"Big Nampa Fire" of 1909

"Big Nampa Fire" of 1909

Fires -- Idaho -- Nampa -- History

On the afternoon of July 3, 1909, an unknown man entered Arnold's Cigar Store (located on Front Street, across from the Nampa Depot.) The shop had fireworks displayed for sale for the upcoming Independence Day Celebration. The stranger picked up a firework and said he wanted to see how it would burn. Before Mr. Arnold could stop him, the impulsive individual lit the firework and set off the remaining fireworks in the display. Fortunately, the 4-5 people in the store were able to escape, but the ensuing conflagration burned the entire block bounded by Front Street and First Streets between Twelfth and Thirteenth Avenue.

To view further details, click on the individual photos included, taken of that fateful day.

Fire Engines and Equipment
George T. Mayhugh

Photo