The small town of Gander in Newfoundland, Canada, may seem remote, but on September 11, 2001, it became a crucial refuge. With a modest population of around 12,000, Gander hosted 38 planes that landed unexpectedly when U.S. airspace was closed following the 9/11 attacks. Claude Elliott, who was Gander’s mayor at the time, mentioned how the town lacked a plan for such a massive and sudden arrival of people.
Once the decision was made that none of these planes could take off soon, Gander had to act quickly. Elliott declared a state of emergency. The town mobilized to find shelter and food for the approximately 7,000 stranded passengers. Everyday spaces like schools, churches, and the local hockey rink transformed into temporary shelters and storage facilities for supplies. Volunteer Beulah Cooper, among others, helped by providing food, transportation, and even opening her home to those in need.
This incredible hospitality inspired the musical “Come From Away,” which premiered on Broadway in 2017. The story focuses on these acts of kindness during the crisis, a narrative focusing on the day after 9/11. The show has become internationally acclaimed, with a Tony Award to its name, and former Mayor Elliott himself has become a fan, having seen the musical multiple times across different countries.
Most recently, “Come From Away” has seen production in Gander itself, performed by local actors, adding an authentic touch to the performances. Peter Halley, part of the local production as Mayor Claude, noted the authenticity of local actors portraying Newfoundlanders. Besides, the town continues to attract visitors, now affectionately called “CFA,” a term referenced in the musical that describes anyone coming from outside Newfoundland.
The influx of visitors, inspired by the musical’s portrayal of Gander’s generosity, has also led to new traditions. The town now hosts regular “screech-ins,” a ceremony where visitors take a shot of rum and kiss a cod, to become honorary Newfoundlanders, often with Beulah Cooper present.
The story of Gander stands as a testament to human kindness in times of crisis. “Come From Away” celebrates this spirit by shedding light on how ordinary people made an extraordinary difference when it mattered most. The compassion shown by Gander’s residents serves as a beacon of how we can treat each other during both good and challenging times.
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