Learn About The Great Chicago Fire – BMW of Elmhurst Dealer

Learn more about one of the most famous fires in American history with The Great Chicago Fire, a lecture presented by the Elmhurst Public Library on Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2021, at 7 p.m. This program will explain the events that occurred before, during, and after the disaster and examine its impact on Chicago’s history. At BMW of Elmhurst, we think this event will be a great way to mark the 150th anniversary of the fire. We’re glad the library is offering this lecture both in-person and online, so everyone has a chance to attend.

The Great Chicago Fire began on Oct. 8, 1871, when a blaze broke out near DeKoven Street on the southwest side of the city. The flames quickly spread, fueled by dry weather and Chicago’s abundant supply of wooden structures. The conflagration jumped over the south branch of the Chicago River and consumed most of central Chicago. It then jumped over the main branch of the river and tore through the Near North Side. By the time firefighters brought the inferno under control on Oct. 10, at least 300 people had died, and 100,000 others had lost their homes. In total, the fire destroyed more than 17,000 buildings and caused over $200 million in property damage.

During the Great Chicago Fire lecture, historian Jim Gibbons will discuss the timeline of the catastrophe. He will also explore what may have sparked the fire, its impact on Chicago, and the ways it affected the city’s fire prevention measures and building codes going forward.

Date and Time:
Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2021, at 7 p.m.

Location:
Elmhurst Public Library
Large Meeting Room
125 S. Prospect Avenue
Elmhurst, IL 60126

Admission:
Admission to the Great Chicago Fire is free. You can attend this event in person or online via Zoom. Register at https://tinyurl.com/39x8ukdc to attend in-person or at https://tinyurl.com/53bux4jz to attend via Zoom.

For More Information:
Please contact [email protected] or call 630-279-8696.