Great Chicago Fire

Firsthand Account: Sarah Johnson's Diary Entry

October 8, 1871: I woke up to the smell of smoke and the sound of people shouting. Looking out my window, I saw flames engulfing Mrs. O'Leary's barn across the street. The fire spread quickly, and soon our entire neighborhood was ablaze. We grabbed what we could and ran towards the lake, dodging falling debris and choking on thick smoke. The heat was unbearable, and I've never been so scared in my life.

Secondhand Account: Chicago Tribune Article, October 10, 1871

The Great Chicago Fire began on the evening of October 8, 1871, in a barn on DeKoven Street. Strong winds helped the fire spread rapidly through the city's mostly wooden buildings. Over 17,000 structures were destroyed, leaving 100,000 residents homeless. The fire raged for two days before rain helped extinguish the flames. While the cause remains uncertain, the incident has become a significant part of Chicago's history.