Disasters in History: the October 1871 Fires with Connections to the Marshall Fire
Channel: Highlands Ranch Historical Society
Date: 2022-01-19

December 2021, Marshall Fire was devastating. However, it was not without precedent. In October 1871, a massive weather system powered catastrophic fires in the drought-stricken Midwest. Most people have heard of the Great Chicago Fire, but fewer are familiar with the Peshtigo Fire that occurred during those same days. There were other fires, too. This presentation will explain what happened in October 1871 before, during, and after those fires and provide connections to the Marshall Fire.

Presented by Einar Jensen, Risk Reduction Specialist with South Metro Fire Rescue. He was a firefighter for 15 years and has now been in the fire service for 24 years. Einar studied history at the University of Montana and University of Puget Sound. He has published a trio of books: his nonfiction book Ancient Fire, Modern Fire: Understanding and Living with Our Friend & Foe, a history of the Idaho Springs Fire Department, and a novel called Code Violations. He belongs to the Fire Marshal’s Association of Colorado, Pikes Peak Wildfire Prevention Partners, and National Science Teachers Association.

Please forgive the technical glitch with the video between 0:25-0:45

Also covered, practical reminders for all:
Disaster prevention for homeowners and businesses, wild fire and other preparedness measures. Prepare, Prevent, Plan
Please consider donating to the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army.

This was the January 2022 monthly members program for the Highlands Ranch Historical Society.