Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE GREAT PESHTIGO FIRE
Peshtigo's Fire Museum recalls the tragedy of 1871.
October 8, 1871, was a day from hell. Most of the country was shocked at the news
of the Great Chicago Fire and the incipient fame of Mrs. O'Leary's cow. But on the
very same day, diminutive Peshtigo, Wisconsin, suffered an even more devastating
fire, one unknown to most Americans.
Incessant dry weather sparked repeated minor fires for hundreds of miles around
Peshtigo. Merging due to stiff winds, a virtual tornado descended on
Peshtigo—vulnerable,
wooden
Peshtigo—and engulfed it seemingly within minutes.
Many of Peshtigo's 2,000 residents died asleep. The fire eventually raged up the
