Baltimore Fire
The Baltimore Fire, which erupted on February 7, 1904, was a catastrophic event that engulfed approximately 150 acres of downtown Baltimore over a span of about 30 hours. This devastating fire obliterated much of the city’s business hub, resulting in an estimated loss of $70-150 million, a staggering amount for that era. By the time the flames were extinguished, around 80 business blocks and approximately 2,600 structures had been reduced to ashes. The aftermath of the fire prompted a significant reconstruction effort, spearheaded by the Burnt District Commission, which took place over the following three years. Notably, this period marked the emergence of skyscrapers in Baltimore and brought about various urban improvements, including the installation of modern sewage systems and the upgrading of the city’s water purification methods. The Baltimore Fire not only changed the physical landscape of the city but also signified the beginnings of modern Baltimore, transforming it into a more advanced urban environment. This event remains a pivotal moment in the city’s history, illustrating the resilience of urban centers in the face of disaster.
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Baltimore Fire
The Baltimore Fire
A massive fire swept some 150 acres of downtown Baltimore on February 7, 1904. It destroyed most of the city's business center, with a loss of roughly $70-150 million, an enormous sum for that time. The Baltimore Fire, which raged for about 30 hours, was the biggest fire since the Chicago Fire of 1871.
When the fire was over, 80 business blocks and some 2,600 buildings had been demolished. During the next three years, however, reconstruction proceeded swiftly. Much of the work was supervised by the Burnt District Commission. Before the activity was over, Baltimore's business district was almost entirely rebuilt, and what had not been rebuilt had been renovated.
Skyscrapers made their first appearance in Baltimore during this period. Other improvements coincided with the new construction. Cesspools gave way to sewers, for example, and cobblestones gave way to smooth pavements. In addition a modern system for purifying the city's water supply was installed. The beginnings of modern Baltimore date from the conflagration of 1904.