The Story of the Great Fire in St. John, N.B., June 20th, 1877 Flashcards
George Stewart · Public domain edition · 207 cards · 57 chapters
George Stewart’s 1877 account argues that the Great Fire of St. John, New Brunswick, surpassed Chicago’s and Boston’s in severity and traces the city’s earlier fires from 1787 onward. The deck covers the fire’s speed, boundaries, failed defenses, and the losses recorded in each preceding blaze.
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Chapter 1 · Question
How long did the St. John fire take to destroy two-fifths of the city?
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Chapter 1 · Answer
The fire destroyed an immense area in the incredibly short space of nine hours, laying fully two-fifths of the entire city in ashes and levelling one thousand six hundred and twelve houses. At one time three portions of the city were burning at once, and the blaze was only stayed when the water-line prevented further spread.
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Section 14 cards
How long did the St. John fire take to destroy two-fifths of the city?
The fire destroyed an immense area in the incredibly short space of nine hours, laying fully two-fifths of the entire city in ashes and levelling one thousand six hundred and twelve houses. At one time three portions of the city were burning at once, and the blaze was only stayed when the water-line prevented further spread.
Chapter 1
What was the boundary of the burnt district described in the chapter?
The boundary followed a line on the eastern and northern sides of Union Street to Mill Street, Mill Street to Dock Street, the northern and eastern sides of Market Square, the centre of King Street to Pitt Street, Pitt Street to its junction with the water, then around by the harbour-line to the starting point. In all, 200 acres were destroyed.
Chapter 1
Why does the author argue the St. John fire was worse than Chicago's or Boston's?
The author argues the St. John fire was more calamitous in character than the Chicago and Boston conflagrations. Those fires were confined to a certain locality, but in St. John an immense area was destroyed in nine hours, with three parts of the city burning at once. In a relative sense, the author says, it was a greater calamity and its people suffered sterner hardships.
Chapter 1
What materials failed to stop the fire's advance?
Granite, freestone, brick and marble were as ineffectual in staying the conflagration as the driest tinder-box houses. Even old stone buildings that had stood for sixty years and withstood serious fires before crumbled and tumbled before the flames. Men, horses, building material, steam and water all succumbed like chaff before the whirlwind.
Chapter 1
Section 23 cards
What did subscribers fund in the April 1787 fire protection document?
Subscribers promised loans to the City of St. John corporation to import two suitable fire-engines from London and sink a sufficient number of public wells, since the city lacked engines and wells and the corporation could not advance money. The corporation engaged to repay each subscriber with annual interest when its funds allowed.
Chapter 2
What were the circumstances and losses of the 1837 St. John fire?
The fire began on Peters's Wharf on January 13, 1837, in the heart of a rigorous winter, and spread along South Market Wharf and up to the ferry boat. Both sides of Water Street and Prince William Street between Cooper's Alley and Princess Street were destroyed. One hundred and fifteen houses and about one million dollars' worth of property were lost.
Chapter 2
Why does the chapter say the 1837 fire was especially hard on residents?
The author argues the city was young, poor, and struggling, and people were frugal and less able to bear the burdens suddenly imposed. Outside relief systems did not exist, prejudice against insurance meant many lost everything, and the fire came in winter with snow and ice and no shelter for afflicted women and children.
Chapter 2
Section 34 cards
What losses did the August 1839 fire cause in St. John?
The fire started in Nelson Street and burned the entire north wharf, both sides of Dock Street, and Market Square, except the house on the site later occupied by the Bank of British North America and a house on Union Street west occupied by Mr. Hegan. It did not cross Prince William Street, and the old Government House on Union Street escaped.
Chapter 3
What happened at the March 1841 fire on the 17th?
Four lives were lost and much excitement prevailed. Mr. Holdsworth, of Holdsworth & Daniel (London House), perished while endeavouring to keep sparks off the roof of his store. Later that year, on 26th August, a L30,000 fire in Portland destroyed sixty houses.
Chapter 3
How was the November 1841 Market-house fire described?
A fire broke out on the South Wharf and burned the whole wharf plus Peter's Wharf, the south side of Water Street, and the large brick Market-house in Market Square, which housed butchers on the ground floor and civic offices above. The author states the building could have been saved and was lost through gross carelessness, with incendiarism rampant.
Chapter 3
What did the 1849 King Street fire destroy?
It broke out in a store in Lawrence's building. The Commercial Hotel, then kept by the late Israel Fellows, father of James I. Fellows, was destroyed, along with the Tower of Trinity Church, which had to be pulled down to save the Church. Pilot Mills climbed to the cupola and secured the fastenings by which it was brought down.
Chapter 3
Section 44 cards
Where did merchants and bankers take their valuables as Dock Street burned?
They rushed to the Bank of New Brunswick, where, through the courtesy of George Schofield, Esq., they deposited tin boxes holding bank notes, bills of exchange, mortgages, bonds, specie, and ledgers into the vaults. The chapter says they were not a moment too soon, since the Market Square front and Hall & Fairweather's store on South Wharf were already ablaze.
Chapter 4
What saved Manchester, Robertson & Allison's King Street building?
The chapter calls its survival one of the marvels of the calamity, saying the building held the key to that side of the street. A laundry and well-managed protective measures by the firm and friends saved it. Mr. Manchester rejected the idle men folding their arms and declaring it hopeless, insisting he would use every effort; the firemen worked with a will and succeeded.
Chapter 4
What did the Bank of British North America do the day after the fire?
It was the only monetary institution in the city that resumed business the next day as usual. The chapter describes its saving as one of those wonderful events that occur only at rare intervals: the fire roared in the rear of the bank, a large barn went down, and it seemed certain the bank would go next, but the fire crossed the square instead and moved on.
Chapter 4
What stood on the Imperial Block site before 1852?
The memorable coffee house, where old men gathered of an evening to gossip, smoke, and sip toddy. In 1815 they met there to learn of the war between France and England and read of Waterloo months after it was fought. Merchants compared notes, a verbal commercial agency arose, and poets and dramatists shared work over hot spiced rum. It was torn down in 1852 for the block later destroyed.
Chapter 4
Section 54 cards
What did the fire do to goods people carted away for safety?
People sent carloads of valuable goods to places that seemed safe but proved only temporarily secure. Men whose stores burned at four or five o'clock saw their goods burned at seven or eight o'clock, so the removal only postponed the loss by a few hours. Cartmen charged wildly and exorbitantly, with some paying as much as fifty dollars to cart away a single load.
Chapter 5
What was Pine's brick building, and when was it destroyed?
Pine's brick building was the only brick building in the block between Canterbury and Germain Streets. George Jury Pine built it years earlier; I. & F. Burpee and George Stewart began business there, and Della, Torre & Co. and druggist George Stewart, Jr. later occupied it. Owner Stephen Whittaker of Fredericton had begun a rear addition and upper-story improvements. It went to pieces about six o'clock.
Chapter 5
What was the earlier history of the United States Hotel building?
The building on King and Charlotte Streets was long known as the old Masonic Hall. The Free and Accepted Masons decided to erect it at a meeting on April 1, 1816, leased the lot from Trinity Church, and laid the cornerstone on September 28, 1816. The venture failed financially; it was sold at sheriff's sale in 1819 to Israel Lawson, who completed it and leased the upper story to the Masons.
Chapter 5
How was the Masonic Hall used before becoming a hotel?
The Masons leased the third or upper story, a room 60 feet by 30 feet with two large ante-rooms. For many years all the concerts, balls, public parties, and public meetings given in the city were held there. The house was known as the Masonic Hall until 1836, when the St. John Hotel Company bought it from Israel Lawson and converted it into the St. John Hotel, opened May 24, 1837 by Cyrus Stockwell.
Chapter 5
Section 64 cards
Who managed the St. John Hotel after Mr. Stockwell retired in 1840?
W. & J. Scammell succeeded Mr. Stockwell in 1840 and at once remodeled the building into splendid working order. The chapter notes their energy matched that of the present firm of Scammell Bros. In 1851 they left the St. John Hotel for the Waverley House nearly opposite. The hotel had hosted Governor-General Poulet Thompson, Lord Elgin, and other notables.
Chapter 6
What was the bell-tower made of, and when was it erected?
The bell-tower was erected in 1851 and was made of wood, painted and sanded, rather than solid stone. Mr. Warner discovered this in 1874 when he climbed to the triumphal arch expecting stone. The large bell, made in 1852 at Meneely's, West Troy, New York, tolled fire alarms for years; before it, men struck a gong from a scaffold.
Chapter 6
How did King Square serve refugees during the fire?
King Square was a haven for those fleeing the flames with saved belongings, a camping ground for soldiery, and a hospital bed for the sick and wounded laid on the grass. For the first days it was filled with furniture, books, and utensils. Half-famished women rocked hungry children on the sward, and women gathered flying feathers to make rests for their heads.
Chapter 6
What does the chapter say about thieves during the fire?
The chapter describes human vultures with pickers and stealers plundering the unfortunate, a female vampire helping a widow gather her bundle while her children stole silver and jewelry, and rough half-grown men snatching treasures from children. Loafers and thieves held high carnival all night, knocking down those who asked for help and making off with anything handed to them.
Chapter 6
Section 73 cards
What was saved from Old Trinity Church during the fire?
Only a few items were rescued: Captain Frank B. Hazen got out the historic Royal Arms, Colonel Chas. R. Ray rescued the minister's surplices, and a few prayer books were saved from the vestry. The communion plate, kept in a safe, was also saved. The chapter states this was all that survived the burning of the church.
Chapter 7
When was Trinity Church erected, and who preached the first sermon there?
Trinity Church was erected in 1791, after the earlier unconsecrated Germain Street building had been used since the 1780s. The first sermon in Trinity was preached on Christmas Day, 1791, by Rev. Dr. Mather Byles, the rector. The consecration services were performed by Right Reverend Dr. Charles Inglis, the first Bishop of Nova Scotia.
Chapter 7
What does the chapter say about the Loyalists who settled St. John in 1783?
The author argues the Loyalists who settled there on May 18, 1783, possessed thrift, integrity, zeal, enterprise and piety, calling these their strongest points. He credits them with courage, stability, nerve and character, describing them as just the men to found a city and plant the seeds of civilization. They first built simple houses, then a church.
Chapter 7
Section 84 cards
Who was Trinity Church's first rector and what was his fate?
The Rev. George Bisset, A.M., an Englishman, was the first rector; before the Revolutionary War he served Trinity Church at Newport, Rhode Island, and became its rector until 1779. After the war he came to St. John and was chosen rector. In 1786 he went to England and raised a large sum for his church and the building, but he died in 1788 before seeing his hopes realized.
Chapter 8
Which rector preached the first sermon in Trinity Church and how long was his tenure?
The Rev. Mather Byles, D.D., a Harvard graduate of the class of 1751, was the next rector and preached the first sermon ever preached in Trinity Church. Previously a Congregational minister at New London for fifteen years, he later became an Episcopalian and rector of Christ's Church, Boston, then went to Halifax as Garrison chaplain. He was rector of St. John for 26 years and died in March 1814 at age 80.
Chapter 8
What calamity befell Dr. Benjamin Gerrish Gray in 1833?
In 1833 Dr. Gray's house in Wellington Row took fire and burned to the ground before aid could come, together with his wife and a female domestic. He also lost his valuable library of rare and costly books and manuscripts and the complete records of his parish. The author states the grief pressed heavily on his mind and he was never again the same man.
Chapter 8
Who succeeded Dr. Benjamin Gray and what was notable about his writings?
His son, the Rev. John William D. Gray, D.D., born 1798 at Halifax and a King's College, Windsor graduate, succeeded him in 1840 and held the rectorship until his death in 1868, serving 28 years. The author praises him as kindly, thoughtful and generous, with abilities of the highest order. His notable writings were chiefly controversial pamphlets, including works on the Catholic question and the Moses and Colenso controversy.
Chapter 8
Section 94 cards
What was the origin and history of the old arms of Trinity Church?
The arms were military, not church, arms. They first adorned the Council Chamber of the Old Town House in Boston, sailed from Boston Harbour on March 17th, 1776, were carried to Halifax, and were placed in Trinity Church in 1791. Captain Hazen rescued them from the flames on Wednesday afternoon. The author notes a story that they came from Trinity Church, New York, lacks confirmation.
Chapter 9
What was Mrs. Lyons's old curiosity shop and what happened to it?
Mrs. Lyons's shop was known as a place where everything from a needle to an anchor could be got. She was an old inhabitant who attended every auction sale, bought everything, and resold it at a fair profit. Old books, pictures, prints, crockery, bedding, carpets and furniture filled it. Nothing could be saved from the fire, and she narrowly escaped with her life, being reported missing at one stage.
Chapter 9
When was the Germain Street Methodist Church opened and who was the leading layman?
The chapel was opened on Christmas day, 1808, and dedicated by the Rev. Mr. Marsden. The leading layman was the late John Ferguson, an influential citizen and prosperous merchant, through whose exertions the chapel was built. For many years it was the only place of worship this body of Christians had in the city. It was unpretentious, later enlarged and extended back, and John R. Marshall led the singing for thirty years.
Chapter 9
What was the Academy of Music and who led it?
The Academy of Music was a splendid hall owned by a joint stock company, with the late Dr. George E. Keator as first president and Dr. Allan M. Ring as his successor; John R. Armstrong was secretary from the beginning. Its stage hosted Phillips, Beecher, Carpenter, Couldock, Louis Aldrich, Carlotta Le Clercq, Warner and Lanergan, and Chas. Koppitz. It had been frescoed and improved about a year before the fire, and the Knights of Pythias lodges occupied the upper story.
Chapter 9
Section 104 cards
What was the last theatrical performance at the Academy of Music before the fire?
On Tuesday evening, 19th June, Louise Pomeroy played Juliet in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. She was to have performed Rosalind in As You Like It on Wednesday night. The company was managed by William Nannary, with P. Nannary as assistant and W. E. Kelly as business agent. All the artists suffered by the fire, and some who saved their wardrobes had them stolen afterwards.
Chapter 10
What was the history of the Grammar School building destroyed by the fire?
The Grammar School was a plain wooden house on two lots sold by Thomas Horsfield in 1807 for L100. James Brimner was the first teacher; Dr. James Patterson took charge in 1818 and remained head master nearly to the end of his life. The school was very successful, and the Corporation gave a gold medal annually for many years. In its last days it was a free school of the highest grade.
Chapter 10
What did the 1784 land grant for the Presbyterian church in St. John specify?
The grant, issued 29th June 1784 under the Great Seal of Nova Scotia to John Boggs and others for the Church of Scotland, was for a meeting house for Protestant worship approved by the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, plus a minister's dwelling, a public school house and a public poor house. Grantees had to take the oath of allegiance within twelve months or the land reverted to the Crown.
Chapter 10
Why was the 1784 church site abandoned, and where was the new site bought?
The original site on Queen Street was not approved because it was not central enough, and in 1815 a new committee sought a site in the upper part of town. Charles McPherson, the surviving trustee, relinquished his interest. James Grigor selected the Germain Street site and bought it for L250 from John L. Venner; Grigor and his wife conveyed it to the committee on 20th June 1815, exactly sixty-two years before the fire.
Chapter 10
Section 114 cards
What did the 1832 discovery reveal about earlier legislation and Presbyterian usage?
It was found that the existing legislation was at variance with Presbyterian usage, which separated spiritual from temporal affairs. Spiritual matters belonged to the minister and elders, while temporalities were managed by named trustees. The author notes this discovery led to a new bill, enacted by 2 William IV. cap. 18, which repealed all previous acts and appointed interim trustees until twelve others could be elected.
Chapter 11
How did St. Andrew's Kirk get its name and who was its first minister?
The Rev. Geo. Burns was the first regularly appointed minister, chosen in Scotland by Hugh Johnston at age 26. The University of St. Andrew conferred his divinity degree on his departure for America, and the new Kirk was named "St. Andrew" in compliment to his alma mater. He arrived in St. John on Sunday, May 25, 1817, and preached from Psalm cxxii, 1.
Chapter 11
What limits did the 1818 Act place on the Kirk's property income?
Act 58, passed in 1818, authorized the Kirk's ministers and elders to purchase, receive, hold, and enjoy lands and tenements, and to improve and use them to support the church building and its minister. However, such rents, together with pew rents, were not to exceed the sum of L500 annually. The author notes this Act remains in operation.
Chapter 11
What happened to St. Andrew's communion silver and pulpit Bible in the fire?
The solid silver communion service, given in 1818 by the Earl and Countess of Dalhousie, and the two silver bread plates from Miss Campbell were saved and are in the possession of William Girvan, Esq. The pulpit Bible, presented by Mrs. James Lawton around 1839, was burned, along with two oil paintings of Revs. Drs. Burns and Donald.
Chapter 11
Section 124 cards
Who managed the Victoria Hotel at the time of the fire?
At the time of the fire the Victoria Hotel was under the management of Mr. George W. Swett, described in the chapter as a very popular and courteous gentleman. The hotel had opened in July 1871 with Mr. B. T. Creagen as Manager, and in the Fall of 1873 the Victoria Hotel Club assumed control and appointed Mr. John Edwards manager.
Chapter 12
What did the Victoria Hotel cost to build and furnish?
The chapter states the hotel building cost one hundred and sixty-five thousand dollars and its furnishing cost seventy-five thousand dollars. It was commenced by a Joint Stock Company in 1870 and built on the corner of Germain and Duke Streets, opening for business in July 1871 under a Board of Directors headed by Otis Small as President.
Chapter 12
What did historian James Hannay lose in the fire, and what was saved?
Mr. Hannay was at Oakpoint preparing his history of Acadia when his dwelling and valuable books, including scarce high-priced volumes, were lost. Some two or three hundred printed pages were destroyed at the printing houses, but he had one copy of the printed sheets with him, so that loss was not irretrievable. Part of the unprinted manuscript burned and had to be re-written.
Chapter 12
How did the Odd Fellows' Hall fare in the fire?
The Odd Fellows' Hall occupied what used to be No. 5 Engine House, with Mr. Richard Welch in the ground flat and second story and the Odd Fellows meeting in the room overhead. The loss to the order was quite extensive, though a good deal of the regalia and paraphernalia was saved through the forethought of members who managed to get into the building in time.
Chapter 12
Section 132 cards
When was the Baptist Church organized, built, and replaced with brick?
The church was organized in 1810, ground was broken in 1818, and the large frame building opened for service on July 12th of that same year. Wm. Stenning and Thomas Harding purchased the site, and Stenning superintended the building. In 1863 the old wooden structure was torn down and a handsome brick building begun, costing forty thousand dollars.
Chapter 13
What was the history of the Bay View Hotel before it burned?
The Bay View Hotel, a valuable structure recalling old feudal castles, was erected in 1819 by Henry Wright, Collector, as a private residence. It was built by day's work, with workmen paid each Saturday in Spanish doubloons, since change was scarce and there was no paper money. Henry Wright died in 1829; it later passed to Wm. Wright and John Boyd, M.D., and finally became an hotel under Mr. Wilson.
Chapter 13
Section 144 cards
Why did the fire spread so fast in the lower part of St. John?
The chapter explains that most houses in that quarter were wooden and packed close together, so four or five houses burned in the time one would normally take. The fire spent its greatest strength there, and the wind kept fanning it whenever it showed signs of abating.
Chapter 14
What did the author claim about the fire on Leinster Street?
The author argues the fire was set by an incendiary, calling it beyond dispute. He reasons the fire was moving the opposite direction, the wind was contrary, and King Square had broken the connection, so sparks could not reasonably have reached the head of Leinster Street.
Chapter 14
What happened to St. James (Episcopalian) Church in the fire?
It burned on Main Street after catching from a flying spark. Built in summer 1850 by Trinity Church, it was Gothic cruciform with no tower, designed by M. Stead. The parish was set off from Trinity in 1852; Rev. John Armstrong was first rector, succeeded by his son Rev. Wm. Armstrong, rector nearly twenty years.
Chapter 14
What was St. Malachi's Chapel and how was it destroyed?
It was the first Roman Catholic church in the city, opened October 1st, 1815 by Rev. Charles French, whose first service in St. John was in the City Hall in 1813. It caught from sparks borne from Christian Robertson's stable and was completely destroyed. Later it served as school, lecture and bazaar hall.
Chapter 14
Section 153 cards
What was the Dramatic Lyceum, and who built it?
The Dramatic Lyceum was the chief place of amusement in St. John for many years, built by Mr. Lanergan, described as the father of theatricals in St. John. It was sold to the Irish Friendly Society a few months before the fire and was under engagement to a minstrel party on the night of the fire. It burned after the Milligan and Osgood marble establishments were destroyed.
Chapter 15
How did the fire affect the jail and its prisoners?
The fire attacked the jail and burned a portion of it, but the jail itself resisted the flames. Prisoners were secured and evacuated under Deputy Sheriff Rankine's supervision. Two or three escaped but returned the next day and gave themselves up, fearing they would starve in the desolate, destitute town. The old Temperance Hall beside the jail was not so lucky and burned.
Chapter 15
What does the chapter say about Mr. Lanergan's contribution to theatre in St. John?
The author credits Lanergan with educating and elevating public taste by producing Shakespeare, Jonson, Massenger, Bulwer, Goldsmith and Sheridan, and with bringing artists such as Charles Mathews at great pecuniary sacrifice. The author argues Lanergan overcame prejudice against the theatre, including denunciations of it as a 'devil's house,' by offering respectable, harmless amusement.
Chapter 15
Section 164 cards
How was St. John's water supplied before a proper system existed?
Residents depended on wells, with chief wells at King's Square, Blockhouse Hill, Princess Street near Charlotte, Queen Square, the foot of Poor House Hill, and in Portland near the first public hydrant in Main Street. Water was also sold in the streets from tall casks at a penny a bucketful.
Chapter 16
What happened to the 1825 water company's capital when work stalled?
An Act incorporating a water company with L10,000 capital passed in 1825, but subscribed capital was deemed insufficient. The money was lent out on interest until the next year, when each stockholder got back his payment plus three per cent. New wells were then sunk to secure a fuller supply.
Chapter 16
How was water first brought into St. John, and when?
On Colonel Baldwin's advice, water came from Lily Lake, but not by direct gravitation as eminent engineers thought it should. It was taken from the tail of Gilbert's Mill, run by sluice to a cistern near Marsh-bridge, pumped by steam engine through a ten-inch main to a reservoir on Block House Hill, reaching the city in October 1838.
Chapter 16
Why did the water company transfer its works to the City in 1855?
An April 1855 Act let the company transfer its property and works to the City Corporation and Sessions. The chief reason was the great difficulty of running the water and sewerage systems separately. The Act authorized debentures at six per cent interest, payable half-yearly and redeemable within forty years, with commissioners appointed by the Common Council and County Sessions.
Chapter 16
Section 174 cards
What did the author conclude about the water supply during the fire?
The author argues that claims of an inadequate water supply during the fire were fallacious. He states there was plenty of water throughout, though much was wasted recklessly, and that on the best authority the supply was in every way adequate to the requirements of the hour. He calls the no-water cry a popular one raised at fires that cannot be got under way.
Chapter 17
What are the heights of the Little River and Leinster Street Reservoirs?
The water in the Little River Reservoir is one hundred and sixty feet above high tide level, while the water in the Leinster Street Reservoir is one hundred and thirty-two feet above that level. The chapter gives these figures while describing the city's water system and its sources, including the Victoria spring and the lakes feeding Little River.
Chapter 17
How could the city's water supply be doubled if needed?
The Commissioners purchased land through which a strong supply of water could be brought from Loch Lomond. The chapter states Little River has abundance for the city's immediate requirements, but the supply can be doubled easily by tapping Loch Lomond. The Victoria spring, Lake Donaldson, Douglas Lake, Lake Latimer, Lake Buck and Long's Lake are also described as sources feeding the system.
Chapter 17
What happened to the Leinster Street Baptist Church in the fire?
The fire crossed the street after destroying the Water Company's fence and burned the Leinster Street Baptist Church, which was soon leveled. The chapter says it was cleanly and squarely burned, with nothing resembling an edifice visible half an hour after the fire ceased. The building was fully insured; after a $3,000 church debt is paid, about $15,000 remains for rebuilding.
Chapter 17
Section 183 cards
What was the Varley Wesleyan day-school built for, and how was it used at the time of the fire?
Mark Varley, a prominent Methodist, designed the brick building to educate the poor of his faith for free. After the school law came into force it was no longer needed under its old management, so the school trustees leased it from the Varley Trustees and it was used as an advanced school. The upper room held girls and the lower held boys.
Chapter 18
What danger did the gas house pose, and how did Robert Britain respond?
One hundred thousand feet of gas were in the holders with flames a block away, and no provision had been made to prevent an explosion that might have killed hundreds. Britain alerted President Robert Blair, who gave him full charge. Britain stayed at his post even as his own uninsured house, furniture and books burned, and averted the calamity.
Chapter 18
What happened to goods and furniture left in the street during the fire?
Although the solidly built residences at the other three corners of Princess and Wentworth were slow to burn, much furniture and household goods got into the street were afterward stolen by 'ghouls' infesting the place. One lady lost a valuable box of furs, another her jewelry, and a third an ornate work-box. Depredations went on unchecked all night, and a house was pillaged even while its walls swayed.
Chapter 18
Section 194 cards
What did residents of Upper Duke Street believe about the Victoria School and the fire?
Many householders on Upper Duke Street firmly believed the massive new Victoria School on Duke and Sydney Streets would act as a barrier to the flames and keep the fire from their houses. Some believed this so implicitly that they made no effort to remove even a picture from their rooms until the high walls bent over.
Chapter 19
What losses did Rev. Dr. David Waters and Rev. Stavely suffer in the fire?
Rev. Dr. David Waters, pastor of St. David's (Free) Presbyterian Church, lost a very large amount, the greater part of his library having been burned; he was away in Halifax and only reached the city when all was lost. Rev. A. McL. Stavely, senior Presbyterian clergyman of St. John, also lost heavily, and his library, the accumulation of many years, was destroyed.
Chapter 19
When was the Victoria School built, by whom, and at what cost?
The Victoria School-house was begun in the spring of 1875 and occupied the following May. Messrs. McKean & Fairweather made the design and supervised construction, and Messrs. Flood & Prince erected it. It cost $46,000, with heating costing $4,000. The workmanship and materials were of the most substantial character, with foundations on piles capped with Georgia pine and a granite-faced basement.
Chapter 19
What was the significance of the Victoria School's destruction to the city's morale?
When the last vestige of the school-house went down, all hope for the city passed away from men's minds. If that strong building could go so easily, they reasoned, where would the fire end. Men who had lost their stores and houses wandered about aimlessly, and it seemed a hopeless thing now to try to save anything.
Chapter 19
Section 204 cards
What happened to the Disciples of Christ meeting-house in Duke Street?
The Disciples of Christ (Christians) meeting-house was in Duke Street, built of wood, and burned very rapidly. The congregation had first worshipped in Charlotte Street at Mr. Jack's buildings, moving to Duke Street about twenty years earlier. Brother Tuttle was first pastor, then Mr. Eaton, Bro. Patterson, and Elder Geo. W. Garrity last. A few years before, a division led about half the members to build a new edifice at the head of Jeffrey's Hill.
Chapter 20
What does the chapter say about the old pitcher left on the chimney?
Before Mr. E. L. Jewett's house (once the home of the late Dr. Gray) caught fire, a gentleman stood on the roof for an hour or more dashing a pitcher of water on sparks at vulnerable spots. Seeing his effort was futile, he climbed down and left the pitcher on a chimney ledge. The building burned, leaving the long chimney standing, and next day the old pitcher alone remained, which the chapter says told the story of the desolation more eloquently than any orator or pen.
Chapter 20
What did people save and lose while piling goods in Queen Square?
Queen Square was filled with savings from nearby and distant homes, looking like a vast warehouse of bedding, chairs, bedsteads, stoves, and old pipes in hopeless confusion. In the hurry people grabbed what they saw first: a man saved an old tub and dipper while his library and private papers burned; a lady asked her husband to take a bag of family silver and he saved the rag-bag instead. The chapter notes kitchen commonplaces were saved while drawing-room furniture perished.
Chapter 20
What did the frightened five-year-old boy cry out during the Queen Square fire?
A five-year-old boy sat by the window of his grandfather's house, then thought safe, watching the flames. Unable to speak at first, he turned pale with terror and cried loudly, "O, pa, pa, come and see! God is burning up the world, and He won't make another, and He won't make another!" Efforts to pacify him failed; he only became calm after being taken far from the scene that had stirred his young imagination.
Chapter 20
Section 214 cards
What did Mr. Munro and a companion do to save Mrs. Freeman from burning?
At Queen Square, when Mrs. Freeman's children cried that their mother was on fire, Mr. Munro and a companion rushed in, seized her, and wound a carpet about her, trying to smother the flames with their hands. When the carpet was removed the fire seized her again, so her clothes were torn off and she was rolled on the grass with a table-cloth wrapped tightly around her, which saved her life.
Chapter 21
How was the sailor Robert Angus rescued from Mrs. Tucker's cellar?
Robert Angus, 2nd officer of the ship "Asiana," was working in the cellar passing items through the window, unaware of his danger until the house was on fire. Mr. Munro hastened to his relief and got him out; less than a hundred seconds later the house came tumbling down in a mass of ruins.
Chapter 21
How did Munro, Angus, and an old woman survive the night in Queen Square?
Unable to escape, they built a primitive shelter from an old pine table brought to their camping ground, a marble headstone placed at its head, and a carpet wrapped around them. An old woman hobbling up crying for help was invited to share it, and the three refugees watched the flames on every side for two hours.
Chapter 21
What did the sailor say when he broke down in the shelter?
The sailor, who had shown nerve and coolness throughout, began to talk of his home in England, his wife and children, and wept. He asked that if he died, they hunt up his family and tell them how he died, saying it was not for himself he felt but for them, and that his name and ship would let his mess-mates know what became of poor Bob Angus.
Chapter 21
Section 224 cards
How did Mr. Barnes save the Marine Hospital from the fire?
Mr. Barnes, the keeper, and a few inmates stationed themselves in good positions and made a vigorous defence, using well-directed buckets of water plied rapidly whenever the fire showed itself. The fire tried many times to gain a foothold, but the defenders were indomitable and the old building was saved. A nearby barn filled with goods, including a piano, perished.
Chapter 22
What conditions did Stephen Wiggins set for the Orphan Asylum?
Wiggins left $80,000 for a male Orphan Asylum. Each child had to be born in the City and County of St. John, with preference for fatherless children of mariners. Children had to be between four and ten at admission and could not stay past fifteen. No Unitarian, Universalist or Roman Catholic could serve as teacher or Governor. The institution was founded in 1867 and opened July 1, 1876.
Chapter 22
Why does the author say the Wiggins Orphanage could not be saved?
The author argues it is hard to fathom man's short-sightedness, noting the Marine Hospital was saved by Mr. Barnes and assistants while the Orphanage opposite burned. Only one man was left in charge of the Orphanage, and the author says it is not expected he could do everything when all were at their wits' end and full of excitement.
Chapter 22
What was lost when the Daily News office burned on Canterbury Street?
The Daily News office, between Mr. Jack's building and the Savings Bank, was erected about twenty years earlier by George E. Fenety and purchased by Willis & Mott the previous September. All that was saved were three pages of type and the late files of the paper, carried as far as Reed's Point and considered safe only at water mark. The brick building held the accountant's room, editor's office and reporters' room.
Chapter 22
Section 234 cards
What saved the Moran house on Chipman's Hill, and why did it matter?
The house was attacked by fire from front and rear, but Joseph Dunlop, his shipyard crew, and city firemen held the flames back. When window sashes caught fire and no timber or axes were available, the men tore the sashes away with their bare hands, suffering burns. This resistance prevented the fire from spreading to the northern part of the city along Union Street.
Chapter 23
What did thirteen-year-old Johnny Law do during the fire?
Left in charge of W. H. Gibbon's establishment while Gibbon was at Grand Lake, the boy saved the books and papers when flames approached. The flooring above fell while he was getting out, but he crawled on his hands and knees to escape. He also saved articles from the house and ensured the safe removal of Mrs. Gibbon and her young children.
Chapter 23
How does the chapter describe moneylending at Chubb's Corner?
The author describes it as a centre of commercial speculation where lenders and borrowers met, with rates set not by the consciences of the money-lenders but by the necessities of the applicant. He likens lenders to Shylock and calls their faces a barometer, since one could read the price of money by watching their expressions during a negotiation.
Chapter 23
What was destroyed on Prince William Street, and what had Chubb's Corner been used for?
Prince William Street was reduced to ashes and debris, including the Imperial Building, Robert Marshall's insurance office, Chubb's book store, and J. & A. McMillan's publishing establishment, first built in 1831. Chubb's Corner, destroyed around six o'clock, had long been a centre of commercial speculation, a site for public auctions of property and securities, and a meeting place for gossip.
Chapter 23
Section 244 cards
How did the Bank of New Brunswick fare in the Great Fire?
The chapter says the old bank was long deemed safe; merchants hurried in their books while the fire raged a quarter mile away. Though burned inside, its walls and pillars remained strong, and the vaults preserved their contents, so millions of money were saved. The author calls it a partial collapse only, with pillars and some walls still stalwart.
Chapter 24
How did the Post Office preserve the mails during the fire?
At three in the afternoon mail matter was bagged and prepared for departure. One load went to Reed's Point, and seventeen bags were carried by hand to the fish-market wharf, where a boat was seized and sixteen bags placed in it. Through Postmaster J. V. Ellis's foresight, no mail was lost or letter mislaid, and outgoing mails went as usual.
Chapter 24
What happened to the Daily Telegraph's editor in the fire?
The Daily Telegraph occupied the old wooden building adjoining the Commercial Bank building. The author states that Mr. Elder, its enterprising editor and proprietor, was a heavy loser: he lost his well-equipped printing office and appliances, his reference library and historic data gathered over many years, his bound files, and in fact everything he possessed.
Chapter 24
Who were the Bank of New Brunswick's first officers in 1821?
A general meeting of stockholders was held in May 1821, and on May 7 directors were chosen. The first President was Hon. John Robinson; directors included Wm. Black, Ezekiel Barlow, Lewis Bliss, Ward Chipman jr., Robert W. Crookshank, Henry Gilbert, Hugh Johnston, Nehemiah Merritt, Thos. Millidge, Robert Parker jr., Zalmon Wheeler and Stephen Wiggins. Only Lewis Bliss still lived at the time of writing.
Chapter 24
Section 254 cards
What happened to goods stored in the Custom House for safekeeping during the fire?
Hundreds of people, trusting in stone and brick, stored chattels in the Custom House, filling nearly all available space. When the building caught fire, almost everything was consumed; only trifles were saved. Robert Shives lost years of diaries and emigration-office papers, and several merchants lost account books they had sent there for safety.
Chapter 25
How did the Royal Hotel come to be destroyed, and who had warned of it?
The Royal Hotel, formerly Stubbs' Hotel, caught fire early in the afternoon from sparks. Inhabitants saw no danger and put the sparks out, but Mr. Waldron, Stage Manager of the Theatre, concluded it might be struck again and warned the others. The hotel did catch about an hour and a half later, and all on the ground save the old tree were ashes by night.
Chapter 25
How did Captain William M. B. Firth die in the fire?
Captain Firth lost his life while trying to save his property near Walker's wharf and Ward Street. He was last seen in Prince William Street, blinded by smoke and scorched by flames, attempting to escape. It is thought he sank down exhausted when all hope of egress failed, and death came there. His body was found the next day but not fully recognized and claimed until Saturday.
Chapter 25
What was the Nethery house in Church Street used for before the fire?
The old Nethery house in Church Street, built about 1823, housed Mr. Geo. A. Knodell's printing office and Mr. H. L. Spencer's medical warehouse. It was once the great headquarters of the Orangemen, where balls, parties, and dinners connected with the order were given, and from which the Orangemen marched on the famous twelfth of July when Duncan Wilmot was Mayor, at the time of the memorable riot. Mr. Knodell has begun rebuilding on the site.
Chapter 25
Section 264 cards
Who was Peter Johnson and what did he do at night?
Peter Johnson, a negro, was sent for by the timid money-lender who had lent Price bags of gold. In the dead of night, Johnson wheeled the mysterious bags of bullion to and from the old vaults in the Commissariat, using a key to open the heavy doors. He moved the money back to its owner the night before the commissioners examined Price's accounts.
Chapter 26
Why did the money-lender withdraw the bags of gold?
The money-lender was extremely timid. After sending the bags, he worried the commissioners might take the money elsewhere, or that the scheme would leak out, Price would be dismissed, and he would lose his money. Growing more anxious each day, he sent for Peter Johnson to bring the bags home the night before the examination.
Chapter 26
What happened when the commissioners asked to count the money?
Price assured them the funds were safe in the vault and said he had seen them recently. But when the iron doors were unlocked and swung back, the money was gone. Price turned pale and asked if it was a joke. He was marched off to prison, and the inspectors walked out behind him.
Chapter 26
What does the chapter say about Johnny Murphy's rescue?
The chapter calls it an incident deserving more than passing notice. Young Johnny Murphy, a mere child living with his mother in Charlotte Street, bravely jumped from the second-storey window of his residence with his younger brother in his arms. The author argues the act was that of a hero, worthy of admiration, and says the little fellow wears his honors meekly.
Chapter 26
Section 274 cards
How did Judge Ritchie acquire the old building on Rocky Hill in 1843?
Oliver Goldsmith told Judge Ritchie the Government wanted tenders for the old building on Rocky Hill and suggested he tender. The judge did so, and his was the only tender sent, so he got the whole property, including the house and a stone barn, for L500 sterling, payable three months after acceptance. He then rented it to Dr. Simon Fitch.
Chapter 27
Why did Judge Ritchie insure his new building, and what happened next?
Before leaving for Fredericton, Mr. L. J. Almon warned the judge he would feel foolish to hear his uninsured building had burned. Troubled, the judge told Almon to insure it at once, and Almon put L5,000 on the unfinished edifice. The judge then went to the capital, and within days learned the building had burned to the ground. He returned and rebuilt with great care.
Chapter 27
Why did New Brunswick Masons form their own Grand Lodge in 1868?
Until January 1868, lodges held warrants from the Grand Lodges of England, Scotland, or Ireland — twenty-six in the Province. After Confederation, leading Masons deemed it imperative to separate from the parent Grand Lodges. With three Grand Lodges already represented, plus Nova Scotia's and a coming Canadian one, so many jurisdictions would cause confusion. A convention carried the motion by a large majority.
Chapter 27
What became of the St. John Gymnasium Company's building?
The St. John Gymnasium (joint stock) Company began building in summer 1863 opposite St. John's Presbyterian Church, King Street East. It measured 40 x 100, three stories front, with the Gymnasium proper 40 x 80, costing a little over $5,000, heated by steam and lit by gas. It was later sold to Carson Flood and converted into a hall. During the fire it caught from the rear of the water-works and was soon ashes.
Chapter 27
Section 284 cards
What danger threatened the fifteen hundred refugees trapped on Reed's Point Wharf?
A long row of barrels of kerosene oil or petroleum lay on the wharf, and sparks from nearby burning buildings whirled dangerously close. If the barrels ignited and exploded, at least a hundred lives would perish. The crowd could not roll the heavy barrels into the harbour, so water had to be carried up to keep the fire off them.
Chapter 28
How did the doctor finally get the reluctant young man to help carry water?
The young man sat smoking a cigar and sneered, asking how much he would get for helping. The doctor, who said he had lost all he was worth, pulled him down, grasped him by the neck, ran him to the water, and set him to filling a pail. The young man worked hard, later apologized, and said he was sorry.
Chapter 28
What finally saved the wharf from the oil barrels?
After hours of the doctor carrying water alone, he hailed a passing tug-boat. The captain ran his steamer alongside the wharf and readied his hose, and in a few minutes the wharf was deluged with water, averting the great danger. The chapter credits this hose and the doctor's efforts with saving the wharf and many lives.
Chapter 28
How long were people imprisoned on the wharf, and what did the ferry passengers witness?
From fifteen hundred to two thousand persons were hemmed in by flames on the wharf from three in the afternoon until four the next morning, when the fire had gone down. Ferry passengers saw the city burning in four places at once, houses seeming to fall at a rate of one a minute, and vessels moving out to avoid collisions.
Chapter 28
Section 294 cards
How did the Western Union staff restore telegraph service after their office burned?
The office burned down and only books and some instruments were saved; the Fairville wire would not work. Superintendent R. T. Clinch, manager Thomas Robinson, Dawson, Black and others went to the railway station, where a wire was put in working order. The first and only dispatch to leave the city that night was telegraphed page by page as it was written, and by morning the office could receive and deliver messages.
Chapter 29
What difficulties did the telegraph office face in serving the public after the fire?
Demand was overwhelming: at one time between five and six hundred messages sat on the operator's table, and a sender might count himself fortunate if his telegram went off three hours after it was written. In some instances miscreants cut the wires a few days after the fire, forcing the company to send out twenty-five or thirty patrol men to guard them.
Chapter 29
What does the author say about heroes and how St. John honors them?
The author argues that in a young country without invading armies, heroes earn fame in nobler ways. He cites Halifax's England and St. John's honest Tom Sloven, a hero in humble life. He argues that from the ashes of the fire two names will live in people's hearts, and that although the effort he is about to relate was not successful, the deed attempted at imminent risk of life should never be forgotten.
Chapter 29
What does the author say about the incident he is about to relate?
He frames it as the great incident of the conflagration: a thrilling tale of a burning house, a tall figure in the hall, escape cut off, walking on coals, an open boat and the way to the wharf, terrible suffering, and an awful death in the street. He stresses that although the object was not successful, the deed was attempted at imminent risk to the lives of the chief actors.
Chapter 29
Section 313 cards
Why did Mr. Turnbull and his son fail to save Mrs. Reed?
Their charge, Mrs. Reed, struggled and refused to move, so the two men dragged her to the boat but fell from their now powerless arms. Weakened by the fire and sick at heart at their ill success, they could do no more. Mrs. Reed fell back and died with a smile on her lips; the men placed her by the boat and shouted for help, but the streets were bare of people.
Chapter 31
How did Mr. Turnbull and his son finally reach safety?
They ran over the lava-like street, the elder's inspiring words rousing the younger when his spirit lagged. Each foot was gained by a struggle and every yard won by a battle. Only when they reached Carmarthen Street did father and son realize they were saved; removing the covering from their heads, they looked back, knowing a moment more in that fire would have been their last.
Chapter 31
Why could the firemen not stop the conflagration?
The Portland contingent and city firemen drew lines round burning buildings and tried repeatedly to confine the fire, with some success near King Street East and toward Pitt. But the flames broke the lines and rose in a hundred new places, driving firemen and engines away. With only four engines against a fire burning in fifteen sections for nine steady hours in a gale, no one expected them to stop it.
Chapter 31
Section 324 cards
What happened to the housekeeper's moth-infested chairs during the fire?
The neat housekeeper twice sent her new upholstered chairs to upholsterers to remove moths, and was awaiting their return from the second one when the fire came. The chairs were burned up, moths and all, while her own house was untouched.
Chapter 32
What losses did the fire cause to the town's flour and bread supply?
The chapter says nearly all the flour in town was burned, with an estimated loss of about fifty or sixty thousand barrels. One man reportedly hurried out and paid $18 for a barrel, while several persons paid twenty cents a loaf for bread.
Chapter 32
What did the newly-married lady do with her valuables, and what happened?
Fearing the fire, she hired a team and sent her best furniture, bedding, her husband's clothes, and all her silver to her mother's house around four in the afternoon. By six, her mother's residence had burned down with everything in it, while her own house, about half a mile from the fire, was spared.
Chapter 32
What was the outcome of the incendiarism scare and the arrests made?
The cry of incendiarism raised alarm, and special constables, volunteer soldiers, and police were ordered to be vigilant. Several arrests were made, but most were unnecessary, as nearly all those arrested turned out to be noisy, drunken men whose actions were misinterpreted. Some real cases did occur, including a fire at J. and T. Robinson's building and a man caught setting fire to Mrs. David Tapley's house.
Chapter 32
Section 334 cards
How did St. John's burned-out merchants continue business after the fire?
With permission of the authorities, many merchants who were burned out and could not secure premises erected shanties on King and Market Squares, promising to pull them down before May 1, 1878. The city then looked quite primitive, with shanties of various sizes and styles meeting the eye everywhere.
Chapter 33
How quickly did St. John's newspapers resume publication after the fire?
The Telegraph came out the very morning after the fire, printed through the courtesy of Mr. George W. Day; the Globe did not lose an issue; the Daily News missed Thursday but issued on Sunday. Within a fortnight the News was printed full size from a new press on its old office site, with the Globe and Telegraph following a day or two later. The Freeman did not issue a paper.
Chapter 33
What happened when the Post Office walls were blown down?
Artillery volunteers under Lieutenant-Colonel S. K. Foster placed charges against the Post Office. Loose powder ignited the train and the wall came down prematurely; Gunner Walter Lamb was buried, then rescued by five men just before the second charge exploded. John Anderson, standing in Germain Street, was struck and died in a few days.
Chapter 33
What accidents occurred while walls were being pulled down after the fire?
A week after the fire, men taking down the Johnston estate building in Dock Street fled when the wall trembled; James Wilkins escaped but Thomas Sullivan was caught by bricks, his head cut and limbs bruised. Soon after, a vault wall fell and buried George Gallagher, who was taken to the Hospital and died within hours from a broken spine, fractured thigh and internal injuries.
Chapter 33
Section 344 cards
Who took charge of thirty-nine orphans after the St. John fire, and where were they taken?
Mr. R. B. Graham, the visiting agent of the Baldwin Place Home for Little Wanderers, kindly took care of thirty-nine orphans and carried them to Boston, Massachusetts.
Chapter 34
What happened to Mrs. Morton's manuscript 'On the Hills' during the fire?
Wm. Elder, Esq., of the St. John's Daily Telegraph, placed the manuscript of 'On the Hills' by Mrs. Morton (nee Irene S. Elder), a Nova Scotia writer, in his safe on the day of the fire. When the safe was opened, the manuscript was found quite legible.
Chapter 34
Which manuscripts were lost in the St. John fire, according to the chapter?
Prof. Wm. Lyall of Halifax lost a valuable treatise 'On the Emotions,' burned in Mr. Stewart's safe on King street. Mr. W. P. Dole lost all his sonnets and his late paper 'On Definitions,' on which he had spent considerable time.
Chapter 34
Why were three men digging by a blackened wall after midnight, and what did they find?
Unable to hire a team at any price during the fire, the men had dug a deep hole in the cellar and buried jewelry and silverware there. They were hunting for their own treasure, and eventually found it, not even discoloured.
Chapter 34
Section 353 cards
What do the surviving chimneys of the old barrack symbolize to the narrator?
The narrator calls the chimneys "sentinels" that stood before the city grew from hamlet to metropolis, witnessed its prosperity on the morning of June 20, and saw it stricken by sunset. He imagines they could tell tales of Lucknow, Cawnpore, Alma, and Inkerman, and says they hold bits of history the world will never know.
Chapter 35
What happened to the house the narrator recalls from his youth?
It is now only a pile of bricks, mortar, and heavy stones. Its owner, once comfortably off with carriage, horses, and a well-stocked library, is described as a poor man after the fire. The narrator recalls reading there, including an early eighteenth-century illustrated Milton, Pope's Homer, and the Chesterfield Letters.
Chapter 35
How was the skating rink used after the fire?
The rink became a refuge for over three hundred homeless people who lived, slept, and ate there for a week and more. It also served as a provision storehouse where the poor received daily necessities, and the ladies' dressing-room became a clothes department attending to applicants' needs.
Chapter 35
Section 363 cards
Who led the St. John Relief and Aid Society, and where did it open its office?
The Society's Directors included Mayor S. Z. Earle as President, W. H. Tuck as Vice-President, and Chas. H. Fairweather as Treasurer, with L. R. Harrison as Secretary. Funds were deposited in the bank to the Treasurer's credit. General D. B. Warner, U.S. Consul, became General Superintendent and opened his office at the rink.
Chapter 36
How did the Society's application and visitation system work?
Applicants sat on benches and were interviewed by six or seven interviewers at desks, answering questions on a paper that was signed and numbered by a clerk. Mr. Peter Campbell, superintendent of visitors, assigned it to the visitor for the applicant's district, who visited the home the next day. If relief was warranted, the applicant received orders for furniture, clothing, or provisions.
Chapter 36
What was the vowel index system, and what did urgent cases receive?
The vowel index system, run by book-keepers under Chief Book-keeper W. H. Stanley, registered each applicant's name, number, and residence; vouchers were filed in packages of a hundred so records could be found in seconds. Urgent cases received an "Immediate Relief" card giving a day or two's supply within half an hour, ahead of the regular visitation.
Chapter 36
Section 373 cards
How does the car-shed store-room control the release of supplies?
The car-shed adjoining the rink serves as store-room and receiving office, where Wm. Magee and James Reynolds receive supplies arriving by rail and cart. No article may leave for the rink departments unless an order comes from a department chief. Supplies are usually ordered in large morning quantities to last one day, and everything is done by check so nothing goes astray.
Chapter 37
How does the chapter describe the Directors' approach to relief and the Society's future?
The Directors are husbanding their resources and looking further ahead than the present hour, taking care to render judiciously the relief sent by generous friends abroad. The chapter states it is likely the St. John Relief and Aid Society will continue several years in active operation, with much to do and trying trials ahead in winter.
Chapter 37
What does the business list record about the banks and newspapers destroyed?
The list of business houses burnt out includes the Bank of New Brunswick (Hon. J. D. Lewin, President) on Princess Street, Bank of Nova Scotia (J. M. Robinson, Agent) and Bank of Montreal (E. C. Jones, Agent) at Market Square. It also lists Wm. Elder's Daily Telegraph and Ellis & Armstrong's Evening Globe, both on Prince William Street.
Chapter 37
Section 384 cards
What kind of information does this chapter present?
The chapter is a directory-style listing of businesses, professionals, and institutions, arranged alphabetically by surname. Each entry gives a name, an occupation or business type, and a street or wharf location. Entries include printers, liquor dealers, insurers, grocers, dentists, physicians, ship brokers, and hotels, reflecting the commercial makeup of the city at the time.
Chapter 38
Which entries in the chapter are listed as insurance businesses?
Several insurance entries appear: A. C. & G. E. Fairweather on Princess St., J. Macgregor Grant at Robertson Place, E. W. Gale on Prince William St., C. E. L. Jarvis and Wm. M. Jarvis on Princess St., Henry Jack on Canterbury St., and J. J. & J. S. Kaye on Princess St. Each is paired with a street location.
Chapter 38
What types of medical and dental practitioners are listed, and where?
The chapter lists Dr. J. M. C. Fiske, dentist, on King St.; Dr. Simon Fitch, physician, on Princess St.; Dr. Jas. E. Griffith, dentist, on Germain St.; Dr. J. C. Hatheway and Dr. Can. Hatheway, dentists, on Germain St.; Chas. Holden, physician, on Princess St.; and Dr. P. R. Inches, physician, on Germain St.
Chapter 38
How are hotels and liquor-related businesses represented in the chapter?
Hotels listed include R. S. Hyke's International Hotel on Prince William St., James Hinch's United States Hotel on Charlotte St., and Mrs. Lordly's Brunswick Hotel on Prince William St. Liquor entries include H. Finnegan, Geo. Flinn's saloon, M. A. Finn, John Foster, J. W. Fleming, Thos. Furlong, P. Gavin, John Horn, Wm. Kivenear, A. G. Kearns, M. Kavanagh, and Thos. Littlejohn.
Chapter 38
Section 393 cards
How are banks and insurance companies identified in the listings?
Financial institutions appear with named officers and office locations rather than trades. The Maritime Bank lists James Domville, M.P., as president, office at Market Square; the Maritime Insurance Co. names William Pugsley, Jr., as secretary, office on Prince William Street; and the Provincial Insurance Co. lists H. H. Reeve as agent, Princess Street.
Chapter 39
What range of occupations appears in this chapter's directory?
The listings cover a wide commercial and professional spectrum: dentists, physicians, bankers, ship-brokers, ship chandlers, sailmakers, boiler makers, stone cutters, photographers, jewellers, tailors, grocers, liquor dealers, undertakers, barbers, and boarding-house keepers. Addresses are given by street or wharf, such as Germain St, Prince William St, Water St, and North Wharf.
Chapter 39
Besides businesses, what institutions and halls are listed?
The directory includes institutional entries alongside firms: the Masonic Hall in Ritchie's building on Princess Street, the Oddfellows' Hall on Germain Street, Small's Hall on Dock Street, the Rural Cemetery Co. with G. Sidney Smith as secretary, the St. John Board of Trade with S. J. King as secretary, and the St. John Gas Light Co. with A. Blair as president.
Chapter 39
Section 404 cards
What did the Oddfellows' relief committee do for distressed members after the fire?
A meeting of leading members was held June 22 at the Oddfellows' Hall in Portland, where an Executive Committee was formed with one member from each Lodge and the Encampment. A sub-committee was then appointed to seek out and report any brother found to be in distress, so relief could be administered promptly.
Chapter 40
How does the chapter describe the Oddfellows' method of giving relief?
The author argues relief is given in secret, without ostentatious parade, so the recipient takes it not as charity but as his due. Members are expressly bound to accept sums offered, and sick members must take the weekly sick benefit, though they may donate it back. Widows receive from the Widows' and Orphans' Fund without feeling they accept alms.
Chapter 40
Which outside contributions to the Oddfellows' relief effort are named?
The Lodge in Moncton contributed $25 and asked to be drawn on up to one hundred dollars. Brother White of Bangor forwarded three hundred dollars and offered more if needed. Offers of assistance also came from Boston, Chicago and elsewhere. A committee was appointed to reply to the telegrams and convey the St. John Oddfellows' thanks.
Chapter 40
What happened to the Oddfellows' funds and property in the fire?
The chapter states the two principal funds, the Widows' and Orphans' Fund and the sick benefit, still remained intact and were held strictly in trust. The fire destroyed considerable property belonging to the organization, but actual suffering was confined to private members, many of whom lost everything and some of whom had trusted insurers that collapsed.
Chapter 40
Section 414 cards
Who were the three officers appointed to head the Department of Relief?
D. D. G. M. Gilbert Murdoch was appointed Chairman, R. Radford Barnes Treasurer, and John E. Hughes Secretary. The Executive and sub-Committees chose them immediately after the General Body's session, then adjourned, ordering all future committee sessions to be held in Room No. 9 of the Park Hotel, where these three heads would meet daily, receive reports, and supply assistance needed by the brethren.
Chapter 41
How did the committee handle secrecy and the search for those needing relief?
The chapter states the greatest secrecy was observed, so no one outside the Committee even knew the names of brethren being helped. The greatest care was exercised in searching out distress, and the author argues no one can ever tell the immense amount of good the society is doing. The system, the chapter says, has worked admirably.
Chapter 41
Where were relief moneys deposited, and how were they withdrawn?
All moneys were deposited in Maclellan & Co.'s banking house and were subject to withdrawal by check. Relief from Lodges and brethren continued to come in rapidly. The chapter lists sums received up to August 20th, including $500 from Chicago, Ill., $487 from Portland, Maine Oddfellows, $400 each from Bangor, Maine Oddfellows and the Ontario Grand Lodge, and many smaller lodge donations.
Chapter 41
What non-monetary supplies were donated, according to the chapter's list?
The chapter's supplies list records bedding and provisions from Charlottetown, P. E. I., and four cases of clothing from Portland, Maine. These appear separately from the money received from lodges and brethren, which was deposited in Maclellan & Co.'s banking house. The donation list is headed 'Money Received.'
Chapter 41
Section 424 cards
What was the largest single donation listed in this subscription record?
The Dominion Government and Toronto, Ontario each gave $20,000.00, the largest entries in the list. Glasgow, Scotland and Liverpool, England each contributed 14,600 pounds sterling, while Hamilton, Ontario gave $13,900.00 and Halifax, N.S. $10,000.00. Chicago City also donated $10,000.00.
Chapter 42
Which Scottish and English cities appear with identical donation amounts?
Glasgow, Scotland and Liverpool, England are each listed at 14,600, with the amounts given in pounds sterling rather than dollars. Manchester, England appears separately at 3,660. These British contributions sit alongside Canadian, American, and other colonial donations in the relief subscription list.
Chapter 42
What kinds of donors appear besides municipalities in this list?
The list includes churches and Sunday schools, Masonic and Orange lodges, temperance societies, boards of trade, stock and produce exchanges, insurance companies, banks, fire hose companies, theatre and concert benefits, school children, employers' employees, and named individuals giving amounts as small as $1.00.
Chapter 42
How do the Canadian and American totals compare in this subscription list?
Toronto and the Dominion Government lead at $20,000 each, with Hamilton at $13,900 and Halifax at $10,000. Among American entries, New York gives $8,500, Bangor, Me. $7,000, Portland, Me. $6,000, and San Francisco $5,600. Boston gives $5,000, while Chicago's city and exchanges together total over $18,000.
Chapter 42
Section 434 cards
Through whom were the Daniel & Boyd donations distributed, and what did James McLaren Nephews give?
Donations listed as sent to Messrs. Daniel & Boyd for distribution include $200 from W W Turnbull of St John and L100 Stg from Messrs. James McLaren Nephews of Manchester. Other donors in that list include G N Vanwart of Woodstock ($100), B Rosamond of Almonte ($50), and Loch & Co. of New York ($50).
Chapter 43
Which donors gave specifically to form a public library, and through whom were the books offered?
Liberal offers of books were sent to J & A McMillan to form the nucleus of a public library, from the publishing houses of Belford Bros of Toronto and Harper & Bros of New York. Separately, the Upper Canada Bible Society sent Scriptures valued at $500 to Thos. Maclellan.
Chapter 43
What did the Chicago Union Stockyards contribute, and how does it compare with Amherst and Annapolis?
The Chicago Union Stockyards sent supplies amounting to $3000.00, the largest single supply figure listed. Amherst, N S, sent supplies valued at $600.00, and Annapolis, N S, sent supplies worth $742.37. Halifax, N S, separately sent 2525 blankets, 50 stoves, and large quantities of supplies.
Chapter 43
What does the list under 'The Property Owners' record, and which streets are named?
The list records persons whose properties were destroyed, noting when an owner had more than one house. It is organized by location, including North Market Slip, North Street, Smyth Street, and Drury Lane. For example, Margaret S Robertson is listed with six houses on Smyth Street, and Wm Kievenar with two on North Street.
Chapter 43
Section 444 cards
What does the chapter list for each named street and wharf?
The chapter is a street-by-street roster of property owners and claimants after the 1877 St. John fire. Under headings such as Mill Street, Georges Street, Dock Street, Water Street, Prince William Street, Germain Street, Charlotte Street and Sydney Street, it names individuals, heirs, estates, businesses, churches, schools, banks and the City itself, sometimes with numbers in parentheses indicating multiple properties.
Chapter 44
How are deceased owners and estates recorded in the lists?
Many entries are marked as heirs rather than living owners, for example Heirs John Frost, Heirs E Lawrence, Heirs Peter Sinclair, Heirs Wm Sullivan, Heirs F W Hatheway and Heirs of Benjamin Smith. This shows that in numerous cases the burned property was claimed on behalf of an estate, with the heirs named collectively instead of an individual owner.
Chapter 44
Which institutions and corporate bodies appear among the property holders?
Beyond private names, the lists include banks such as the Bank of New Brunswick, Maritime Bank and Bank of Nova Scotia; churches and their trustees, including Trinity Church, Wesleyan Methodist, St. Andrew's Kirk, Germain Street Baptist and St. David's; schools such as the Grammar School and Varley School trustees; the Academy of Music Co., Victoria Hotel, insurance companies, the Dominion of Canada and the City.
Chapter 44
What do the parenthetical numbers after some names indicate?
Several names carry a number in parentheses, such as Robert Grace (2), Thos A Peters (2), Wm M B Firth (3), Chas Merritt (4), The City (4) and Heirs H Chubb (4). The chapter does not explain the notation, but it appears to distinguish multiple holdings or entries under the same owner rather than a single property.
Chapter 44
Section 453 cards
What does the chapter list under each street heading?
The chapter is a street-by-street roster of property owners and occupants affected by the fire, organized under headings such as Horsfield Street, Harding Street, Pagan Place, St. Andrew's Street, Carmarthen Street, Wentworth Street, Main Street, Britain Street, St. James Street, Pitt Street, Sheffield Street, Queen Square, Queen Street, and Mecklenburg Street. Entries are names, sometimes with a number in parentheses.
Chapter 45
What do the numbers in parentheses after some names indicate?
The chapter does not explain them. It simply prints names with figures such as (2), (3), or (4) after certain entries, for example 'Mrs W McKay (2)' on Horsfield Street or 'Knox and Thompson (4)' on Wentworth Street. The text gives no stated meaning for these parenthetical numbers, so their significance must be inferred from outside the chapter.
Chapter 45
How are heirs and estates recorded in the listings?
Some entries name heirs or estates rather than living individuals, such as 'Heirs J W Young (2)' on Harding Street, 'Heirs Aaron Eaton (3)' on Carmarthen Street, 'Gilbert estate' on Sheffield Street, and 'Mrs Charles Brown and heirs of Chas Brown' in Queen Square. This indicates property held by deceased owners' successors was still listed among affected holdings.
Chapter 45
Section 462 cards
What did the Masonic lodges lose in the Great Fire?
The private lodges saved nothing; all warrants, banners, jewels, clothing, and other paraphernalia were lost. Some lodges did not even rescue their seals, and Hibernia, Union Lodge of Portland, and New Brunswick Lodge lost their records. The chapter lists specific monetary losses for several lodges, including Union Lodge of Portland at $1,250 and Albion, No. 1, at $850.
Chapter 46
How did the two Masonic Encampments fare in the fire?
St. John Encampment lost $2,300 worth of property, including rich regalia, jewels, banners, charters, its seal, and members' armory regalia such as chapeaux, swords, belts, gauntlets, baldrics, and aprons. Hardly a member saved his masonic clothing. Union De Molay Encampment lost upwards of two thousand dollars in wardrobe and appliances.
Chapter 46
Section 474 cards
What Masonic property did the Grand Lodge lose in the fire, and what was saved?
Only the regalia, records, and full register of members were saved. The Grand Lodge's library of over four hundred volumes, described as the most complete of its kind in the Dominion, was burned, along with blank forms, certificates, files of documents, books of constitutions, and printed proceedings. The chapter states the loss above insurance was at least one thousand dollars, plus losses money could not replace.
Chapter 47
How did the Grand Lodge library's value extend beyond the price of the books?
The Grand Secretary, W. F. Bunting, spent many years collecting the books. Some were presentation volumes, some out of print and irreplaceable, and others high-priced modern textbooks valuable to Masonic students. The chapter says many had incalculable value from associations and each had a little history of its own, making the destruction a serious and irreparable loss to Freemasonry.
Chapter 47
What relief organization did the Masons form after the fire, and who led it?
The leading members organized a general masonic board of relief, separate from the city's ordinary relief board. It was composed of city members of the Board of General Purposes and presiding officers of all Masonic bodies. Grand Master R. T. Clinch was Chairman, Grand Treasurer Jas McNichol Jr. Treasurer, and Grand Secretary William F. Bunting Secretary; Edwin J. Wetmore was clerk.
Chapter 47
How did the Masonic relief board distribute aid, and to whom?
The board met daily from four to five to consider applications and grant relief at its discretion, helping brethren and also widows and orphans. Benefits were paid in money, from twenty to fifty dollars, by check signed by the treasurer and one other officer. Sometimes the board sought out distressed brethren rather than waiting for applications. Funds were deposited in the Bank of British North America.
Chapter 47
Section 484 cards
What area and street length did the fire destroy, according to Stewart's survey?
Stewart states that engineers re-surveyed the burned area at his request and found the fire destroyed two hundred acres of territory and nine and six-tenths miles of streets. He notes the acreage is not quite two hundred acres but near enough to accept that estimate, and that not more than two-fifths of the city burned, since Carleton and the upper city escaped.
Chapter 48
What total loss in dollars does Stewart settle on, and why does he reject assessors' books?
Stewart puts the loss at upwards of twenty-seven million dollars, or $27,000,000 in round figures. He argues assessors' books understate it because assessors value a merchant's stock at what they think it should be, not what it is; a man may hold $300,000 of stock while really owning about $50,000 and owing the rest, yet the fire carried away the whole stock.
Chapter 48
Why does Stewart argue burned land itself dropped in value after the fire?
Stewart concedes the land still exists but argues it is less valuable because locality, desirability and necessity had enhanced its worth, and many of those reasons vanished with the fire. Owners whose means were swept away cannot rebuild and are anxious to sell, so land in the burnt district has already dropped. He expects leading business streets to differ little, but other quarters to feel the loss for many years.
Chapter 48
What attitude does Stewart recommend, and what does he say the city has not lost?
Stewart warns against both over-sanguinity and gloomy inaction, urging determination and no delay in rebuilding. He acknowledges lost lives, buildings, stores and comforts, but says the city has not lost its glorious hope in the future, which he calls its salvation and the one beautiful thing left. He praises St. John's enterprising people and insists it might have been worse.
Chapter 48
Section 493 cards
How many houses burned in St. John, and which streets lost the most?
The chapter states 1,612 houses burned in total. The heaviest losses were on Princess Street (106), Duke Street (105), Britain Street (101), St. James Street (98), Prince William Street (95), Germain Street (87), Charlotte Street (84), and Queen Street (80). Smaller counts included Hare's Wharf and Robertson Place with one each.
Chapter 49
What did the chapter say about insurance payouts and which companies failed?
The author reports most companies paid at once. The Stadacona would pay within a year; the Provincial suspended but promised eventual payment; the St. John Mutual was called hopeless and would pay scarcely anything; the Central of Fredericton was said to pay shortly. Total insurance was estimated at about seven million dollars, though the author admits the figures are not quite correct.
Chapter 49
How did the fire's death toll grow after the earlier chapter, and what examples are given?
The author states many more deaths became known after the earlier chapter was written. Garret Cotter and Peter McGovern were killed by a falling cornice from the Adam's building. James Kemp and Thomas Holmes drowned when their small boat's bottom broke in the harbour, in view of spectators. Mrs. Cohalan was lost in Smyth Street, and remains of others were later identified.
Chapter 49
Section 504 cards
Who led relief efforts for fire victims at the Public Hospital?
Dr. Hanington, the physician in charge, did all in his power to make the injured comfortable, and the matron and other assistants gave efficient and prompt aid. The chapter notes that in the haste not all names of the injured could be recorded, and lists those treated, including John Anderson and George Gallagher, who died in the Hospital from their wounds.
Chapter 50
How did Intercolonial Railway officials assist St. John after the fire?
C. J. Brydges and R. Luttrell of the Intercolonial Railway promptly placed fast trains at the service of the Relief Committee and forwarded free passengers and supplies. The chapter says excellent service was thus performed, that Luttrell lost no time meeting the emergency and spent several days relieving the sufferers' wants, and that the thanks of the people of St. John are largely due to both men.
Chapter 50
What did the Orange Lodges lose in the fire, and how were members helped?
The Orange Lodges meeting in Thomas H. Hall's building on King Street lost most of their regalia, though the banners were saved. Insurance on the hall and furniture was only five hundred dollars, while the loss reached at least two thousand, after recent expense fitting up a tasteful lodge-room. Leading brethren formed a relief organization, with Grand Master Edward Willis and others on the Relief Committee.
Chapter 50
Why does the author argue lost books cannot simply be replaced?
The author argues that insurance money may buy copies of lost books, but they will not be the same copies. Readers know just where to find what they want in their own books, and new copies never seem the same. He mourns lost private libraries, pamphlets, scrap-books, and unbound magazines, and says the mind craves food of its kind as much as the stomach craves meat and bread.
Chapter 50
Section 514 cards
What did Dr. William Bayard's medical library represent, and what was saved from it?
The chapter states Dr. Bayard's collection was the fullest and ripest medical library in the Dominion, begun by his father and enlarged by the Doctor, with rare illustrated works costing up to L30 sterling. Not one volume was saved; only a photograph album was rescued from the burning house.
Chapter 51
What subjects especially distinguished James R. Ruel's library?
Mr. Ruel, Collector of Customs, had a fine library rich in theology and higher literature, including controversial works, science, and British poetry. It was especially full in History and Geography, and every work of character about the Reformation in England could be consulted there, a department he made his especial study.
Chapter 51
What made B. Lester Peters's library notable, and what happened to his pamphlets?
Mr. Peters's library was complete in History, Biography, Belles-lettres and Theology, with fine bindings and ample Elizabethan playwrights such as Shakespeare, Jonson, Massinger, Beaumont and Fletcher. His pamphlet collection, the labour of thirty years, including the Connolly and Wilmot controversy, was unique but entirely gone, with not a fragment remaining.
Chapter 51
What does the chapter say about Fred R. Fairweather's library and its loss?
Mr. Fairweather's library was the richest in St. John for costly, handsomely bound books, including Balzac in the original, illustrated Shakespeare editions in antique morocco, books of plates, and costume books from Saxon times onward. In dramatic literature it was probably the fullest in the Dominion, and the author argues its loss is a positive loss to literature, since many books were out of print.
Chapter 51
Section 524 cards
What did Mr. R. M. Longmaid lose in the fire, and how was one picture saved?
Longmaid lost all but one of his pictures, including Mulvany's Francis I. and Henry VIII. on the Field of the Cloth of Gold and Cairns's Glen Cairn. The single saved work was a Welsh Landscape by A. Vickers, which had been lent to a friend in the upper part of town and so escaped the flames.
Chapter 52
How did Mr. James Stewart's copied landscape compare with the original?
Stewart copied a landscape by an English artist that had come out as a prize years earlier. When his finished copy was hung beside the original, the owner could not tell which was his own picture. The copy was in Mr. Notman's studio before the fire and is believed lost.
Chapter 52
What does the author argue art and literature do for people, and can money replace them?
The author argues that love of art and literature refines and beautifies mankind, takes away the brutal in our nature, and lifts us up. He insists money cannot replace these treasures, since they were companions and friends, and cannot restore a portrait of a lost loved one or a gifted book of poetry.
Chapter 52
Why does the author claim his book is reliable despite its hasty writing?
The author says his publishers demanded the book and gave him only a fortnight to write it, so he claims nothing for it on literary style. He does claim the history is reliable in every particular, stating that no statement was written until thoroughly verified and that the book records the fire as it was.
Chapter 52
Section 533 cards
Who supplied the moonlight picture of the ruined Germain Street Baptist Church?
Mr. John C. Miles, described by the author as a St. John artist of good reputation, kindly supplied the little picture of the ruins of the Germain Street Baptist Church by moonlight. The author acknowledges his politeness in the book's concluding remarks.
Chapter 53
Why did many fire sufferers lack insurance, according to the author?
The author explains that many sufferers had no insurance because the supposed superiority of the fire department and the general efficiency of the water supply created a false sense of security. This led to a popular belief that St. John could not be scourged by fire as Boston and Chicago had been.
Chapter 53
What do the Oddfellows' lodge figures show about total losses?
The table lists four lodges—Pioneer No. 9, Beacon No. 12, Peerless No. 19, and Siloam No. 29—totaling 443 members, 152 sufferers, 338 dependents, and 490 total sufferers and dependents. Approximate property lost by sufferers was $557,410, less insurance of $140,052, for a net approximate loss of $417,358.
Chapter 53
Section 544 cards
What did the Portland fire of October 1877 destroy and how many people did it displace?
It destroyed seven blocks of buildings, including ninety-seven dwelling houses, the Methodist Church and the Temperance Hall, and threw two hundred and ninety-five families—about three thousand persons—into the street. The estimated loss was $250,000, with insurance of scarcely $70,000. One man died horribly and several were injured.
Chapter 54
Where and when did the Portland fire originate, and what did some suspect about its cause?
It broke out at a quarter to three in the morning in a wood-house in the centre of the block between Main and High Streets, in the rear of Henry Pratt's house. Since fire had been discovered in that locality twice recently, many believed it was the work of an incendiary.
Chapter 54
How did the earlier St. John fire affect the response to the Portland fire?
The author says the lesson of the June 20th fire had a salutary effect: aided by brave firemen, citizens made every effort to stop the flames and partly succeeded. City aid arrived soon after the alarm, and the Town Council under Chairman Henry Hilyard organized the firefighting well. The fire was subdued by half-past eight.
Chapter 54
What happened to the St. John refugees living in Portland when the second fire struck?
Seven hundred people from St. John's burnt district had moved to Portland and had just finished arranging for the winter when the fire left them, with twenty-three hundred others, homeless again. The author notes their lot was sad, and that some complained loudly and many women wept at the sight of the desolation.
Chapter 54
Section 553 cards
Who was the only fatality of the fire, and how did he die?
George Baxter, a ship carpenter living on High Street, was found charred in the ruins of his house. It is thought he entered to save some of his effects, could not find his way out, and was struck down, suffering a terrible death. Other casualties listed were mostly injuries: James Ennis badly cut on the head, Nicholas Ryan bruised in a fall, and Mrs. Reed struck by a falling ladder.
Chapter 55
What does the chapter say about the Temperance Hall?
The chapter states that the Temperance Hall was one of the most useful institutions in the town, and that many will deplore the destruction of this building. No further details about its location, size, or occupants are given in this section.
Chapter 55
How does the chapter present the list of burned buildings?
It gives a complete list, organized by street and side, from Main Street south side to Portland and Camden streets. In each entry the first name is the owner and the other is the occupant, sometimes with occupation noted, such as grocery, liquor store, or boarding house. Some entries note houses only damaged, and several barns are listed separately.
Chapter 55
Section 564 cards
How did the Portland Town Council organize relief for fire sufferers?
At eleven o'clock the Portland Town Council met to consider relief for the sufferers, with the Mayor of St. John, Dr. Earle, the High Sheriff, and Harris Allan of the Relief and Aid Society present. It resolved that the council should attend to the wants of the homeless and appointed committees for school-houses, the engine house, cooking stoves, provisions, and straw mattresses. On the night of the fire upwards of fifty families were sheltered by the authorities.
Chapter 56
Which insurance company had the largest total losses listed in the chapter?
The Queen had the largest total at $16,200, made up of $15,200 in claims plus $1,000 in partial losses. Its claims included Robert Rankin at $2,000 and $1,500, the Methodist Mission House at $2,400, and James Scott at $1,700. By comparison the Provincial totaled $8,100, the Imperial $7,100, the Canada Fire and Marine $6,950, and the Royal Canadian only $600.
Chapter 56
What donations in cash and supplies had been received by November 28th, 1877?
Cash donations included $5,000 from the St. John Relief Committee, £100 sterling from Wm. Wright of Liverpool (recorded as $479.32), $100 from George W. Roberts of Liverpool, and $48.50 from Wheelright, Anderson & Co. of Boston. Supplies included twenty barrels of potatoes from P. Nase & Son, thirty from Vroom & Arnold, four stoves from Chas. Fawcett, and blankets valued at $75 from Thomas Cusack.
Chapter 56
How long did the St. John Relief Committee give temporary relief, and who took over?
On Monday, 22nd October, a general meeting of the St. John Relief Committee decided that temporary relief should be given at once to the poor. This lasted one week. At the end of that time the Board of Directors, consisting of the whole Council of the Town of Portland, were in a position to administer their own relief. A ladies' committee, including Mrs. Simon Baizley and Mrs. Barnhill, was also organized.
Chapter 56
Section 574 cards
How does the transcriber represent the pointing-hand symbol in Footnote M?
The transcriber notes that Footnote "M" contains a picture of a pointing hand within the text. Rather than reproducing the hand symbol, the transcriber substitutes the characters "==>" to stand in for it.
Chapter 57
What does the transcriber say about correcting inconsistencies in the text?
The transcriber retained inconsistencies in hyphenation, punctuation, spacing, italicization and capitalization, except where listed. Typographical corrections were made only for sections where the majority of the text adheres to a general standard, since the author stated the book "has many imperfections" from rapid preparation for the publisher's timeline.
Chapter 57
How were illustrations handled in this transcription?
The transcriber states that illustrations have been moved near the relevant section of the text. Also, "=" is used in the text to denote use of an ornamental font.
Chapter 57
What kinds of items appear in the list of minor typographical corrections?
The list includes changes such as "1831" to "1841" on Page iv, "Palace" to "Place" and "Andrews" to "Andrew's" on Page v, "Elgir" to "Elgin" on Page 32, "gronnds" to "grounds" on Page 85, "Auctioner" to "Auctioneer" on Page 200, and "fir" to "fire" on Page 241.
Chapter 57
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Text used: Project Gutenberg eBook #39260 (Public domain in the United States). Generated from the full text; cards paraphrase the source.
Version: Public domain edition. Retrieved 2026-10-26. Cards reviewed 2026-10-26.
These cards paraphrase the text for study. They are not a substitute for reading the book, and they do not reproduce long passages.
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