September 16 - Lunchtime Terror: The 1920 Explosion That Rocked Wall Street
Spiritual Readiness for Life's Unexpected Moments
This is the day the "Wall Street bombing" occurred in 1920, when a horse-drawn wagon exploded on Wall Street, New York, killing 38 and injuring 143.
In today's lesson, we will explore the sudden nature of life-altering events through the lens of the 1920 Wall Street bombing. How do we prepare our hearts and minds for the unexpected? What does it mean to live each day as if it could be our last, not out of fear, but out of faith?
"For you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night." - 1 Thessalonians 5:2 (NIV)
This Date in History
The crisp autumn air on Wall Street carried an air of normalcy on September 16, 1920. At 12:01 PM, that normalcy shattered as a thunderous explosion rocked the financial district, instantly transforming the bustling street into a scene of chaos and carnage. A horse-drawn wagon, packed with 100 pounds of dynamite and 500 pounds of cast-iron sash weights, had detonated in front of 23 Wall Street, the imposing headquarters of J.P. Morgan & Co.
J.P. Morgan & Co., founded by the influential financier John Pierpont Morgan, was more than just a bank—it was a symbol of American capitalism and financial power. The firm had played a crucial role in stabilizing the U.S. economy during several financial crises and had helped finance America's efforts in World War I. This made it a prime target for those who viewed capitalism as the root of society's ills.
The blast killed 30 people instantly, with the death toll eventually rising to 38. Among the victims was William Joyce, a 24-year-old broker's clerk. Just moments before the explosion, Joyce had stepped out of the office to mail a letter. His fiancée, waiting for him at lunch, would never see him again. Another victim, Birdsall Jackson, had been delivering bonds to the Bank of Montreal. At 58, the grandfather of three was just a few years from retirement.
The bombing wasn't an isolated incident. It came on the heels of a series of anarchist bombings across the United States. In 1919, followers of Luigi Galleani, an Italian anarchist, had conducted a coordinated bomb campaign, targeting politicians and businessmen. These attacks had heightened tensions and fueled the ongoing Red Scare, a period of intense anti-communist and anti-anarchist sentiment.
As the dust settled on Wall Street, the investigation began in earnest. William J. Flynn, director of the Bureau of Investigation (predecessor to the FBI), personally led the effort. Agents combed through the wreckage, interrogated witnesses, and chased down leads across the country. They even reconstructed the wagon to trace its origins, a painstaking process that yielded few results.
Despite the scale of the investigation, concrete evidence remained elusive. A warning letter signed "American Anarchist Fighters" was found in a mailbox near the scene, but its authenticity was questioned. The case remained open for decades, becoming one of the FBI's first major terrorism investigations and setting precedents for future cases.
The attack left lasting scars, both physical and psychological. The facade of 23 Wall Street still bears pockmarks from the shrapnel, a daily reminder of the violence that once erupted there. In the aftermath, security measures in the financial district were drastically increased. Banks and businesses installed heavy gates and armed guards, transforming the once-open street into a more fortified zone.
The Wall Street bombing also had broader societal impacts. It fueled already growing nativist sentiments, contributing to stricter immigration policies in the following years. The attack became a rallying point for those who viewed foreign-born radicals as a threat to American values and way of life.
Yet, in true New York fashion, the city's resilience shone through. By the next morning, Wall Street was back in business, debris cleared away and traders returning to work. This defiant response became a point of pride, a demonstration that acts of terror could not halt the engines of American finance.
The Wall Street bombing of 1920 stands as a pivotal moment in American history, marking the emergence of modern domestic terrorism. It remained the deadliest terrorist attack on U.S. soil until the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995. It highlighted the vulnerabilities of even the most powerful institutions and set the stage for ongoing debates about security, liberty, and the price of an open society. A century later, its echoes still resonate, a stark reminder of the enduring struggle against ideological extremism.
Historical Context
In the early 1920s, America was experiencing a period of significant social and economic change. The country had emerged from World War I as a global superpower, but this newfound status brought with it a host of domestic challenges.
The aftermath of the war saw a surge in labor unrest and political radicalism. Workers, emboldened by wartime gains, were demanding better conditions and higher wages. This led to a wave of strikes across various industries, creating tension between labor and management. Simultaneously, the Russian Revolution of 1917 had sparked fears of communist influence in America, leading to the First Red Scare.
Economically, the United States was in a state of transition. The war had stimulated industrial production, but the return to peacetime economy was proving challenging. Inflation was high, and many returning soldiers struggled to find employment. Wall Street, as the heart of American finance, was seen by some as a symbol of capitalist excess and inequality.
Immigration was another contentious issue of the time. The early 20th century had seen a massive influx of immigrants, particularly from Southern and Eastern Europe. This demographic shift led to growing nativist sentiments, with many calling for stricter immigration controls. The fear of "foreign" ideologies like anarchism and communism further fueled these anti-immigrant attitudes.
Politically, the country was moving towards a more conservative stance. The progressive era was waning, and the Republican Party, which would dominate much of the 1920s, was gaining strength. This rightward shift was partly a reaction to the perceived threats of radicalism and foreign influence.
Technological advancements were rapidly changing American society. The automobile was becoming more common, transforming urban landscapes and social habits. Radio was emerging as a new form of mass communication, connecting the country in unprecedented ways. These innovations were creating new industries and reshaping existing ones, contributing to the economic volatility of the period.
In this context, Wall Street represented both the promise and the perils of American capitalism. It was a symbol of the nation's economic might, but also a target for those who saw the financial system as fundamentally unjust. The bombing, therefore, was not just an attack on a single street or institution, but a violent manifestation of the broader social and ideological conflicts that were shaping America in the early 20th century.
Did You Know?
The horse that pulled the bomb-laden wagon was killed instantly, and its iron shoes were later found embedded in the walls of nearby buildings.
Today’s Reflection
The bustling streets of New York's financial district on September 16, 1920, bore no hint of the catastrophe about to unfold. Traders hurried to their offices, clerks rushed to deliver messages, and the steady hum of commerce filled the air. Then, at 12:01 p.m., everything changed. The deafening roar of an explosion shattered the routine, transforming an ordinary day into one that would be etched in history.
This moment in time serves as a powerful metaphor for the unexpected trials that burst into our lives. We often navigate our days with a sense of predictability, believing we have a firm grasp on what lies ahead. Our routines become comfortable, almost sacred. We wake up, go to work, interact with family and friends, all with an underlying assumption that tomorrow will be much like today. But life, in its unpredictable nature, doesn't always conform to our expectations. Sometimes, like the unsuspecting people on Wall Street that fateful day, we find ourselves thrust into chaos without warning.
More profoundly, this event serves as a stark reminder of life's fragility and the suddenness with which it can end. For the 38 people who lost their lives that day, there was no warning, no time to prepare. One moment they were going about their daily business, and the next, they were face to face with eternity.
The Apostle Paul's words to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 5:2) take on a profound new meaning in light of such events: "For you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night." While Paul was specifically referring to Christ's return, this principle applies both to the end times and to our individual mortality. Death, like that unexpected explosion, can come swiftly and without warning.
This sobering reality calls us to a state of constant spiritual readiness. It's not about living in fear, but rather in a state of preparedness and peace, knowing that our relationship with God is secure. Are we living each day as if it could be our last? Have we made peace with God and with others? Are we investing in eternal treasures rather than being consumed by temporary concerns?
Yet, this preparedness goes beyond mere spiritual self-preservation. It should manifest in how we treat others and how we live out our faith daily. Just as first responders rushed to aid the victims on Wall Street, we are called to be beacons of hope and help to others, recognizing that each interaction could be our last opportunity to show Christ's love.
The Wall Street bombing also reminds us that no place, no matter how seemingly secure, is immune to upheaval. In the same way, no life, no matter how well-ordered, is exempt from the reality of mortality. But far from being a cause for fear, this reality should spur us toward a deeper, more authentic faith. A faith that doesn't just brace for impact but stands ready to meet our Maker at any moment.
Moreover, this readiness extends to how we face other unexpected trials in life. A phone call bearing bad news, a sudden health crisis, the loss of a job – these are the explosions that rock the foundations of our carefully constructed worlds. Our ability to weather these spiritual and emotional explosions is built in the quiet moments of faith, in the daily disciplines of prayer, study, and communion with God.
Consider the aftermath of the Wall Street bombing. Despite the devastation, the next day saw the streets cleaned and the stock exchange reopened. This resilience wasn't born in the moment of crisis; it was the result of an underlying strength, a preparedness to face adversity. Similarly, our readiness to face both earthly trials and the ultimate transition of death is cultivated in our daily walk with Christ.
In essence, the unexpected nature of the Wall Street bombing calls us to live with an eternal perspective. It challenges us to cultivate a faith that is ever-ready, not just for earthly challenges, but for the moment when we will stand before God. It's a call to spiritual preparedness, to developing a relationship with God that can withstand the shockwaves of life's unforeseen challenges and ultimately prepare us for our heavenly home.
This deeper understanding transforms how we approach each day. It instills a sense of urgency in our spiritual lives, not out of fear, but out of a desire to live fully and faithfully. It reminds us to prioritize what truly matters – our relationship with God and our love for others – knowing that these are the things that will endure beyond any earthly explosions or transitions.
Practical Application
Take time this week to conduct a "spiritual preparedness check." Identify areas in your life where you feel most vulnerable to unexpected challenges. For each area, choose a relevant Bible verse to memorize and meditate on daily. Create an "emergency spiritual kit" by writing down these verses, along with brief prayers, in a small notebook or on your phone. Make it easily accessible for those moments when life's explosions catch you off guard. Additionally, reach out to someone in your community who has recently experienced an unexpected trial. Offer support through prayer, a listening ear, or practical assistance, putting your faith into action during their time of need.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, we acknowledge that You are sovereign over all aspects of our lives, including the unexpected moments that shake us to our core. Help us to cultivate a faith that is ever-ready, deeply rooted in Your unchanging truth. Grant us the wisdom to prepare our hearts and minds for life's unseen challenges, and the strength to stand firm when they come. May we not only endure these moments but also be Your hands and feet to others in their times of crisis. Guide us to be beacons of Your hope and love in a world full of uncertainty. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Supplementary Study
"Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring."
This verse reminds us of the unpredictable nature of life, echoing our lesson's theme about being prepared for unexpected events.
"Now listen, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.' Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.'"
These verses further emphasize the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty in our plans and being prepared for life's uncertainties.
"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."
This passage, while specifically about Christ's return, underscores the lesson's theme of spiritual readiness in the face of the unexpected.
Final Thoughts
The Wall Street bombing of 1920 serves as a powerful reminder that life can change in an instant. While we can't predict or prevent every crisis, we can cultivate a spirit of readiness rooted in faith. This preparedness isn't about fear, but about living each day with purpose, love, and an eternal perspective. As we navigate life's uncertainties, let's strive to deepen our relationship with God, serve others with compassion, and live in a state of spiritual alertness. In doing so, we'll be ready not only for life's unexpected challenges but also for the ultimate moment when we meet our Creator.
Community Engagement
Share your thoughts or use these questions to get the conversation started.
How do you think the people of New York responded in the immediate aftermath of the Wall Street bombing?
In what ways can unexpected tragedies strengthen our faith and bring us closer to God?
How can we maintain a balance between living fully in the present and being spiritually prepared for the unexpected?
What practical steps can we take to cultivate a state of spiritual readiness in our daily lives?
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In tomorrow's lesson, we'll journey through the shadows of doubt to discover a deeper, more authentic faith. Prepare to explore how our darkest struggles can become pathways to profound spiritual growth and a closer walk with God.
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Bonus - Did You Know?
The bombing occurred on "Payday Thursday," when many clerks and messengers were on the street carrying money and securities, potentially increasing the casualty count.
J.P. Morgan Jr., son of the famous banker and then head of the company, was in Europe at the time of the bombing, having sailed on September 7, 1920.
In the immediate aftermath of the explosion, trading on the New York Stock Exchange was suspended for the first time in its history due to an emergency, but remarkably, it reopened the next day.
One of the most severely injured survivors was Barron Collier, a streetcar advertising magnate, who despite his injuries, helped organize relief efforts in the bombing's aftermath.
The attack led to the first coordinated multi-state investigation by the Bureau of Investigation, predecessor to the FBI, setting new standards for federal law enforcement.
Additional Resources
The Day Wall Street Exploded: A Story of America in its First Age of Terror - Beverly Gage
The Wall Street Bombing of 1920: The History and Legacy of the Notorious Anarchist Attack on New York City - Charles River Editors
The Infernal Machine: A True Story of Dynamite, Terror, and the Rise of the Modern Detective - Steven Johnson
American Anarchy: The Epic Struggle between Immigrant Radicals and the US Government at the Dawn of the Twentieth Century - Michael Willrich
There has never been a timelier or more sobering article posted on Substack.com than this one. Most are ignorant that an anarchist blew up Wall Street. Many have no consciousness of the Great Depression and almost no one remembers the 3rd Reich and how it nearly won (or maybe won) the 2nd world war.
Today, we are faced with unbelievable challenges. Marxist and fools control the Federal government. The second attempt to murder President Trump cannot be laid at the feet of Kimberly Cheatle; yet it is significant that the government-controlled media first reported that a Kalashnikov with a sight that could have made a 500-yard murder a cinch. Within 30 minutes, that actual Assault Rifle had been downgraded to the media's #2 enemy (after Trump): an AR-15.
We all know the government and its paid stooges in all the networks and media will lie and change this story over the next few weeks. What we must be prepared for is a successful murder of Donald Trump - carried out by allies of Iran, China, and/or North Korea.
We now live in a 3rd World country where assassinations and riots are commonplace events. The 4th Turning has occurred, and everyone seems to be asleep.
Life's expected moments these days include the media's incessant lies about what actually happens.