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Jim Gibbons discusses the Iroquois Theatre Fire of 1903, in which over 600 people died in the deadliest single-building fire in Chicago and United States’ history. (In person/online)
It’s December 30, 1903 and you’re excited! Today you are enjoying your day trip out of town. You are seated in the gorgeous Iroquois Theatre in Chicago.
With its spacious three-level seating, high balcony, and hidden all-level staircase, the picturesque theatre is a site to see! The bottom orchestra level alone can seat up to 700 in the audience. You’ve heard how luxurious the backstage is as well! With its five levels, elevators are used to transport the actors and actresses from one level to the next.
Not only are you comfortable in your seating, but you feel completely safe knowing that the theatre building, located near the Chicago Loop Shopping District, is completely fireproof and police-patrolled as advertised in the playbill.
You feel so lucky to be able to have purchased a ticket! With over 2,200 people attending, all floors of the theatre including the standing room areas, are full of men, women and many children of all ages. Then, the Drury Lane musical, Mr. Blue Beard begins! Oh how you are enjoying the program! And what a gorgeous light show!
Then around 3:15p.m. disaster hits. You see fire! Flames are everywhere! People on all levels are running towards the exists, trampling each other, jumping out windows, trying to open tightly-sealed doors. Everyone is acting like trapped animals gasping and running for their lives in chaos! You are terrified! How will you escape?!
Historian Jim Gibbons will discuss the tragedy of the Iroquois Theatre Fire. Gibbons will explain how through mass panic, ignoring fire safety codes, and blocked exists, over 600 people will die. Gibbons will discuss the structure of the theatre building and events that took place before, during and after the deadliest theatre fire and single building fire in Chicago and United States’ history.
Registration is required.
You may attend this program in person at the library, or may attend virtually/online.
To register, select either "Register to Attend Online" or "Register to Attend In Person." Online attendees MUST provide a valid e-mail address.
The Library is closed in observance of the holiday.
