Gander’s Role in 9/11 and the Musical ‘Come From Away’

Gander, a small Canadian town on Newfoundland island, houses about 12,000 people. On September 11, 2001, its location made it a crucial landing spot for grounded flights. Former Mayor Claude Elliott explains, “Once you leave Europe in the morning, once you get halfway across, the nearest airport is Gander.” By day’s end, 38 planes had landed, unexpectedly hosting around 7,000 visitors.

Elliott notes the absence of a specific plan for such an event, saying, “We have an emergency plan, every municipality has it. But there’s nothing in that plan to tell you what to do with 7,000 people if they decide to drop in for four or five days.” As U.S. airspace shut down, Gander found itself a temporary home to many.

With planes grounded, Elliott declared a state of emergency. Gander mobilized quickly. Supplies were gathered, and churches and schools became makeshift shelters. Even the local hockey rink served a purpose. Food was kept cool in the community center on the ice surface.

The warmth of the townspeople shone through. Residents provided shelter in schools, churches, and homes. Beulah Cooper, a dedicated volunteer, reflects, “Thank God they’re coming here, ’cause I know they will be looked after.” She helped feed and care for many, even inviting some into her home.

Cooper emphasizes the personal fulfillment in helping others, “It does so good in here to know that you’re doing something to help somebody.” Her kindness partly inspired the hit musical “Come From Away,” which portrays Gander’s hospitality during that critical time. Elliott, initially skeptical about its potential, shared, “How are you gonna make a musical out of sandwiches, soup, blankets, boxes, pillows?” Yet, the story resonated deeply.

“Come From Away” went on to win a Tony Award and toured globally. Elliott became an enthusiast, having watched it 139 times in different countries, including a local production in Gander. Actor Peter Halley, part of the Gander production, believes its authenticity is unmatched, saying, “It’s the only cast where Newfoundland characters are played by Newfoundlanders.”

The term “Come From Away” describes visitors to Newfoundland. Given the show’s success, Gander now experiences an increase in tourists. Visitors connect with the town’s history at the aviation museum, viewing an exhibit about 9/11 and thank-you notes from former passengers. They can participate in “screech-ins,” a fun tradition involving rum and a cod fish, which Beulah Cooper often attends.

Cooper’s newfound fame leads to memorable encounters, where visitors seek hugs. Reflecting on the essence of Gander’s story, she advises, “You talk to people like you like to be spoken to, and you treat people like you like to be treated.”

“Come From Away” focuses on the generosity following the tragedy of 9/11, often referred to as a “9/12 musical.” It captures how ordinary people stepped up in a crisis.