Carl Trepagnier, a survivor of the 1947 Texas City Disaster, is set to release a fictional novel titled “Rise Up: A Novel About the 1947 Texas City Explosion” in honor of the upcoming anniversary of the tragedy. The explosion, caused by a cargo ship loaded with ammonium nitrate, devastated the town and had a lasting impact on its residents.
Trepagnier’s novel focuses on the emotional toll of the disaster on ordinary people, rather than just the physical and economic costs. He hopes to convey the fear, courage, sadness, and joy experienced by survivors through imaginary characters. The theme of rising up from adversity is inspired by one of his favorite books, “The Red Badge of Courage” by Stephen Crane.
As the number of survivors dwindles each year, Trepagnier felt it was important to share their stories before they are lost to time. He hopes readers will find comfort in the reminder of the heroism found in each individual during times of crisis.
“Rise Up” will be available at the annual photo for survivors on April 9 at the Texas City Museum, with hard copies available at the Helen Hall Library in League City on April 14 and online at Amazon. Trepagnier acknowledges that writing the book was a labor of love, but he hopes it will resonate with readers and offer a compelling insight into one of the darkest moments in Texas City’s history.
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