Richmond, VA International Harvester Plant Fire, Oct 1911

$300,000 RICHMOND FIRE.

Flames Destroy Building and Plant of Harvester Company.

RICHMOND, Va., Oct. 7.--Fire today destroyed a four-story building occupied by the Richmond branch of the International Harvester Company, causing damage estimated between $250,000 and $300,000. The origin is unknown.

The fire was one of the most disastrous in the city's history. For hours it threatened to extend to the wholesale and commission districts. It spread rapidly through the brick structure containing the company's plant, following a deafening explosion. The entire Fire Department was called out except a few suburban companies.

Despite the fierceness of the flames, driven by a stormy south wind, the fire was mainly confined to the Harvester Building. Sparks were carried up the slope of Tenth Street, past the American National Bank, and into a corner of the Federal Building under construction at Tenth and Main Streets, but the damage there was slight.

Smoke and water caused several thousand dollars' damage to the stock of the Richmond Dry Goods Company in a building adjoining the Harvester plant. The fireproof American National Bank was badly scorched. Blazing binder twine was hurled in every direction. About noon the fire was subdued.

The New York Times, New York, NY 8 Oct 1911
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Transcribed by Linda Horton. Thank you, Linda!