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Today in History: Iroquois Theatre fire claims over 600 lives

12/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 30, 1903, the Iroquois Theatre fire erupted in Chicago during a performance attended by 1,700 people. The disaster resulted in 602 deaths and 250 injuries, making it the deadliest theater fire in U.S. history, surpassing the Brooklyn Theatre fire of 1876. This tragedy highlighted severe safety deficiencies in public venues.

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Story summary

On December 30, 1903, the Iroquois Theatre fire erupted in Chicago during a performance attended by 1,700 people. The disaster resulted in 602 deaths and 250 injuries, making it the deadliest theater fire in U.S. history, surpassing the Brooklyn Theatre fire of 1876. This tragedy highlighted severe safety deficiencies in public venues.