Every now and then, unbearable tragedy builds a foundation for great triumph.
So it was from one such dreadful episode recounted here some months ago that ultimately a stage was set for a bright future to be fashioned by one of those most deeply impacted by the tragedy.
The story starts with the derailment of the Norfolk & Western southbound Extra 2012 freight train. Pulling 75 cars, only five of which were loaded, the train left the tracks the middle of a hot for the season afternoon May 20, 1934, just south of Nace in Botetourt County.
What prompted the accident âwas not definitely ascertained,â according to the railroadâs July 5 that year incident report to the Interstate Commerce Commission.