The Harris Block on Atlantic St. was gutted by fire with a loss of over $250,000 and 18 Injured
In the heart of Stamford, CT, a major fire raged with relentless fury, engulfing the historic Harris building at 328 Atlantic St. Flames leaped from one floor to the next, and as the inferno intensified, it spread to the nearby Cook building, nestled at the corner of Atlantic and Cottage Street. The scene was one of chaos and devastation.
Braving the biting cold of a January night, Firefighters valiantly battled the blaze for an exhausting eight hours.
Tragically, the fire resulted in 17 families losing their homes that fateful night. In the rush to escape the spreading flames, most residents had no opportunity to gather their cherished belongings. Some were fortunate enough to be rescued through the heroic efforts of the fire department’s ladders, while others navigated their way to safety using the rear fire escapes.
The disaster dominated the headlines of local newspapers for months, its impact echoing throughout the community. It was a dark chapter in Stamford’s history, leaving behind a profound sense of loss and grief.
However, amidst the devastation, something remarkable transpired. The spirit of community emerged stronger than ever. Hundreds of compassionate individuals, including soldiers and sailors who were on leave for the New Year’s holiday, flocked to the scene to offer their assistance. Interestingly, this was not the first time soldiers, and sailors came to the assistance of Stamford Firefighters. Back in 1918, again on Atlantic Street, soldiers and sailors helped out at another fire.
These altruistic gestures touched the hearts of many and served as a poignant reminder of the resilience and camaraderie that defines a community in times of crisis. Chief Veith, a steadfast leader, repeatedly acknowledged and praised the unwavering support of those who rallied behind the firefighting efforts. Their dedication and selflessness played an instrumental role in mitigating the disaster’s impact, preventing it from spiraling into an even greater tragedy.
In the aftermath, the community united to support the displaced families, offering shelter, supplies, and emotional solace. As the city of Stamford rebuilt and healed, the memory of that ferocious fire remained etched in the collective consciousness for years. But over time, the fire had been forgotten… until today.
It was the tale of unity, heroism, and resilience that would resonate for generations to come, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the people of Stamford, CT. Let it live on.
