Chicago, IL Standard Sash Company Fire, May 1908

AN INCENDIARY BLAZE DESTROYS PLANT IN CHICAGO.

ONE PERSON FATALLY BURNED -- PANIC IN VICINITY OF CONFLAGRATION.

Chicago, May 27. -- One man was probably fatally injured, two others were seriously hurt and many families were driven to the street by a fire which early today destroyed the $100,000 plant of the Standard Sash and Door company at 5819 Center avenue. Two men who gave their names as VICTOR ALTMAN and JOSEPH KROWN were arrested near the scene on suspicion of having set fire to the building.

The fire started with a terrific explosion in the basement and the flames spread so rapidly that a general alarm was sent in. Immense piles of lumber which surrounded the burning building were soon enveloped in flames, which threatened to spread to a number of adjoining cottages. Several explosions of less force than the one which started the fire occurred at frequent intervals and rendered the work of the firemen extremely hazardous. It is believed these explosions were caused by large quantities of paint stored in the building.
CHARLES TIETZ, a pipe man, was struck by falling bricks and suffered injuries which necessitated his removal to a hospital.

The Fort Wayne Sentinel Indiana 1908-05-27
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Researched and Transcribed by Stu Beitler. Thank you, Stu!