Harbor History Museum is eager to share newly discovered footage documenting the collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge on November 7, 1940. Taken by Arthur T. Leach -- a toll both operator at the time -- "The Lost Footage" is the only known video of the collapse as seen from the West side, or Gig Harbor side, of the Tacoma Narrows. "As a historian, I am naturally skeptical until I am able to confirm details. I am excited to say that documentation verifies that Mr. Leach was noted as a toll collector at the time and that this footage is a rare find," says Harbor History Museum Director Stephanie Lile. "One of the things that makes this footage so special is that this was the personal view of somebody who worked on the bridge everyday. The clip we always see is shot from the Tacoma side, so this is a whole different view." ? Due to inclement weather, "The Lost Footage" will now debut on February 26th, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. as part of the Museum's Humanities in the Harbor series, this time hosted by our Director. Those in attendance will be the first to glimpse the unseen 7:30 minute video of Galloping Gertie's collapse and learn more about Arthur Leach, the research to verify the footage, and what happened that fateful November day. ??Admission to Humanities in the Harbor is $5, but FREE for Harbor History Museum members. Tickets may be purchased online at harborhistorymuseum.org/buy-tickets or at the front desk of the Museum. Members are encouraged to RSVP as seating is limited. RSVPS can be made by emailing Zachary Sokolik, Marketing & Development, at marketing@harborhistorymuseum.org or by phone at 253.858.6722 ext. 5.
