Great Boston Fire of 1872

The Great Boston Fire of 1872, one of the most destructive urban fires in U.S. history, began at a dry goods store on Kingston and Summer Streets. It quickly spread due to poor building codes, low water pressure, and inadequate fire equipment. 

The fire destroyed 776 buildings, killing 13-20 people and injuring many, including 17 firefighters. The estimated damages were around $75 million ($1 billion today). In its aftermath, Boston strengthened its building codes, insurance laws, and widened streets to prevent future disasters.