On New Year’s Day 1963, warm temperatures and heavy rain caused an increase in water levels and rushing ice on Southwest River which lead to the collapse of the Port Blandford causeway. Before residents could get to the scene and stop traffic, two vehicles fell into the swirling waters resulting in the deaths of two residents of Musgravetown and three residents of Port Blandford.
The bodies of Gordon Burden (46), Doreen Burden (17), and Alice Maude Garrett (53) were recovered on January 5. Funeral services were held at the Anglican Church in Port Blandford on January 6. The body of Harry Skiffington (20) washed ashore on March 23 and the body of Robert Skiffington (46) was found by causeway workers on March 26.
Work on the bridge started January 7 and quick repairs were necessary as this was the only road connecting St. John’s with Port aux Basques. Work crews reconstructed the bridge by working from both ends at the same time and it was officially opened on January 24, 1963.
On June 27th The Causeway Memorial Park was opened and dedicated to those who lost their lives in this Tragedy.
Please bring a pencil to sign the log.