James and Ellen Waggoner

James Waggoner was a Seventh-day Adventist evangelist in the mid-1800s, traveling widely to preach, organize meetings, and encourage scattered believers. His wife, Ellen, often shared the burdens of travel and ministry, providing steady companionship and practical support. Those who knew the Waggoners remembered not only their willingness to go where they were needed, but also their dependence on prayer when circumstances felt uncertain.

Jackson, Michigan Train Incident (May 23, 1854)

On May 23, 1854, as the Waggoners prepared to board a train in Jackson, Michigan, Ellen was seized with a sober foreboding. Friends nearby gathered quickly to pray, asking God to preserve them and to overrule whatever danger might be ahead. Once aboard, Ellen felt an unusually strong conviction to leave their car and move toward the rear of the train. The couple heeded that urging.

Soon afterward, the train derailed. The engineer and fireman were killed instantly, and many passengers were injured. Amid the violence of twisted rails and shattered cars, the Waggoners’ car was left unharmed. It had uncoupled from the wreck without the chain or bolt breaking—an outcome so unlikely that witnesses regarded it as a striking providence rather than mere chance.

Faith, Courage, and Christian Character

The incident is remembered as a call to take godly convictions seriously, without turning every impression into superstition. Scripture teaches both humble trust and sober watchfulness: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5–6). It also strengthens believers to rest in God’s care: “The LORD will guard you from all evil; He will preserve your soul” (Psalm 121:7).

In the aftermath of such disasters, Christian duty does not end with personal deliverance. Prayer, calm leadership, and compassionate help for the injured reflect the love of neighbor and the courage that flows from faith. The Waggoners’ deliverance stands as a humbling reminder: pray earnestly, listen carefully, act wisely, and trust the Lord’s watchful care.