Uploaded May 2019 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
In this episode of Learn Something New™ from NFPA Journal®, the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 is remembered for its significant impact on building construction in cities.
While the cause of the fire has never been proven, the destruction was severe. Fueled by strong winds, the fire ravaged wooden frame construction throughout the city: 17,500 buildings were destroyed and 300 people lost their lives. The fire consumed an area of 4 miles long by 1 mile wide—and set forth a legislative effort to rebuild with fire-resistant materials. Instead of wood, regulations required that buildings be made of stone or brick, or other noncombustible materials.
After the Great Chicago Fire, national recommendations were established for new construction methods and fire safety.
© 2019 National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®). All rights reserved.
In this episode of Learn Something New™ from NFPA Journal®, the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 is remembered for its significant impact on building construction in cities.
While the cause of the fire has never been proven, the destruction was severe. Fueled by strong winds, the fire ravaged wooden frame construction throughout the city: 17,500 buildings were destroyed and 300 people lost their lives. The fire consumed an area of 4 miles long by 1 mile wide—and set forth a legislative effort to rebuild with fire-resistant materials. Instead of wood, regulations required that buildings be made of stone or brick, or other noncombustible materials.
After the Great Chicago Fire, national recommendations were established for new construction methods and fire safety.
© 2019 National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®). All rights reserved.
