When Fire Company 15 arrived at the John E. Hurst & Company building, they did not think much of the fire. Upon examining the buildings alarm system, the fire appeared to be coming from the basement. Shortly after entering the building, fire fighters entered noticed black smoking coming up from the basement through the elevator shaft. Soon there was a huge explosion coming from the upper floors. This explosion was so intense it blew off the roof, broke many windows, and spewed burning embers on surrounding buildings.


Photo from Enoch Pratt Free Library

The fire initially spread north east towards city hall and court house, due to the southwest blowing winds. All of Baltimore City Fire Fighters were in full force fighting the fires. By 1:30pm, Washington DC fire fighters showed up to assist in putting out the fire. Unfortunately, this was before standardized parts and their couplings did not fit into Baltimore fire hydrants. DC fire fighters wrapped the couplings in cloth so they could attach to the hydrants. But, this made them much less productive. Fire companies that came from other areas had similar problems. There were over 600 different types of fire hose couplings used through out America at this time.