavy snow belt extended over Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York state, West Virginia and Maryland with smaller amounts in Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee. Hazardous driving conditions were reported in many parts of the snow belt. The storm dumped 14 inches of snow in Olean, in western New York, where falls ranged from about a foot to five inches.

 

“In Ohio, the heaviest fall also was 14 inches, in Geauga County. Amounts ranged from 5 to 12 inches in Youngstown. About 1,600 homes in Cleveland were without power for a time as snow toppled feeder lines. Highway crews worked through the night to clear snow-clogged roads. In Tennessee, snow measured 10 inches at Newfound Gap in the Smokies and was 4 to 5 inches deep in other mountain areas. Elkins, W. Va., reported 13 inches on the ground. Falls ranged up to eight inches in Michigan and Indiana.” (Associated Press. “Snow Covers Wide Area of Eastern U.S.” Northwest Arkansas Times, Fayetteville, AR. 12-7-1962, p. 12.)

 

Dec 8: “The worst storm of the season eased its grip today, but heavy snows — up to two feet deep — paralyzed hundreds of communities from Indiana to the Appalachians. Skies remained cloudy in the storm area, but the snows had dwindled to flurries and squalls and citizens were cheered by a forecast of only light snow flurries for today.

 

“The storm left at least 41 persons dead, piled drifts 20-feet high, cut off power and communications to many cities and towns and brought traffic to a standstill on all but a few main roads.

 

“Findlay, Ohio, was completely isolated as winds during the night whipped up five-foot drifts. Seven buses hauling passengers to various parts of the country were trapped in the city and about 250 passengers stranded. The county civil defense director said at least 2,000 persons were stranded and roads were not expected to open before noon. The Findlay Knights of Columbus, American Legion, Elks Club and Findlay College provided cots for some of the stranded persons. The mayor of Fostoria, Ohio, declared an emergency when it was learned at least 300 persons in the area were stranded in their cars and trucks. Civil defense and disaster units were organized to get the people to shelter. More than 40,000 homes in Cleveland, Columbus and other Ohio areas were without power as heavy snows knocked down power lines. Ohioans termed the storm the worst since 1954.

 

“Workers trying to unclog the Pennsylvania Turnpike called it the most severe in the history of that superhighway. Late Friday night the 160-mile snowbound section of the turnpike was open and more than 2,000 persons at six service areas were permitted to resume travel.

 

“Cleveland received 15 inches of snow, but the heaviest amount in the state — and the snow belt — was 26 inches in Loran County.

 

“Generally the area from Indiana to Maryland received one to two feet.

 

“Michigan counted 14 persons dead from the three-day storm, Ohio nine, Pennsylvania five, Tennessee, Illinois, Indiana and West Virginia three each and New York one. Most died on snow-packed highways.” (UPI. “Killer Snowstorm Hits Wide Areas of Nation. Death Count at 41.” Anniston Star, AL. 12-8-1962, p. 1.)

 

Dec 9: “With an army of highway crewmen in the vanguard, residents of northern Ohio and western Pennsylvania tackled today the monumental job of digging out from one of the worst snowstorms in years. At least 38 storm-connected deaths were reported, most of them resulting from heart attacks while shoveling snow or from traffic accidents. In Ohio alone there were 16 known deaths.

 

“Thousands of motorists, truck drivers and bus passengers were stranded by the storm that started Thursday [6^th], deposited up to 27 inches of snow and sent drifts as deep as 20 feet. The fortunate found refuge in farmhouses or emergency Red Cross shelters set up in public buildings. Others spent 24 or more hours in their vehicles. On U.S. 21 between Akron and Cleveland, where the granddaddy of all traffic tie-ups developed, Anders Anderssen of Bath, Ohio, a truck driver, told a reporter who came by with a Red Cross team that brought food and drink: ‘I’ve been here since 4:30 p.m. Thursday and have gone exactly three miles. You just sit and sleep. There’s nothing else you can do.’ That was Friday night. The Ohio Highway Patrol estimated 5,000 vehicles were caught in that jam over a 10-mile section of hilly road south of Brecksville. The problem of highway crews was complicated earlier by strong winds that sent drifts across the highway, by stalled vehicles and later Friday night by a freezing rain.

 

“Some 2,000 persons were caught on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, where a 160-mile section was closed four hours. Their vehicles were herded into service areas until crews could get one lane of the turnpike open. The section of turnpike was closed at 1:30 p.m. and wasn’t opened to new traffic until 11:30 p.m. In western Pennsylvania, Mrs. Gertrude Hixon, 25, of R.D. 1, Scottdale, gave birth to a daughter in an automobile stalled in the snow….

 

“Other states hit by the heavy snow and wind were New York, Maryland and Michigan….” (AP. “Biggest Snows in Years Cover Parts of U.S.” Camden News, AR. 12-9-1962, p. 1.)

 

Dec 10: “New snow squalls dumped paralyzing drifts today on parts of Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York, stopping traffic, closing schools and raising the toll of rigorous weather deaths to 50.

 

“The season’s coldest air gripped the nation from the Rockies to the Atlantic Coast and southward to the Gulf shore and Florida, the only section in the area to escape freezing nighttime temperatures.

 

“Northwest winds which continued to bury south and east shores of the Great Lakes in snow also in the Appalachians.

 

“Low temperatures included 9 below zero at International Falls, Minn., and pushed the mercury to 6 above at Bradford, Ill., north of Peoria, and at Flat Top in southern West Virginia. The teens and 20s were common, even in Dixie, with Louisville, Ky., recording a low of 12 above. It was 9 at Chicago and 10 at Cincinnati. The strong cold air push, from Alaska’s arctic fastness and the Yukon, contained more frigid ingredients expected to reach north-eastern areas of the United States Tuesday.

 

“A state of emergency was decreed in South Bend, Ind., near the southern tip of Lake Michigan where 50 St. Joseph County schools remained closed today. More snow fell on a weekend accumulation of 16 inches, which blanketed northeastern Indiana communities.

 

“Eighty schools were shut in southwestern Michigan where Ludington, on Lake Michigan’s east shore, had 30 inches of snow and school bus service was at a standstill. In Kalamazoo, Jack Bockelman, 43, a former Kalamazoo College football here, died of a heart attack Sunday while shoveling the heavy snow.

 

“Twenty to 24 inches of new snow in northeastern Ohio were heaped into four and five-foot drifts by 25-mile winds. Traffic halted on many roads of Ashtabula County on the southern Lake Erie shore, and all road traffic was halted on Pennsylvania’s part of Lake Erie shoreline.” (Associated Press. “U.S. Weather.” Decatur Daily, AL. 12-10-1962, p. 2.)

 

Dec 11: “Snow closed schools and stranded motorists in the North today while freezing air threatened Florida’s multi-million dollar crops today. The icy one-two punch of wintry weather was the second to hit many areas in the eastern half of the nation since last Thursday….Storm-related deaths soared past the 50 mark.

 

“Weather forecasters held no hop of any immediate, general relief. Even colder weather was the unhappy forecast in many areas. And the winter season does not start officially until Dec. 22….

 

“A wind-driven snowstorm forced the closing of the New York State Thruway from Lackawanna, near Buffalo, to the Pennsylvania line. More than 150 persons were forced to abandon autos and trucks along the Thruway and were stranded overnight at a Thruway rest area. About 150 other persons, aided by snow plows and state police, joined in a convoy for a 2½ hour, 15-mile trip from Angola to Buffalo, where the weather was clear.

 

“About 18 inches of fresh snow whirled through the New York region, hitting the area which had been buried by as much as 30 inches of snow last weekend. Winds of 35 m.p.h. whipped the heavy snow into huge drifts. Earlier, more than a foot of snow was dumped across northern New York sections.

 

“Scores of schools remained closed in the snow-stricken sections of northeast Ohio, including all in Cleveland. Up to two feet of fresh snow added to the highway problems. Strong winds continued to pile snow into huge drifts, and more snow was expected during the day. Amounts measured up to 30 inches in some areas….

 

“Blustery, northwesterly winds swept across the Midwest prairies and the Great Lakes region, carrying the cold air east and southward. Chicago’s lowest reading since last winter was near zero — with lower marks tonight.” (Associated Press. “Snow Closed Schools, Stranded Motorists.” Camden News, AR. 12-11-1962, p. 1.)

 

Dec 12: “Unseasonably cold weather and gusty, raw winds held a vice-like grip over most of the eastern two-thirds of the nation today….Record low temperatures were reported in most of the ice belt for the second straight day… In the snow-covered sections of the Northeast, pounded by storms for nearly a week, more heavy snow fell. Weary highway crews struggled to keep the main arteries open. Snow depths measured eight feet in parts of northeastern Ohio.

 

“The main core of the Arctic air centered in the North Central region. Brisk winds powered the sub-zero cold southward to the Gulf Coast and eastward to the Appalachians. Temperatures far below zero were reported in the Dakotas, Minnesota and Wisconsin, ranging to as low as 18 below in Huron, S.D. Below-zero marks were general in the Midwest.

 

“The South shivered in the season’s coldest weather. It was near zero in sections of North Carolina, Kentucky, Arkansas and Tennessee and in mountain areas of northern Georgia and Alabama….” (AP. “Cold Covers Wide Area of Nation.” Northwest Arkansas Times. 12-12-1962, 1.)

 

Dec 13: “A huge mass of arctic air enveloped the entire eastern half of the nation today. The damaging and tragic effects of the prolonged late autumn cold wave and snow-storm mounted. The unseasonably cold weather persisted from the northern borders deep into the South, causing inconvenience to millions….

 

“Deaths in connection with the severe weather in the last week soared to near the 100 mark — with some estimates as high as 150….

 

“The main core of the arctic air was in the northern Gulf states. The mercury plunged to 11 below in Crossville, in eastern Tennessee. Temperatures along the coast dipped to the middle teens. Readings of zero were reported in north Georgia and in mountain areas of Alabama….

 

“More snow fell in the snow-slogged sections of the Northeast and strong winds added to the mountainous drifts. Colder weather swept into the main snowbelt which covered areas along the south and east shores of the Great Lakes In Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York State. Depths ranged up to from 20 to 48 inches after a week of steady snow. Five inches of fresh snow was dumped on Ashtabula County, Ohio….

 

“Zero or below readings extended across areas in Indiana, most of Ohio, sections of Kentucky, Tennessee, Southern Illinois and upstate New York. Zero to 10 above temperatures prevailed in New England except along coastal areas.

 

“The coldest weather in 22 years was reported in Tallahassee, Fla. this morning as the mercury dropped to 14 above. The 23 in Daytona Beach was the lowest ever for December and the coldest day in more than 18 years. It also was 23 in Tampa, the lowest mark in 15 years.

 

“Ohio counted 27 storm-related deaths. The death toll in Indiana was 14. Missouri reported four deaths. Most of the fatalities in connection with the snowstorm and cold were caused in traffic accidents on snow-packed or ice-covered highways or from over-exertion while shoveling snow….” (Associated Press. “Huge Arctic Air Mass Developed Eastern States.” Camden News, AR, 12-13-1962, p. 1.)

 

Dec 14: “A killer cold wave Thursday [Dec 13] turned the suffering Southland into a vast ice box, clamped the bitterest freeze of the century on Florida and rocketed the death toll from an eight-day arctic onslaught above the 160 mark.

 

“New Blizzard snows zeroed in on Great Lakes snow-belt communities that have struggled for a week under paralyzing 5-foot blankets of snow and drifts up to 10 feet deep.

 

“The monstrous cold wave was the worst December blast in history and one of the bitterest ever to grip the eastern half of the nation.

 

“The lowest temperatures of the 20^th century froze most of Florida’s multi-million dollar citrus crop, wiped out much of the sunny peninsula’s vegetable crop and chilled early-bird Miami vacationers. The mercury plunged to 10, coldest reading of the century, at Tallahassee, Fla. It dipped to 12 in Jacksonville, second lowest reading on record there, and to 18.5, an all-time low, at Tampa.

 

“Two Dixie communities froze in the coldest weather in the nation. In the heart of the great cold air mass, the temperature plummeted to 18 below zero at Crossville, Tenn., and 17 below at London, Ky.

 

“Deadly fires touched off by overheated stoves and heaters flared all across the South and booted a death toll already built to alarming proportions by exposure, over-exertion and traffic accidents on snow-packed highways.

 

“Since the onslaught  of the pre-winter snowstorms and the spreading deepfreeze, at least 161 persons had died in weather-attributed mishaps….

 

“Cold weather records, including many that had stood for decades, tumbled by the dozens. New frigid marks included 7 below at Nashville, Tenn., 1 above at Atlanta, Ga., Tupelo, Miss., and Birmingham, Ala., 5 at Montgomery, Ala., 6 at Augusta, Ga., and Ashville, N.C., 8 at Jackson, Miss. And Richmond, Va., 9 at Charleston, S.C., and 10 at Wilmington, N.C., and Mobile, La.

 

“The North warmed up slightly but temperatures held around zero and new snow storms belted sections of Ohio, Michigan, Indiana and New York state.

 

“Blizzard warnings went out for drift-bogged western Michigan and western New York. Civil Defense officials considered declaring western Michigan a disaster area as strong winds clogged the few remaining open rural roads….” (Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South Brings Lowest Temperatures in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1.)

 

Dec 15: “A slight warming trend took place Friday [Dec 14] over most of the eastern half of the country. While temperatures for the most part remained under freezing in the northern portion, it was 30 to 40 degrees warmer there than at midweek.

 

“Some snow fell from the east shore of Lake Michigan to the Atlantic Ocean

 

“In Florida, after two nights of hard freeze over more than half of the state, thousands of workmen harvested frozen citrus fruit before it deteriorated. If picked and processed before deterioration starts, the frozen fruit sill is suitable for juice concentrates.” (Associated Press. “Mercury up in Southeast.” Decatur Daily, AL, 12-15-1962, p. 1.)

 

Dec 16: “…A punishing 10-day blast of snow and cold left the East with more than 230 dead and untold financial cost….The worst freeze of the century severely damaged about 80 percent of a record $500 million Florida citrus crop, wiped out a major portion of the state’s 175,000 acres of vegetables and withered its pastureland.

 

“Scattered snow fell from Minnesota to New York. In Michigan, which bore the brunt of a snowfall that reached depths of 48 inches in some places, freezing rain fell and made driving conditions hazardous again….

 

“The dead from heart attacks, fires, car accidents and other mishaps attributed to the 10-day-old storm numbered 232…” (UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1.)

 

Sources

 

Anderson Herald Bulletin, IN. “Mercury” (continued from p. 1). 12-12-1962, p. 6. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/anderson-herald-bulletin-dec-12-1962-p-46/

 

Anderson Herald, IN. “More Snow, Zero Readings are due Weatherman Says.” 12-11-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/anderson-herald-bulletin-dec-11-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “2 Killed Near Adel, Iowa.” Telegraph-Herald, Dubuque, IA. 12-16-1962, p. 22. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/dubuque-telegraph-herald-dec-16-1962-p-23/

 

Associated Press. “4 Children Die in Indiana Fire.” Register-News, Mt. Vernon, IL. 12-8-1962, p. 2. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/mt-vernon-register-news-dec-08-1962-p-2/

 

Associated Press. “13 Die on Slippery Roads Over Stormy Weekend Here.” Nashua Telegraph, NH. 12-10-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/nashua-telegraph-dec-10-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Ashtabula Area Buried…Lake Area.” Daily Reporter, Dover, OH, 12-10-1962, pp. 1-2. Accessed 11-15-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/dover-daily-reporter-dec-10-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “At Least 18 Deaths Recorded in Ohio.” Hamilton Daily News Journal, OH. 12-8-1962, p.1. Accessed 11-15-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/hamilton-daily-news-journal-dec-08-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Biggest Snows in Years Cover Parts of U.S.” Camden News, AR. 12-9-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-12-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/camden-news-dec-09-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Bitter Cold, Snow Remain in Snowbelts.” Daily Messenger, Canandaigua, NY. 12-12-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/canandaigua-daily-messenger-dec-12-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Cold Covers Wide Area of Nation.” Northwest Arkansas Times. 12-12-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-12-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/northwest-arkansas-times-dec-12-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Cold Draws Blame Indirectly for Three Deaths in Alabama.” Decatur Daily, AL. 12-13-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-11-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/decatur-daily-dec-13-1962-p-1/

 

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Associated Press. “Dies of Heart Attack.” Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. 12-8-1962, p. 5. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/seymour-daily-tribune-dec-08-1962-p-5/

 

Associated Press. “Heavy Snows Keep Highway Traffic Light but 12 Die.” Evening Sun, Norwich, NY. 12-10-1962, p. 8. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/norwich-evening-sun-dec-10-1962-p-8/

 

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Associated Press. “Mercury Climbs; Inventory Begins.” Lake Charles American Press, LA, 12-14-1962, p1. Accessed 11-14-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/lake-charles-american-press-dec-14-1962-p-25/

 

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Associated Press. “Midwest Snow Removal Slow.” Bridgeport Sunday Post, CT. 12-9-1962, p. 4. Accessed 11-12-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/bridgeport-post-dec-09-1962-p-4/

 

Associated Press. “Monoxide Blamed in Cold-Wave Death.” Portsmouth Times, OH. 12-15-1962, p. 18. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/portsmouth-times-dec-15-1962-p-18/

 

Associated Press. “N.E. Ohio Battles Six-Foot Drifts.” Wilmington News-Journal, OH. 12-12-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/wilmington-news-journal-dec-12-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “New Cold Front Due Today [in NC].” High Point Enterprise, NC, 12-14-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/high-point-enterprise-dec-14-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Ohio Gets Respite; Storm’s Toll is 29.” Middletown Journal, OH. 12-16-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/middletown-journal-dec-16-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Only Five Die on Pa. Highways During Weekend.” Lebanon Daily News, PA, 12-10-1962, p. 2. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/lebanon-daily-news-dec-10-1962-p-2/

 

Associated Press. “Raging Storm Shuts Schools, Slows Traffic.” Bradford Era, PA. 12-12-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/bradford-era-dec-12-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Record Cold Grips State. Colder Weather Expected Tonight.” High Point Enterprise, NC. 12-12-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/high-point-enterprise-dec-12-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Record Cold Shatters State Marks.” Thomasville Times-Enterprise, GA. 12-13-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/thomasville-times-enterprise-dec-13-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Relief not in sight.” News-Herald, Willoughby, OH. 12-7-1962, p. 9. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/willoughby-news-herald-dec-07-1962-p-9/

 

Associated Press. “Snow Covers Wide Area of Eastern U.S. Wintry Storm Causes 14 Deaths.” Northwest Arkansas Times, Fayetteville, AR. 12-7-1962, p. 12. Accessed 11-12-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/northwest-arkansas-times-dec-07-1962-p-12/

 

Associated Press. “Snow, Fog Pile up N.E. Toll.” Lowell Sun, MA. 12-10-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-14-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/lowell-sun-dec-10-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Snowfall 7 Inches in State…One Man Killed.” The News, Frederick, MD, 12-6-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-14-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/frederick-news-dec-06-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Snow Closed Schools, Stranded Motorists.” Camden News, AR. 12-11-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-12-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/camden-news-dec-11-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Snowy Deluge Immobilizes Northern Area.” Northwest Arkansas Times, Fayetteville, AR. 12-8-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-12-2018 at:  https://newspaperarchive.com/northwest-arkansas-times-dec-08-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Thousands of Motorists Stranded in Northern Ohio in Big Snowstorm.” Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. 12-8-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/seymour-daily-tribune-dec-08-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Two Deaths Attributed to Weather.” Daily Times-News, Burlington, NC. 12-13-1962, p1. Accessed 11-15-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/burlington-daily-times-news-dec-13-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Two Kansas City Men Collapse, Die in Cars.” Hays Daily News, KS, 12-11-1962, p. 3. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/hays-daily-news-dec-11-1962-p-3/

 

Associated Press. “Upstate Area Gets Forecast for New Storm.” Anderson Herald, IN. 12-14-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/anderson-herald-dec-14-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “U.S. Weather.” Decatur Daily, AL. 12-10-1962, p. 2. Accessed 11-11-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/decatur-daily-dec-10-1962-p-2/

 

Associated Press. “Watertown Paralyzed.” Oswego Palladium-Times, NY. 12-11-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/oswego-palladium-times-dec-11-1962-p-1/

 

Associated Press. “Woman Thrown From Her Car and Killed.” The Era, Bradford, PA. 12-11-1962, p. 2. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/bradford-era-dec-11-1962-p-2/

 

Bridgeport Post, CT. “Mercury Dips to 19 Degrees.” 12-11-1962, p. 2. Accessed 11-12-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/bridgeport-post-dec-11-1962-p-2/

 

Bridgeport Telegram, CT. “Cold Tightens Grip on Area.” 12-15-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-12-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/bridgeport-telegram-dec-15-1962-p-1/

 

Charleston Daily Mail, WV. “Car Overturns, Two Drown in Accident.” 12-7-1962, p. 8. Accessed 11-16-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/charleston-daily-mail-dec-07-1962-p-8/

 

Charleston Daily Mail, WV. “Snow Paralyzes State; Local Hunter Missing.” 12-7-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-16-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/charleston-daily-mail-dec-07-1962-p-1/

 

Charleston Daily Mail, WV. “Zero Reading in City Sets Mark for Date…” 12-12-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-16-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/charleston-daily-mail-dec-12-1962-p-1/

 

Daily Gazette, Sterling-Rock Falls, IL. “Polar Air Drops Over South; Zero Weather in Dixie.” 12-13-1962, p14. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/sterling-daily-gazette-dec-13-1962-p-28/

 

Daily Jeffersonian, Cambridge, OH. “Otsego Man Found Dead in Snowdrift.” 12-10-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/cambridge-daily-jeffersonian-dec-10-1962-p-1/

 

Daily Leader-Times, Kittanning, PA. “Cold Air Flow Envelops State.” 12-11-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/kittanning-daily-leader-times-dec-11-1962-p-1/

 

Delphos Daily Herald, OH. “Mercury Dips to 6 Below Here Today.” 12-12-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/delphos-daily-herald-dec-12-1962-p-1/

 

Edwardsville Intelligencer, IL. “Area Gets Relief from Weather; Others Suffer.” 12-13-1962, p. 1-2. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/edwardsville-intelligencer-dec-13-1962-p-1/

 

Evening Capital, Annapolis, MD. “Two Deaths Attributed to Snow Storm.” 12-7-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-14-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/annapolis-capital-dec-07-1962-p-1/

 

Evening Standard, Brownsville, PA. “Coal Center Man Victim.” 12-14-1962, p. 3. Accessed 11-16-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/uniontown-evening-standard-dec-14-1962-p-6/

 

Evening Sun, Hanover, PA. “Jack H. Orner, 29, Discovered Dead.” 12-13-1962, p. 6. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/hanover-evening-sun-dec-13-1962-p-6/

 

Frederick Post, MD. “Virginia Man Killed as Car Goes off 340.” 12-10-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-14-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/frederick-post-dec-10-1962-p-1/

 

Galesburg Register-Mail, IL. “Snow Falls and Mercury Dips in Galesburg Area.” 12-6-1962, p. 2. Accused 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/galesburg-register-mail-dec-06-1962-p-2/

 

Kingsport Times, TN. “It was 9 Below — Snow, Cold Due.” 12-13-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-16-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/kingsport-times-dec-13-1962-p-1/

 

Kingston Daily Freeman, NY. “4 Die in 11 Weekend Area Mishaps; 16 Hurt.” 12-10-2018, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/kingston-daily-freeman-dec-10-1962-p-1/

 

Lima News, OH. “Snow Causes Man’s Death.” 12-9-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/lima-news-dec-09-1962-p-1/

 

Linton Daily Citizen, IN. “50-Degree Dip Occurs in Week.” 12-7-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/linton-daily-citizen-dec-07-1962-p-7/

 

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, TX. “Panhandle Gets Warmer Temps.” 12-13-1962, p. 10-A. Accessed 11-16-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/lubbock-avalanche-journal-dec-13-1962-p-10/

 

New Castle News, PA. “Frigid Weather Causes Death.” 12-10-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/new-castle-news-dec-10-1962-p-1/

 

News-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI. “His Truck Gets Stuck, Driver dies.” 12-10-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-14-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/benton-harbor-news-palladium-dec-10-1962-p-11/

 

News-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI. “New Snow, 18 Inches Cripples Berrien!” 12-12-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-14-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/benton-harbor-news-palladium-dec-12-1962-p-1/

 

News-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI. “Obituaries…Mrs. Rex [Lois] Bradfield.” 12-11-1962, p. 14. Accessed 11-14-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/benton-harbor-news-palladium-dec-11-1962-p-14/

 

News-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI. “Snow Ends Mild Spell.” 12-6-1962, p. 17. Accessed 11-14-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/benton-harbor-news-palladium-dec-06-1962-p-17/

 

Pharos Tribune, Logansport, IN. “Cold, Snow Cause of 86 Deaths.” 12-11-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/logansport-pharos-tribune-dec-11-1962-p-1/

 

Reflector-Herald, Norwalk, OH. “Gas Fumes Overcome Family, One Dies.” 12-14-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/norwalk-reflector-herald-dec-14-1962-p-1/

 

Salem News, OH. “‘Warming’ Trend Brings Flurries.” 12-14-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/salem-news-dec-14-1962-p-1/

 

Sikeston Daily Standard, MO. “Accident on Icy Road Kills Sikeston Couple.” 112-11-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-14-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/sikeston-daily-standard-dec-11-1962-p-11/

 

Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale. “Creal Springs Woman Dies of Wreck Injuries.” 12-13-1962, p. 3. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/southern-illinoisan-dec-13-1962-p-3/

 

Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale. “Father, 3 Children Die as Home Burns.” 12-10-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/carbondale-southern-illinoisan-dec-10-1962-p-1/

 

Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale. “Thermometers Plunge to Below-Zero…” 12-12-1962, 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/southern-illinoisan-dec-12-1962-p-1/

 

Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale. “Two Brothers Found Dead in Motel Unit.” 12-13-1962, p. 3. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/southern-illinoisan-dec-13-1962-p-3/

 

The Era, Bradford, PA. “Funerals.” 12-11-1962, p. 2. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/bradford-era-dec-11-1962-p-2/

 

The Messenger, Athens, OH. “Logan Area Man Dies After Shoveling Snow.” 12-9-1962, p. 7. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/athens-sunday-messenger-dec-09-1962-p-7/

 

Times-Democrat, Cullman, AL. “Arctic Attack on South Brings Lowest Temperatures in Decades.” 12-14-1962, 1. Accessed 11-11-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/cullman-times-democrat-dec-14-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “4 Traffic Deaths in Indiana.” Linton Daily Citizen, IN. 12-11-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/linton-daily-citizen-dec-11-1962-p-5/

 

United Press International. “29 Dead Left in Snowstorm’s Wake.” South Haven Daily Tribune, MI. 12-14-1962, p. 3. Accessed 11-14-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/south-haven-daily-tribune-dec-14-1962-p-8/

 

United Press International. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, 1. Accessed 11-11-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/zanesville-times-recorder-dec-16-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Cold Causes $4 Million Damage to Florida Crops.” Illonian-Star, Beardstown, IL. 12-15-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/beardstown-illonian-star-dec-15-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Cold Cripples Nation; Florida Hit. Records Skid; 119 are Dead.” Sarasota News, FL. 12-13-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-12-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/sarasota-news-dec-13-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Coroner Rules Death Was Due to Exposure.” Daily Independent, Kannapolis, NC. 12-9-1962, p. 7A. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/kannapolis-daily-independent-dec-09-1962-p-7/

 

United Press International. “Cold Wave Begins to Melt as State Assesses Damage.” Delta Democrat-Times, MS. 12-14-1962, 1. Accessed 11-14-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/greenville-delta-democrat-times-dec-14-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Death-Dealing Cold Relaxes Grip on U.S.; Florida Views Losses.” Bradenton Morning Call, FL. 12-15-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-12-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/bradenton-morning-call-dec-15-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Four Men Dead of Heart Attacks Shoveling Snow.” Daily Courier, Connellsville, PA. 12-10-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/connellsville-daily-courier-dec-10-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “It’s Cold.” Sarasota News. FL. 12-12-1962, p. 3. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/sarasota-news-dec-12-1962-p-3/

 

United Press International. “Killer Snowstorm Hits Wide Areas of Nation. Death Count at 41.” Anniston Star, AL. 12-8-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-11-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/anniston-star-dec-08-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Man freezes in home: wife saved.” Middlesboro Daily News, KY. 2-14-1962, p. 2. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/middlesboro-daily-news-dec-14-1962-p-2/

 

United Press International. “Mercury Dips to Seven Today.” Linton Daily Citizen, IN. 12-10-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/linton-daily-citizen-dec-10-1962-p-7/

 

United Press International. “Milwaukeean Dies Shoveling Snow.” Kenosha News, WI. 12-13-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-16-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/kenosha-news-dec-13-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “More Snow Expected in Region.” Daily Courier, Connellsville, PA. 12-14-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-16-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/connellsville-daily-courier-dec-14-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Numbing Cold Wave Hits State.” Marshall Evening Chronicle. 12-12-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-14-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/marshall-evening-chronicle-dec-12-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Official Low is Three Above.” Linton Daily Citizen. 12-11-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/linton-daily-citizen-dec-11-1962-p-5/

 

United Press International. “Seven Ohio Deaths Blamed on Storm.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-8-1962, p. A-6. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/zanesville-times-recorder-dec-08-1962-p-15/

 

United Press International. “Severe Storm.” Brazil Daily Times, IN. 12-11-1962, p. 10. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/brazil-daily-times-dec-11-1962-p-10/

 

United Press International. “Snow Storm Develops in Midwest.” Anderson Sunday Herald, IN. 12-9-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/anderson-sunday-herald-dec-09-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Storm Brings Michigan to Virtual Standstill.” Marshall Evening Chronicle, 12-7-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-14-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/marshall-evening-chronicle-dec-07-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Storms in North Continue.” Sarasota News, FL. 12-14-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-12-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/sarasota-news-dec-14-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Three Members of Family Killed.” Mt. Pleasant News, IA. 12-15-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-13-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/mount-pleasant-news-dec-15-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Warm air moves in, ends cold.” Chronicle-Telegram, Elyria, OH. 12-15-1962. Accessed 11-15-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/elyria-chronicle-telegram-dec-15-1962-p-20/

 

United Press International. “Warming Trend Shuts off Ravages of Winter.” Reflector-Herald, Norwalk, OH. 12-15-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/norwalk-reflector-herald-dec-15-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Weather Breaks Records in Southland. Below Zero…Many Areas.” Cumberland News MD. 12-13-1962, 1. Accessed 11-14-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/cumberland-news-dec-13-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Well, It’s Here but Definitely (Winter, That Is).” Dunkirk Evening Observer, NY. 12-10-1962, p. 1. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/dunkirk-evening-observer-dec-10-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Winter Continues Its Grip.” Washington Evening Journal, IA, 12-12-1962, p1. Accessed 11-13-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/washington-evening-journal-dec-12-1962-p-1/

 

United Press International. “Yukon Man is Found Dead.” Valley Independent, Monessen, PA. 12-10-1962, p. 5. Accessed 11-15-2018 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/monessen-valley-independent-dec-10-1962-p-4/

 

Van Wert Times-Bulletin, OH. “Worst Snowstorm in Years Ties Up Travel, Utilities.” 12-7-1962, p1. Accessed 11-15-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/van-wert-times-bulletin-dec-07-1962-p-1/

 

Wisconsin State Journal, Madison. “Arthur Radtke, 62, Dies of Exposure.” 12-16-1962, section 2, p. 9. Accessed 11-16-2018: https://newspaperarchive.com/madison-wisconsin-state-journal-dec-16-1962-p-73/

 

 

 

[1] “Deaths in…severe weather in the last week soared to near the 100 mark — with some estimates as high as 150.”

[2] AP. “Cold Draws Blame Indirectly for Three Deaths in Alabama.” Decatur Daily, AL. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[3] AP. “Cold Draws Blame Indirectly for Three Deaths in Alabama.” Decatur Daily, AL. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[4] AP. “Cold Draws Blame Indirectly for Three Deaths in Alabama.” Decatur Daily, AL. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[5] Bridgeport Post, CT. “Mercury Dips to 19 Degrees.” 12-11-1962, p. 2.

[6] Bridgeport Post, CT. “Mercury Dips to 19 Degrees.” 12-11-1962, p. 2.

[7] Two to six deaths reflects the range of reporting we have seen. Unable to find report of any specific deaths.

[8] We do not use UPI number of 26 deaths in that it is significantly higher than reports of 13-18 deaths, and our own count of twelve reported deaths. While looking through newspaper reports on the cold and snow we have seen articles on a number of vehicular-related deaths — but none indicated these were connected to adverse weather.

[9] AP. “Huge Arctic Air Mass Developed Eastern States.” Camden News, AR, 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[10] Thomasville Times-Enterprise, GA. “Faulty Heater Blaze Claims 5 Ga. Victims.” 12-13-1962, p. 1. Victims were Robert Lee Carmon, 29, wife, Lois Marie, 24, baby boy, Tommy, just home from hospital birth, daughters, Bobbie Lynn, 5, and Teena Maria, 20 months.

[11] AP. “Record Cold Shatters State Marks.” Thomasville Times-Enterprise, GA. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[12] AP. “Huge Arctic Air Mass Developed Eastern States.” Camden News, AR, 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[13] AP. “Huge Arctic Air Mass Developed Eastern States.” Camden News, AR, 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[14] Using seven though breakouts total 10; speculating that the four Round Lake Beach fire deaths are not included in the toll of seven deaths, meaning we have not located one death that was included.

[15] Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale. “Creal Springs Woman Dies of Wreck Injuries.” 12-13-1962, p. 3.

[16] Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale. “Father, 3 Children Die as Home Burns.” 12-10-1962, p. 1.

[17] Southern Illinoisan, Carbondale. “Two Brothers Found Dead in Motel Unit.” 12-13-1962, p. 3. Victims identified as James W. Slater, 28 and William R. Slater, 18, both of Loreto, TN. Were found dead in bed at the Davie Motel.

[18] Car with “three youths” went through a guard rail and fell 50 feet into a creek. (Galesburg Register-Mail, IL. “Snow Falls and Mercury Dips in Galesburg Area.” 12-6-1962, p. 2.)

[19] We are using fifteen as death toll even though we have been able to find details for only twelve deaths. The report of 15 deaths is from an Indiana newspaper and we presume their count was accurate.

[20] UPI. “4 Traffic Deaths in Indiana.” Linton…Citizen, IN. 12-11-1962, p. 1. The only death attributed to weather.

[21] Anderson Herald Bulletin, IN. “Mercury” (continued from p. 1). 12-12-1962, p. 6.

[22] Linton Daily Citizen, IN. “50-Degree Dip Occurs in Week.” 12-7-1962, p. 1.

[23] Linton Daily Citizen, IN. “50-Degree Dip Occurs in Week.” 12-7-1962, p. 1.

[24] Galesburg Register-Mail, IL. “Snow Falls and Mercury Dips in Galesburg Area.” 12-6-1962, p. 2.

[25] Associated Press. “Dies of Heart Attack.” Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. 12-8-1962, p. 5.

[26] Killed were four Dover children: Karen Alice Dover, 8; Katherine Joan, 7; Tina Marie, 4; and James Peter Jr., 3. (Associated Press. “4 Children Die in Indiana Fire.” Register-News, Mt. Vernon, IL. 12-8-1962, p. 2.)

[27] UPI. “Official Low is Three Above.” Linton Daily Citizen. 12-11-1962, p. 1.

[28] AP. “Upstate Area Gets Forecast for New Storm.” Anderson Herald, IN. 12-14-1962, p. 1.

[29] UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, p. 1. Victims identified as Mrs. Evelyn Kern, 41 and Lory Kern, 10-months. (AP. “2 Killed Near Adel, Iowa.” Telegraph-Herald, Dubuque, IA. 12-16-1962, p. 22.)

[30] UPI. “230 Persons Died in Snow and Cold.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-16-1962, p. 1. Victims identified as Mella Dykstra, 51 (driver), his wife, Dorothy, 48, and daughter, Dorothy May, 15 — from rural Sibley. (UPI. “Three Members of Family Killed.” Mt. Pleasant News, IA. 12-15-1962, p. 1.)

[31] Range of reporting seen. Unable to locate reports of specific deaths.

[32] Associated Press. “Mercury Climbs; Inventory Begins.” Lake Charles American Press, LA, 12-14-1962, p. 1.

[33] Killed were Mrs. Betty Kneeland, 31, of Baileyville; Miss Mary Dober, 26, of Saint John, N.B.; and Richard Cooper 26 (car driver), of Princeton, ME. (AP. “13 Die on Slippery Roads Over Stormy Weekend Here.” Nashua Telegraph, NH. 12-10-1962, p. 1.)

[34] Associated Press. “Snowfall 7 Inches in State…One Man Killed.” The News, Frederick, MD, 12-6-1962, p. 1. The injured driver, Pauline Evelyn Hays, 39, died later from her injuries. Gamma Lee Doyle, 38. died at the scene. (Evening Capital, Annapolis, MD. “Two Deaths Attributed to Snow Storm.” 12-7-1962, p. 1.)

[35] Frederick Post, MD. “Virginia Man Killed as Car Goes off 340.” 12-10-1962, p. 1. Victim identified as Arthur Rudolph Pape, 74, of Round Hill, VA.

[36] AP. “13 Die on Slippery Roads Over Stormy Weekend Here.” Nashua Telegraph, NH. 12-10-1962, p. 1.

[37] Associated Press. “Snow, Fog Pile up N.E. Toll.” Lowell Sun, MA. 12-10-1962, p. 1.

[38] There may well have been 32 deaths as reported by the UPI on Dec 26. We choose to use a range which includes the highest death toll we have seen in a Michigan paper (on Dec 14). We note accounts of 25 individualized deaths.

[39] UPI. “Storm Brings Michigan to Virtual Standstill.” Marshall Evening Chronicle, 12-7-1962, p. 1.

[40] UPI. “Storm Brings Michigan to Virtual Standstill.” Marshall Evening Chronicle, 12-7-1962, p. 1.

[41] UPI. “Foot of Snow Blankets Michigan’s Thumb Area.” Holland Evening Sentinel, MI, 12-8-1962, 1.

[42] UPI. “Foot of Snow Blankets Michigan’s Thumb Area.” Holland Evening Sentinel, MI, 12-8-1962, 1.

[43] UPI. “Storm Brings Michigan to Virtual Standstill.” Marshall Evening Chronicle, 12-7-1962, p. 1.

[44] UPI. “Foot of Snow Blankets Michigan’s Thumb Area.” Holland Evening Sentinel, MI, 12-8-1962, 1.

[45] UPI. “Storm Brings Michigan to Virtual Standstill.” Marshall Evening Chronicle, 12-7-1962, p. 1.

[46] UPI. “Foot of Snow Blankets Michigan’s Thumb Area.” Holland Evening Sentinel, MI, 12-8-1962, 1.

[47] UPI. “Storm Brings Michigan to Virtual Standstill.” Marshall Evening Chronicle, 12-7-1962, p. 1.

[48] UPI. “Numbing Cold Wave Hits State.” Marshall Evening Chronicle. 12-12-1962, p. 1.

[49] News-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI. “Obituaries…Mrs. Rex [Lois] Bradfield.” 12-11-1962, p. 14.

[50] UPI. “Foot of Snow Blankets Michigan’s Thumb Area.” Holland Evening Sentinel, MI, 12-8-1962, 1.

[51] UPI. “29 Dead Left in Snowstorm’s Wake.” South Haven Daily Tribune, MI. 12-14-1962, p. 3.

[52] UPI. “29 Dead Left in Snowstorm’s Wake.” South Haven Daily Tribune, MI. 12-14-1962, p. 3. Notes: Authorities said he [Bauschka] had placed charcoal heaters in his truck in an effort to keep a load of limes from freezing. He stayed in the cab of the truck to tend the heaters.”

[53] News-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI. “New Snow, 18 Inches Cripples Berrien!” 12-12-1962, p. 1. SC trucker.

[54] Associated Press. “U.S. Weather.” Decatur Daily, AL. 12-10-1962, p. 2.

[55] UPI. “29 Dead Left in Snowstorm’s Wake.” South Haven Daily Tribune, MI. 12-14-1962, p. 3.

[56] UPI. “Foot of Snow Blankets Michigan’s Thumb Area.” Holland Evening Sentinel, MI, 12-8-1962, 1.

[57] News-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI. “Snow Ends Mild Spell.” 12-6-1962, p. 17.

[58] UPI. “Foot of Snow Blankets Michigan’s Thumb Area.” Holland Evening Sentinel, MI, 12-8-1962, 1.

[59] UPI. “Storm Brings Michigan to Virtual Standstill.” Marshall Evening Chronicle, 12-7-1962, p. 1.

[60] UPI. “Foot of Snow Blankets Michigan’s Thumb Area.” Holland Evening Sentinel, MI, 12-8-1962, 1.

[61] News -Palladium, MI. “His Truck Gets Stuck, Driver dies.” 12-10-1962, p. 1. “A 54-year-old Holland man was found dead early yesterday in a pickup truck that apparently had become stuck in the snow…Bernath Riksen was discovered at 2:30 a.m. Sunday parked at a restaurant on US-31, a mile north of Saugatuck. His vehicle’s motor was running and its rear wheels were sunk about five inches in the snow. The man, who reportedly suffered from a hear condition, died of either a coronary attack or carbon monoxide poisoning, in the opinion of the medical examiner. Police found a lead in the truck’s exhaust system. No post mortem will be performed.”

[62] UPI. “Foot of Snow Blankets Michigan’s Thumb Area.” Holland Evening Sentinel, MI, 12-8-1962, 1.

[63] Range of reporting seen. Unable to locate reports of specific deaths.

[64] “Jackson (UPI)–The mercury began to break past the freezing mark today, ending a cold wave which gripped Mississippi for three days and caused at least seven deaths.”

[65] Could well have been six or seven weather-related deaths. Our range reflects number of identified deaths as low-end of the range and reported totals as the high-end.

[66] Joseph L. Rosenthal, 72; Charles F. Shortal, 60. (AP. “Two Kansas City Men Collapse, Die in Cars.” Hays Daily News, KS, 12-11-1962, p. 3.)

[67] Sikeston Daily Standard, MO. “Accident on Icy Road Kills Sikeston Couple.” 112-11-1962, p. 1.

[68] UPI. “Weather Breaks Records in Southland. Below Zero…Many Areas.” Cumberland News MD. 12-13-1962, 1.

[69] Highlighting in yellow to denote we do not include in our tally — using State listings instead. We have seen notices of more than ten deaths, particularly early on the first weekend of this weather — traffic accidents, pedestrians killed by cars, a fire and a hunting accident — but we have included only those specifically attributing a death to weather conditions.

[70] AP. “Heavy Snows Keep Highway Traffic Light but 12 Die.” Evening Sun, Norwich, NY. 12-10-1962, p. 8.

[71] UPI. “Well, It’s Here but Definitely (Winter, That Is).” Dunkirk Evening Observer, NY. 12-10-1962, p. 1.

[72] Lawrence L. Lane, Jr., 18, and Margaret Deault, 18. (UPI. “Well, It’s Here but Definitely (Winter, That Is).” Dunkirk Evening Observer, NY. 12-10-1962, p. 1.)

[73] AP. “Bitter Cold, Snow Remain in Snowbelts.” Daily Messenger, Canandaigua, NY. 12-12-1962, p. 1.

[74] Kingston Daily Freeman, NY. “4 Die in 11 Weekend Area Mishaps; 16 Hurt.” 12-10-2018, p. 1.

[75] Associated Press. “Watertown Paralyzed.” Oswego Palladium-Times, NY. 12-11-1962, p. 1.

[76] UPI on Dec 16 notes four deaths. AP on Dec 14 notes five. We have found references to three specific deaths.

[77] UPI. “Coroner Rules Death Was Due to Exposure.” Daily Independent, Kannapolis, NC. 12-9-1962, p. 7A.

[78] Associated Press. “Two Deaths Attributed to Weather.” Daily Times-News, Burlington, NC. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[79] AP. Record Cold Grips State. Colder Weather Expected Tonight.” High Point Enterprise, NC. 12-12-1962, p. 1.

[80] Associated Press. “Two Deaths Attributed to Weather.” Daily Times-News, Burlington, NC. 12-13-1962, p. 1. Notes “at least two deaths.” Provides information on only one.

[81] While there is a wide range of reporting on fatalities, of which we have been able to identify 22, we place the low-end of our range at 29 in that this is the total noted by the AP in an OH paper on Dec 16. A UPI article, also on Dec 16 in an OH paper, has the tally at 38, which we use for the high-end of our range. We speculate that the difference has to do with the inclusion or not of a number of fire deaths and vehicular accident deaths we have read about in our review of OH papers, but which were not directly attributed to the winter weather in the reports we read.

[82] UPI. “Seven Ohio Deaths Blamed on Storm.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-8-1962, p. A-6.

[83] UPI. “Seven Ohio Deaths Blamed on Storm.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-8-1962, p. A-6.

[84] Associated Press. “Relief not in sight.” News-Herald, Willoughby, OH. 12-7-1962, p. 9.

[85] Associated Press. “Monoxide Blamed in Cold-Wave Death.” Portsmouth Times, OH. 12-15-1962, p. 18.

[86] Associated Press. “Ashtabula Area Buried…Lake Area.” Daily Reporter, Dover, OH, 12-10-1962, pp. 1-2.

[87] Delphos Daily Herald, OH. “Mercury Dips to 6 Below Here Today.” 12-12-1962, p. 1.

[88] Lima News, OH. “Snow Causes Man’s Death.” 12-9-1962, p. 1.

[89] The Messenger, Athens, OH. “Logan Area Man Dies After Shoveling Snow.” 12-9-1962, p. 7.

[90] UPI. “Seven Ohio Deaths Blamed on Storm.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-8-1962, p. A-6.

[91] UPI. “Warm air moves in, ends cold.” Chronicle-Telegram, Elyria, OH. 12-15-1962. Victim identified as Roscoe V. Roller. (Associated Press. “Ohio Gets Respite; Storm’s Toll is 29.” Middletown Journal, OH. 12-16-1962, p. 1.)

[92] UPI. “Seven Ohio Deaths Blamed on Storm.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-8-1962, p. A-6.

[93] Reflector-Herald, Norwalk, OH. “Gas Fumes Overcome Family, One Dies.” 12-14-1962, p. 1.

[94] Daily Jeffersonian, Cambridge, OH. “Otsego Man Found Dead in Snowdrift.” 12-10-1962, p. 1.

[95] Associated Press. “N.E. Ohio Battles Six-Foot Drifts.” Wilmington News-Journal, OH. 12-12-1962, p. 1.

[96] Associated Press. “Relief not in sight.” News-Herald, Willoughby, OH. 12-7-1962, p. 9.

[97] Van Wert Times-Bulletin, OH. “Worst Snowstorm in Years Ties Up Travel, Utilities.” 12-7-1962, p. 1.

[98] UPI. “Seven Ohio Deaths Blamed on Storm.” Times Recorder, Zanesville, OH. 12-8-1962, p. A-6.

[99] Associated Press. “Cold Covers Wide Area of Nation.” Northwest Arkansas Times. 12-12-1962, p. 1.

[100] Evening Standard, Brownsville, PA. “Coal Center Man Victim.” 12-14-1962, p. 3.

[101] UPI. “Four Men Dead of Heart Attacks Shoveling Snow.” Daily Courier, Connellsville, PA. 12-10-1962, p. 1.

[102] Associated Press. “Raging Storm Shuts Schools, Slows Traffic.” Bradford Era, PA. 12-12-1962, p. 1.

[103] Daily Leader-Times, Kittanning, PA. “Cold Air Flow Envelops State.” 12-11-1962, p. 1.

[104] Associated Press. “Raging Storm Shuts Schools, Slows Traffic.” Bradford Era, PA. 12-12-1962, p. 1.

[105] Associated Press. “Raging Storm Shuts Schools, Slows Traffic.” Bradford Era, PA. 12-12-1962, p. 1.

[106] UPI. “More Snow Expected in Region.” Daily Courier, Connellsville, PA. 12-14-1962, p. 1.

[107] Evening Sun, Hanover, PA. “Jack H. Orner, 29, Discovered Dead.” 12-13-1962, p. 6.

[108] Assoc. Press. “Only Five Die on Pa. Highways During Weekend.” Lebanon Daily News, PA, 12-10-1962, p2.

[109] UPI. “Four Men Dead of Heart Attacks Shoveling Snow.” Daily Courier, Connellsville, PA. 12-10-1962, p. 1.

[110] New Castle News, PA. “Frigid Weather Causes Death.” 12-10-1962, p. 1.

[111] UPI. “Four Men Dead of Heart Attacks Shoveling Snow.” Daily Courier, Connellsville, PA. 12-10-1962, p. 1.

[112] UPI. “Four Men Dead of Heart Attacks Shoveling Snow.” Daily Courier, Connellsville, PA. 12-10-1962, p. 1.

[113] Associated Press. “Woman Thrown From Her Car and Killed.” The Era, Bradford, PA. 12-11-1962, p. 2.

[114] The Era, Bradford, PA. “Funerals.” 12-11-1962, p. 2.

[115] UPI. “Yukon Man is Found Dead.” Valley Independent, Monessen, PA. 12-10-1962, p. 5.

[116] UPI. “Winter Continues Its Grip.” Washington Evening Journal, IA, 12-12-1962, p.1.

[117] Kingsport Times, TN. “It was 9 Below — Snow, Cold Due.” 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[118] Kingsport Times, TN. “It was 9 Below — Snow, Cold Due.” 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[119] His wife was near death when the couple was found in a house with no heat for two days “while temperatures dropped to five below zero.” UPI. “Man freezes in home: wife saved.” Middlesboro Daily News, KY. 2-14-1962, 2.

[120] Kingsport Times, TN. “It was 9 Below — Snow, Cold Due.” 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[121] Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, TX. “Panhandle Gets Warmer Temps.” 12-13-1962, p. 10-A.

[122] Rufus Carter, 45, of Justice, Mingo County, and Joe Hatfield, 11, of Coal Mountain, Wyoming County. Charleston Daily Mail, WV. “Car Overturns, Two Drown in Accident.” 12-7-1962, p. 8; also. Charleston Daily Mail. “Snow Paralyzes State…” 12-7-1962, p. 1.

[123] Charleston Daily Mail, WV. “Zero Reading in City Sets Mark for Date…” 12-12-1962, p. 1.

[124] Charleston Daily Mail, WV. “Zero Reading in City Sets Mark for Date…” 12-12-1962, p. 1.

[125] Charleston Daily Mail, WV. “Zero Reading in City Sets Mark for Date…” 12-12-1962, p. 1. Article notes three such deaths, but we already show two vehicular deaths in Gilbert, which we presume are included in the three.

[126] UPI. “Milwaukeean Dies Shoveling Snow.” Kenosha News, WI. 12-13-1962, p. 1.

[127] Wisconsin State Journal, Madison. “Arthur Radtke, 62, Dies of Exposure.” 12-16-1962, section 2, p. 9.

–25 AirDisaster.Com. Accident Database. Accident Synopsis 11301962.
–25 CAB. AAR. Eastern Air Lines…New York Inter. Airport, Jamaica, NY, Nov 30, 1962.
–25 Eckert. “Fatal commercial air transport crashes, 1924-1981.” AJ of FM & P, 3/1, Mar 1982, Table 1
–25 NFPA. “Multiple-Death Fires of 1962. Quarterly of the NFPA, V56, N4, Apr 1963, p. 295.

Narrative Information

Civil Aeronautics Board Synopsis: “Flight 512, regularly scheduled from Charlotte, North Carolina, non-stop to New York International Airport, entered a fog condition near the threshold of runway 4R. A go-around was initiated; however, the aircraft struck the ground in a slightly nose-high attitude and was virtually destroyed by impact and subsequent fire.

Investigation “Eastern Air Lines (EAL) Flight 512, a Douglas J-7B, N 815D, a regularly scheduled passenger flight from Charlotte, North Carolina, nonstop to New York International Airport (Idlewild), crashed at approximately 2145 on November 30, 1962. Flight 512 was attempting a go-around following an instrument approach to runway 4R at Idlewild. Of the 51 persons aboard, 21 passengers, 3 crew members and an additional crew member occupying the jump seat did not survive….

“Flight 512 departed Charlotte at 1941…

“The Idlewild forecast was amended at 1927 by the Weather Bureau. This amended forecast was to be valid for the period from 1940 to 0600; it called for ‘ceiling zero obscuration, visibility zero, fog, variable to clear, visibility 1½ miles ground fog.’ There is no evidence that Flight 512 was advised of this forecast.

“Following a chronological sequence, the next events o relevance occurred at the Idlewild Airport. At about 2015 the TEL-autograph transceivers in the FAA control tower cab and IFR room became inoperative. This equipment is utilized to communicate written weather information between the Weather Bureau office and the control tower cab and IFR room. Also, it was discovered that the direct voice communication line (hot line) between the control tower and the Weather Bureau was inoperative.

“At 2023 the flight was advised by EAL flight dispatch that ‘If Idlewild below on arrival, you are cleared to Philadelphia . . . .’ EAL 512 acknowledged this message and during the ensuing conversation was informed ‘. . . several other flights diverting to Newark.’….

“By 2045 the flight was in radio communication with the New York ARTCC on VHF frequency 123 6 and was then cleared to the Sandy Hook holding pattern at 11,000 feet. At 2052, an Expected Approach Clearance (EAC) time of 2207 was issued to EAL 512 and acknowledged. At 2057, detailed holding instructions were issued to the flight with the advice: ‘ . . .delay indefinite due to weather.’….

“EAL 512 was laddered down to 6,000 feet in the Sandy Hook holding pattern, and, at 2133, the flight was identified on radar and was given radar vectors to the ILS final approach course. At about this time, the last weather report available to EAL 512 was broadcast by Idlewild Approach Control to all aircraft: ‘…sky partially obscured; visibility one mile with ground fog; and wind is northeast at six, altimeter setting 30.31.’ At 2134, American Airlines Flight 910, a turbojet aircraft, landed on runway 4R.

“The Idlewild Weather Bureau observer recorded a special weather observation at 2136 which described the official visibility as 3/4 mile and contained the following notation in the remarks section: ‘surface visibility 1/4 mile.’ Shortly thereafter, at 2137, Trans World Airlines Flight 46, a turbojet aircraft, landed on runway 4R. At 2139:11, EAL 512 was advised of its position as nine miles southwest of the ILS outer marker and was instructed, to contact the tower on 119.1. At 2139:59, Approach Control gave a new weather broadcast of 3/4 mile visibility in ground fog on frequency 119.7. At about 2139, UAL Flight 950, at DC-7 aircraft, landed on runway 4R….

“As EAL 512 was approaching the outer marker, at 2141, UAL Flight 164 was landing on runway 4R. The captain of UAL 164 described his landing as follows: ‘Either at or shortly after passing the outer marker the glow of the approach lights was visible through the fog…The flight was, until this point, made in clear air with clear skies above. Lights were clearly visible either on or very near the airport. Prior to reaching the middle marker, the threshold lights were observed…Landing was effected at 2141 EST in visibility that I would judge to be somewhat less than 3/4 mile. An accurate appraisal of visibility during the last 20 feet before touchdown was virtually impossible due to the brilliance of the runway lighting.’ At approximately this time, a Sabena turbojet aircraft, located on the ground at Idlewild one mile northwest of the threshold of runway 4R, was cleared for takeoff on runway 7R. The Sabena crew informed the control tower on VHF radio frequency 119.1 that visibility was ‘…a bit too poor…’ and, requested a delay….

“At 2143, the local controller cleared EAL 512 to land. The crew then acknowledged with ‘OK, dim the flashers.’ The tower controller replied: ‘Roger, I have to shut them off.’ He then turned off the flashers. This was the last radio contact with EAL 512….At this time, the RVR recorder trace in the Weather Bureau office indicated the runway 4R visibility was virtually zero. This information was available to the Weather Bureau observer but was not communicated to the tower personnel.

“The crew of EAL 512 did not report the runway in sight passing the middle marker, a required report. Two tower controllers observed the red rotating beacon light on the aircraft disappear in a fog condition 1/2 mile from the end, of runway 4R. At 2144 the local controller requested that EAL 512 advise when it was clear of runway 4R. There was no response….

“At approximately 2145, tower personnel observed a bright orange flash emanating from the vicinity of the PAR antenna building which is located approximately 400 feet to the left and 4,200 feet beyond the threshold of runway 4R. Emergency procedures were immediately initiated by the tower personnel. American Airlines Flight 8, which had just reported passing the outer marker, asked ‘…we got a bright light ahead of us, appears near the airport – you got any information?’ The tower requested that they overfly the runway and report. While over the runway, American 8 advised ‘…Runway four right appears to be clear, we got a fire in sight down there…to the left of the runway.’

“EAL 512 crashed approximately 2,500 feet beyond the ILS touchdown point 9 on the left side of runway 4R at 2145….Breakup of the wings and fuselage occurred on a mound of earth approximately 3 feet high, located 3,600 feet from the threshold center of runway 4R, on a bearing of 37 degrees. The left wing failed near the wing root, between the Nos. 1 and 2 engine nacelles, and at the tip. The left wing fuel tanks ruptured, resulting in ground fire which burned a large area just beyond the mound. The right wing separated at the wing root with portions of the upper and lower fuselage skin fairing and structure still attached.

“The aircraft fuselage separated at impact in the vicinity of the aft wing spar with the forward portion coming to rest 90 degrees to the wreckage path. This break occurred approximately at the cabin partition between the forward tourist and aft first-class sections. All survivors, 6 tourist, 18 first-class passengers and 2 stewardesses, exited through the main passenger door, aft emergency exit door or windows, or through breaks in the fuselage. They reported seeing fire from the wings immediately on impact, followed by fire inside the cabin a few seconds later. As a result of this fire both stewardesses, who had been seated in the aft lounge, were unable to see forward of the galley area by the main loading door….

“Analysis The information furnished to EAL 512 did indicate that the weather situation at Idlewild was deteriorating. These reports included notification of indefinite delays due to weather; alternate airport information; that company traffic missed an approach and that the visibility was one mile when the flight departed Sandy Hook holding pattern. The information contained in the remarks section of the Weather Bureau observations which indicated that the ‘surface visibilities’ were less than the reported official visibility were not furnished to the crew of EAL 512….

“Owing to the vertical and horizontal separation of the tower cab from the approach end of runway 4R, the tower visibility observation was not representative of the condition along the runway. However, since the tower RVR was considered inoperative, the governing visibility factor applicable to landing minimums of 1/2 mile visibility was that observed by the tower controller. It was on this basis that the airport remained ‘above minimums’ while EAL 512 attempted an approach.

“There were two indications of poor visibility which the crew of EAL 512 should have heard during their approach. The crew of an aircraft clearing the runway reported experiencing visibility of 50-60 feet. In addition, the jet flight awaiting departure from runway 7R requested a takeoff delay for weather improvement. These transmissions all took place on tower frequency, which EAL 512 had been instructed to monitor shortly prior thereto. However, if the crew of EAL 512 was aware of these reports, the knowledge that company traffic had landed immediately ahead of them, at 2144, could have offset any apprehension they may have had regarding the successful completion of their approach….

“The ‘surface visibility’ observations of the Weather Bureau were not communicated by the FAA tower personnel to EAL 512 on any recorded communications frequency. Tower personnel stated that the Weather Bureau observations for the period 2108 to 2150 were not received by them. The Weather Bureau observer at Idlewild did not recall specifically advising any person in the control tower of the ‘surface visibility.’ He said: ‘I do not remember sending out any observation. The only thing I can say is I do not remember not sending out any observations.’….

“The amount of power application and, the degree of aircraft rotation used by the crew of EAL 512 should have been adequate to accomplish the pull-out, had, the flaps and gear remained extended. However, inasmuch as flap and gear retraction was effected prior to establishing a positive rate of climb, either one of two actions by the crew would have precluded the aircraft settling into the ground:

1. Additional aircraft rotation, commensurate with the power utilized.

2. Use of the remaining power available.

“The Board concludes that additional aircraft rotation was not effected due to a lack of immediate instrument orientation, and that additional power was either not requested, or delayed because of other duties.

“The Board determines the probable cause of this accident was the technique employed by the crew during abandonment of the approach under fog conditions not adequately reported.”

Recommendations

“Following this accident the Board sent recommendations to the Federal Aviation Agency and the United States Weather Bureau. These recommendations and the responses thereto were as follows:

1. It was recommended that the Air Traffic Control procedures require the transmission of all operationally significant weather information in terminal areas to approaching aircraft. The FAA, by letter dated January 8, 1963, stated that the necessary procedural changes were being prepared.

2. It was recommended that the RVR instrumentation in the recently commissioned IFR room of the Idlewild tower was inadequate. Also, the Board requested a study of the physical arrangements in all towers where PAR is installed. On January 11, 1963, the FAA stated that corrective action was being taken and that a new program would permit installation of five RVR indicators in a tower facility.

3. The Weather Bureau was informed that the staffing plan of the Weather Bureau Airport Station at Idlewild was inadequate to maintain proper surveillance of all the weather recording devices available. On January 8, 1963, the Weather Bureau indicated, that corrective action would be taken.” (CAB.AAR. Eastern Air…NY…Jamaica, NY, 30Nov1962.)

Sources

AirDisaster.Com. Accident Database. Accident Synopsis 11301962. Accessed at: http://www.airdisaster.com/cgi-bin/view_details.cgi?date=11301962&reg=N815D&airline=Eastern+Air+Lines

Civil Aeronautics Board. Aircraft Accident Report. Eastern Air Lines, Inc., DC-7B, N 815D, New York International Airport, Jamaica, New York, November 30, 1962. Washington, DC: CAB (File No. 1.0033), October 10, 1963, 30 pages. Accessed at: http://dotlibrary1.specialcollection.net/scripts/ws.dll?file&fn=8&name=*P%3A%5CDOT%5Cairplane%20accidents%5Cwebsearch%5C113062.pdf

Eckert, William G. “Fatal commercial air transport crashes, 1924-1981.” American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology, Vol. 3, No. 1, March 1982, Table 1.

National Fire Protection Association. “Multiple-Death Fires of 1962. Quarterly of the National Fire Protection Association, Vol. 56, No. 4, April 1963, p. 295.