Posted in Wisconsin October 25, 2019 by

One Of The Worst Disasters In U.S. History, The Peshtigo Fire, Happened Right Here In Wisconsin

A lot of great things have happened here in Wisconsin. There have also been a few not-so-great things, like The Peshtigo Fire. Though it occurred nearly 150 years ago, the fire remains the deadliest in U.S. history. Read on (and watch the video below) to learn about the catastrophe, which was as horrifying as it was destructive.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Today, Peshtigo looks like a typical small town. However, it’s actually the site of one of the most devastating events in history, The Peshtigo Fire.
Royalbroil/Wikimedia
The fire roared through Peshtigo on October 8, 1871, which was the same day as The Great Chicago Fire. Though the Chicago fire was far less deadly, it received widespread media coverage, ultimately overshadowing The Peshtigo Fire.
Currier and Ives - Chicago Historical Society/Wikimedia
Wreaking irrevocable havoc, The Peshtigo Fire consumed 1.5 million acres of land and claimed the lives of about 2,500 people.
Peshtigo Times - Peshtigo Fire museum/Wikimedia
The historic blaze started off as a wildfire. High winds then caused the fire to spread rapidly, spurning fiery tornadoes or firestorms. According to reports, Peshtigo residents likened the sound of the approaching firestorms to the rumble of a freight train.
Monica58860/TripAdvisor
Residents tried to escape the inferno by jumping into the Peshtigo River. Unfortunately, the firestorms were able to leap over large bodies of water.
G. J. Tisdale - Peshtigo Fire museum/Wikimedia
The fire’s destruction was absolutely devastating, leaving behind piles of ashes and charred lumber.
Wikimedia
Today, you can learn all about the fire by paying a visit to Peshtigo Fire Museum, which is housed in the first church built after the fire.
Terry Rice/Google
Offering a unique glimpse into the past, the museum houses an impressive variety of artifacts from the historic blaze.
Citallwic/TripAdvisor
There are also displays depicting what life was like at the time of the fire.
Citallwic/TripAdvisor
To make sure each visit is as informative as possible, museum workers are on hand, ready to share the story of the catastrophe.
Peshtigo Fire Museum/Facebook

Watch the video below to learn more about the Peshtigo Fire. It was posted on YouTube by The History Guy: History Deserves To Be Remembered: 

For more information, call Peshtigo Fire Museum at (715) 582-3244. You can also visit the Peshtigo Historical Society’s website or Facebook page.

Did you know about The Peshtigo Fire? If so, were you aware that it was the nation’s deadliest? Tell us in the comments section.

Address: Peshtigo, WI, USA