Today marks 60th anniversary of Whiting explosion

Today marks 60th anniversary of Whiting explosion
Today marks 60th anniversary of Whiting explosion

Today marks 60th anniversary of Whiting explosion

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Today marks the 60th anniversary of the Standard Oil Refinery explosion in Whiting, Ind. Shortly after 6 a.m. on August 27, 1955, a massive explosion at Standard Oil shook the entire northwest Indiana city. Some thought it was an earthquake…others a bomb and there were a few who thought it was the end of the world. The fire that resulted from the explosion burned for days. Hundreds of families were forced to leave their homes and an entire neighborhood was destroyed. For Whiting resident Bonnie Wilson Faulkner, the explosion is just as ingrained in her memory as the day JFK was assassinated. Her recollection is one of many included in the documentary called “One Minute After Sunrise,” which takes a look back at the event and the affect it had on the people who lived in Whiting at the time of the explosion. Joining us to talk about the blast, its impact on the town and the memories of Whiting residents is producer John Hmurovic. The Whiting-Robertsdale Historical Society will be showing “One Minute After Sunrise” at 7 tonight at the Whiting High School auditorium. Admission is free.