The Great Molasses Flood, which occurred in 1919, is a tragic and unusual event that took place in Boston, Massachusetts, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s history. This bizarre catastrophe involved a massive tank filled with molasses that burst open, resulting in a deadly wave of sticky syrup inundating the streets. Here is a detailed description of this calamity:
The Background: In the early 20th century, the Purity Distilling Company, a subsidiary of the United States Industrial Alcohol Company, owned a massive tank in the North End neighborhood of Boston. The tank, located at 529 Commercial Street, was approximately 50 feet tall and 90 feet in diameter. It held a staggering 2.3 million gallons of molasses, a sweet and viscous byproduct of processing sugar cane into refined sugar.
The Disaster: On January 15, 1919, an unusually warm winter day, the temperature in Boston had risen considerably following a frigid period. This abrupt temperature change is believed to have played a significant role in the disaster. The warm weather caused the molasses inside the tank to expand, putting tremendous pressure on the tank’s walls. The tank had been poorly constructed and had numerous structural issues that were known to the company, but no substantial efforts were made to address them.
In the afternoon, at around 12:30 p.m., the tank could no longer withstand the mounting pressure. It suddenly ruptured, releasing a massive and powerful wave of molasses. The wave was estimated to be 25 feet high and traveled at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, unleashing a devastating force that tore through the surrounding area.
The Aftermath: The deluge of molasses was horrific. Buildings were destroyed, and people and animals were swept away. The sticky syrup coated streets, making it challenging for first responders to navigate the disaster scene. It took days to clean up the mess, as volunteers, emergency workers, and local residents shoveled through the thick molasses.
The human toll of this tragedy was significant. Twenty-one people lost their lives, and about 150 individuals were injured, many of whom suffered severe burns and broken bones. The molasses also caused emotional trauma for those who witnessed the disaster and its aftermath.
Investigations and Legal Proceedings: In the wake of the Great Molasses Flood, investigations were launched to determine the cause of the catastrophe. It was revealed that the tank’s construction had been hasty, and corners had been cut to save money during a time of high demand for industrial alcohol. The company was accused of negligence in maintaining the tank and disregarding safety concerns.
As a result, several lawsuits were filed against the United States Industrial Alcohol Company. After a lengthy legal battle, the company eventually paid settlements to the victims’ families.
Legacy: The Great Molasses Flood remains a notable part of Boston’s history. The disaster had a significant impact on safety regulations and the construction of large industrial tanks, prompting changes in oversight and standards. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of corporate responsibility and the need to prioritize safety in industrial settings. To this day, the story of the Great Molasses Flood continues to capture the imagination of people interested in unusual and tragic historical events.
Weird, but true.
