Fire Buffs promote the general welfare of the fire and rescue service and protect its heritage and history. Famous Fire Buffs through the years include New York Fire Surgeon Harry Archer, Boston Pops Conductor Arthur Fiedler, New York Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia and - legend has it - President George Washington.

Monday, December 13, 2021

SMOOT LUMBER - 1909


On May 13, 1909, the United Press wire service reported: "
A big fire is raging in Alexandria, Va., just across the river from Washington. It started in the lumber yards of Smoot & Co., and spread to H. K. Fields lumber yard. At noon the fire is still burning over three blocks and at that time loss was estimated at half a million dollars. The Washington fire department was appealed to for assistance and sent engines to the scene." Smoot was located on Cameron Street, stretching from Lee to Union streets. The fire broke out at 10:30 a.m.