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Great Northern Fire

10/11/2009:

An enormous wildfire was reported by The Fargo Forum on this date in 1910. The fire swept across northern Minnesota and into southern Canada. Thousands were left homeless and entire herds of livestock were burned in the blaze, which raged for days. Towns, such as Rainy River, Baudette, and Spooner, were burned to the ground, and martial law was declared as looting became a problem. Over a million acres in Minnesota were consumed by the fire, and dozens of people lost their lives. The Fargo Commercial Club, led by President Hardy, voted to send relief to the area, an effort applauded by Congressman Hanna, who said, "It is a movement in which every public spirited citizen should assist."

Dakota Datebook written by Jayme L. Job

Source:

The Fargo Forum and Daily Republican, Monday (Evening ed.), Oct. 10, 1910: p.1.

The Fargo Forum and Daily Republican, Tuesday (Evening ed.), Oct. 11, 1910: p.1.