Astoria, OR Steamer Oregon Fire, Feb 1898

STEAMSHIP OREGON TAKES FIRE AT SEA

Puts Back to Astoria Where the Fire Is Got Under Control---Passengers Very Much Frightened.

Astoria, Or., Feb. 14.---The steamship Oregon, which left for Dyea and Skaguay today was towed back this evening with her coal bunkers on fire. The fire is said to be under control.

The Oregon sailed from her dock in this city at 12:30 today, carrying some 600 passengers and as much freight as it was possible to place aboard. The steamer proceeded to the mouth of the river without accident. When just about to cross out, smoke was discovered coming from the bunkers, where 600 tons of coal was stored. The alarm was immediately given but it was some time before the location of the blaze was ascertained.

Meanwhile the passengers had learned of the fire and for a time there was consternation. The steamer was 20 miles from a suitable berth and as the terrible possibilities of the situation dawned upon the fortune seekers, the excitement was intense. The officers of the Oregon alone were cool and went among the frightened passengers assuring them that the fire would be extinguished without damage to their property. The excitement then subsided and the crew was better enabled to work at the bunkers. The fire was at the bottom of the coal and it was necessary to put back to port. The steamer arrived at her dock at 5 p.m. and the work of unloading coal commenced.

Idaho Daily Statesman, Boise, ID 15 Feb 1898
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Transcribed by Linda Horton. Thank you, Linda!