A glimpse into the devastating fire of January 18, 1898

by Timothy Page

On January 18, 1898, Barre was struck by a devastating fire that consumed the historic Barre Opera House on Main Street. This revered cultural venue, renowned for its theatrical performances and musical concerts, met a tragic end, due in part to frozen fire hydrants.

The fire broke out in the early morning. Contemporary newspaper reports, such as those from the Barre Daily Times and the Vermont Watchman and State Journal, recount the blaze that began in the backstage area and swiftly spread throughout the main hall, reducing the entire building to ashes within a matter of hours.

The severe winter conditions that gripped Barre on that fateful day posed substantial challenges for the local fire department. Freezing temperatures rendered the fire hydrants inoperable, impeding the firefighters’ ability to access a reliable water supply. This predicament forced them to seek alternative sources, such as nearby wells and rivers, to combat the raging inferno.

In the aftermath of the devastating fire, the resilient community of Barre rallied together to rebuild their cherished Opera House. Historical sources chronicle the community’s determined fundraising efforts to resurrect the Opera House from the ashes. The Barre Opera House was eventually reconstructed, serving as a testament to the indomitable spirit and enduring love for the arts within the community.

Today, the Barre Opera House stands as a symbol of triumph over adversity, preserving the legacy of artistic expression and community spirit for future generations to embrace.

Sources:

The Barre Daily Times, January 19, 1898.

The Vermont Watchman and State Journal, January 20, 1898.