George Jeffries, Jr., November 23rd, 1837
On the morning of November 23, 1837, at about 5 am, a fire broke out in the three-story building occupied by the carpenter shop of Mr. Strong, and Counting Room of Mr. Truefit. Located on Norris’ Alley, one block north of Walnut Street, between Front & Second Sts. The firemen were hampered by the unusually cold weather, so cold that water froze on the firemen’s clothes and equipment. During the blaze, the wall of the building suddenly fell, trapping several firemen. George Jeffries, a 20-year-old member of the Fame Hose Company was so deeply trapped under debris that it took the men twenty-five minutes to dig him out. His injuries were so severe that he died later that evening. Firefighter Burd of the Hibernia Engine Company had one of his legs crushed.
George Jeffries, Jr., November 23rd, 1837
On the morning of November 23, 1837, at about 5 am, a fire broke out in the three-story building occupied by the carpenter shop of Mr. Strong, and Counting Room of Mr. Truefit. Located on Norris’ Alley, one block north of Walnut Street, between Front & Second Sts. The firemen were hampered by the unusually cold weather, so cold that water froze on the firemen’s clothes and equipment. During the blaze, the wall of the building suddenly fell, trapping several firemen. George Jeffries, a 20-year-old member of the Fame Hose Company was so deeply trapped under debris that it took the men twenty-five minutes to dig him out. His injuries were so severe that he died later that evening. Firefighter Burd of the Hibernia Engine Company had one of his legs crushed.
Career History
Volunteer with the Fame Hose Company