This image is being made available for educational and research purposes only, under the fair use clause of the U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17 § 107 U.S.C.) Further questions regarding the image or its use may be directed to the California History and Genealogy Room, Fresno County Public Library, 2420 Mariposa St., Fresno, CA 93721-2285; (559) 488-3195, press #3, then #5.
Description
"Forsyth Building is completely destroyed by Fire, loss million" read the headline in the 20 March 1921, Fresno Morning Republican newspaper. The fire chief characterized the event as the biggest fire in the history of Fresno. A conservative estimate placed the loss at one million dollars. The structure located at the corner of Tulare and J (Fulton) streets was constructed in 1904 by William Forsyth, T.W. Patterson, and W.A. Nevills. The fire started at approximately 8:30 PM on Saturday the 19th of March 1921 in the basement of "The Wonder", a women's apparel store located on the ground floor. The fire quickly spread to all four floors. Located on the first floor with The Wonder was the Reliable Shoe Store, Harris Lunch, and the Forsyth Barber Shop. The second floor was totally occupied by offices. Additional office space was on the third floor along with the Sequoia Club. Apartments filled the top floor with several residents having to be rescued by ladder.
Forsyth, William, 1850-1910 Patterson, Thomas W., 1859-1914 Nevills, William A Forsyth Building (Fresno, Calif.) Photographs Fires--California--Fresno--20th Century--Photographs Fresno County (Calif.)--Buildings, structures, etc.--20th century--Photographs
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