Title: The Great Chicago Fire and the myth of Mrs. O'Leary's cow /
Authors: Bales, Richard F., 1951-
Publisher: McFarland,
Year: 2002
Subjects: Great Fire, Chicago, Ill., 1871.; Chicago (Ill.) History
Abstract: "In this comprehensive and painstakingly detailed study, author Richard F. Bales disproves not only the O'Leary story (along with other popular fabrications of the time), but the commissioners' report as well. Using rare land tract records and more than 1,100 handwritten pages of transcript from the 1871 investigation, Bales uncovers solid evidence of official indifference, a bungled inquiry aimed at preserving reputations rather than pressing for answers - and the possible source of the spark that leveled a city."--Jacket.
Contents: A city on fire -- The exoneration of Mrs. O'Leary -- Debunking other myths -- The real cause -- The inquiry--charade or coverup? -- Mrs. O'Leary's legacy -- Afterword -- Questions, mysteries, and controversies -- Behind the conclusions -- "How it originated"--the McDermott letter and the O'Leary and Sullivan affidavits -- Selections from the transcript of the inquiry into the cause of the Chicago Fire and actions of the fire department -- "After the inquiry"--The December 12, 1871, Report of the Board of Police and Fire Commissioners -- Sources consulted for photographs, drawings, and diagrams.