New Plaque Added to Memorial for 1980 CPR Steel Gang Crash — June 16 Events Planned in Webb
- 17 hours ago
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A new plaque has been added to the roadside memorial west of Webb to honour the 22 men who died in the 1980 CPR Prairie Steel Gang bus crash—the deadliest highway accident in Saskatchewan history and one of the worst in Canada. The addition provides more historical detail for the many travellers who stop at the site each year.
Remembering the 1980 Crash
On May 28, 1980, a westbound car crossed into the path of a school‑type bus carrying 30 CPR track workers. The impact rolled the bus, and moments later a tanker truck hauling hot asphalt oil struck the wreckage, triggering a fire that spread rapidly across the scene.
Workers from a second bus arrived within minutes and attempted rescues despite flames, explosions, and burning oil pooling in the ditch.
The victims included:
12 men from Newfoundland and Labrador
9 from Manitoba
1 from Ontario
Many had travelled west to support their families during a period of economic hardship.
A memorial was built near the crash site soon after the tragedy, and a second memorial was later established in Rushoon, NL. The new plaque now installed at the Webb site helps preserve the story for future generations.
June 16 Events in Webb
The CPR Steel Gang Alumni have released the schedule for the June 16 gathering in Webb. The day will include a plaque dedication, community supper, documentary preview, and a discussion on the legacy of the Steel Gang.
1:30 p.m. — Webb Community Hall Opens
The hall will be open as a meeting place throughout the afternoon and will serve as a shelter if weather conditions are poor.
4:30 p.m. — Plaque Dedication Ceremony
A short ceremony will take place at the crash memorial, located 2 km west of Webb on the north side of the Trans‑Canada Highway. A few brief remarks are planned, and the ceremony is expected to run under 30 minutes.
6:00 p.m. — Community Supper
Dinner will be served at the Webb Community Hall, hosted jointly by the Steel Gang Alumni and the Webb community.
After Supper — Documentary Preview & Discussion
A five‑minute concept film for Steel Gang: The Ties that Bind will be shown, followed by an update from 47 Filmworks on the documentary’s progress. A roundtable conversation will then focus on individual connections to the Steel Gang and how those ties have shaped people’s lives.
Please note: Documentary filming will take place throughout the day.
Why This Memorial Matters
For many families, the crash remains a defining loss. The new plaque offers context for visitors and ensures the story is not forgotten. Local residents near Webb have maintained the memorial for decades, reflecting a long‑standing commitment to honouring the men who died.
Community Invitation
The CPR Steel Gang Alumni welcome anyone wishing to attend, learn more, or pay their respects. The gathering is open to the public.
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