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Today in History: Devastating Manhattan fire claims 30 lives, destroys buildings

7/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On July 19, 1845, a devastating fire erupted in Lower Manhattan, igniting in a whale oil and candle factory. The flames rapidly spread to wooden structures and reached a warehouse containing saltpeter, triggering a massive explosion. The disaster destroyed 345 buildings, claimed 30 lives, and inflicted over $5 million in damages.

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Story summary

On July 19, 1845, a devastating fire erupted in Lower Manhattan, igniting in a whale oil and candle factory. The flames rapidly spread to wooden structures and reached a warehouse containing saltpeter, triggering a massive explosion. The disaster destroyed 345 buildings, claimed 30 lives, and inflicted over $5 million in damages.