The disaster took place at the launching of the sea-going riverboat the John and William from Chambers' boatyard on the Masbrough side of the River Don.
It was customary at this yard to invite people to stand on the boat during the launch to enjoy the rush into the water.
Although members of the gathering managed to rescue some, sixty-four people died in the disaster, either instantly, or not long after being retrieved from the river.
[2] After the disaster £200 was raised to assist with relieving the poorer bereaved families, and to build a memorial to the dead.
[1] The Masbrough memorial along with the mausoleum is now in a state of disrepair and is subject to a local appeal for renovation.