Charles Agnastoklio (Agnos)

STATUS: 
Survivor
AGE: 
23
MARITAL STATUS: 
Single
ETHNICITY: 
GENDER: 
M
CEMETERY: 

..."I didn't even get wet -- at first" ...

Charles Agnastoklio (Agnos) recalled the gaiety and anticipation of a cruise to Michigan City and a picnic. Panic and mass death took hold just minutes later as the Eastland tipped over while still tied to the wharf in Chicago. His recollection:

"I was one of the first to board. The boat was top-heavy. The people who were down below didn't have a chance to get out. Everybody was screaming, pushing and running over everything. I was on deck and able to climb to the top of the boat when it tipped over. The top remained above water. I didn't even get wet - at first."

"Suddenly, I was hit by scrambling people and dumped into the river. I drank that Chicago river water and - ooohhh - it was bad. Those of us who drank the water were treated for possible diseases with shots. I found my way out of the ship by vents, passageways, and I don't know what all."

When asked why he felt that the Eastland was overloaded, Charles replied, "The excursion company was too hungry for business."

ARCHIVED DOCUMENTS:
Help tell the story...
If you have more information about this person or the Eastland Disaster, we'd love to hear from you. We're constantly adding new information to our collection to help tell the whole story of the Eastland Disaster and the thousands of lives affected by the tragedy of July 24, 1915.
CONTACT EDHS