In 1874 Colonel Alonzo Haskins accepts the challenge to build the first underwater railway tunnel under the Hudson River.

His method is unique. Undaunted by politics, sabotage, and medical problems the work progresses. A leak develops and tunnel air pressure drops. Men race for their lives as floodwaters build up and tunnel sections collapse. Twenty years later a new company is formed and the project is completed and rail service is inaugurated.

Suddenly a blue flash then darkness. The 7:00 AM loaded with passengers heading for New York comes to a halt. River water enters the tunnel and maintenance workers, police, and fire emergency crews race to save the passengers on board. This is a fictionalized story based on an actual fact.