Oct. 4: 100-Year Anniversary Of Sayreville Gillespie Explosion

PISCATAWAY, NJ — Calling all history buffs! This is your last chance to be part of the Middlesex County Office of Arts and History’s event series honoring the WWI centennial. This final event will feature a lecture tonight on the 100-year anniversary of “The Morgan Explosion."

This free event is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. at the Rutgers Visitor Center, 100 Sutphen Rd., Piscataway, New Jersey.

On Oct. 4, 1918, at 7:30 p.m. an explosion occurred at the T.A Gillespie Company Shell Loading Plant in the Morgan section of Sayreville, NJ. The chain reaction that occurred would leave hundreds dead and hundreds of buildings destroyed. Sayreville, South Amboy and Perth Amboy were evacuated, leaving tens of thousands of people homeless. Above is a photo of people, many of them poor and recent immigrants to America, being evacuated.

The Gillespie Shell Company was preparing ammunition to be used in World War I.

Join author and historian Randall Gabrielan for a presentation Thursday night on the 100th anniversary of this tragic event.

“This event is a tribute to those lost in the explosion, and those who lived through its hardships,” said Middlesex County Freeholder Director Ronald G. Rios. “Middlesex County’s history is rich and layered with medical and engineering breakthroughs, significant war battles and unfortunately mass tragedies. It’s so very important to learn about all these aspects of life here in Middlesex County as we live in the present and prepare for the future.”

“This series of events has been a great way to honor our local and State role in a crucial time in American history,” said Freeholder Kenneth Armwood, chair of the County’s Business Development and Education Committee. “Don’t miss your last chance to take part in this informative series.”

Before the lecture, be sure to stop by the main exhibit: "Over There, Over Here: New Jersey During World War I," at the Cornelius Low House. It will be open until 6:30 p.m. Explore the story, from the battlefield to the home front, in a milestone exhibit showcasing an array of artifacts. Access to the Low House is from the same parking lot #48 as the Rutgers Visitor Center.

For more information about this and other programs, access our mobile site by texting ‘CULTURE’ to 56512 or call 732-745-3030, ext. 310.

Funding for “The Morgan Explosion Centennial” is provided in part by the Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the New Jersey Historical Commission/New Jersey Department of State.

Information and photos provided by Middlesex County Office of Communication.