Today, 15th September back in 1830, saw the opening of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway. But, far from celebrations, it also had the inauspicious achievement of the first ever death of a railway passenger on the same day. 
Eight locomotives had been built for the event, the Northumbrian drawing the most elegant coach with the Duke of Wellington and various other dignitaries on board. The Right Honourable William Huskisson, Secretary of State for the Colonies, walked up to the carriage to shake hands with the Duke. Whilst they were together, the Rocket passed by rather rapidly on the other line, which threw Mr Huskisson into a panic. He was running to and fro to escape the danger but was knocked down by the Rocket, which then ran over his leg.
Sadly, William Huskisson died later that same day.
Eight locomotives had been built for the event, the Northumbrian drawing the most elegant coach with the Duke of Wellington and various other dignitaries on board. The Right Honourable William Huskisson, Secretary of State for the Colonies, walked up to the carriage to shake hands with the Duke. Whilst they were together, the Rocket passed by rather rapidly on the other line, which threw Mr Huskisson into a panic. He was running to and fro to escape the danger but was knocked down by the Rocket, which then ran over his leg.
Sadly, William Huskisson died later that same day.
