The Great Fire of 1910: The Big Burn

Overview

The Great Fire of 1910, also known as the Big Burn, was one of the largest wildfires in U.S. history. It began on August 20, 1910, and swept through northeast Washington, northern Idaho, and western Montana. This catastrophic event burned approximately 3 million acres of forest, reshaping the landscape and influencing U.S. forest management policies for decades.

Context and Causes

The summer of 1910 was exceptionally dry, with the region experiencing a severe drought. This created ideal conditions for wildfires. Additionally, the burgeoning timber industry had left large amounts of flammable debris in the forests. The combination of dry conditions, high winds, and an abundance of fuel led to a perfect storm for a wildfire of unprecedented scale.

Key Events

• August 20, 1910: A series of smaller fires, which had been burning throughout the summer, were fanned by strong winds into a massive conflagration. The firestorm spread rapidly, consuming vast tracts of forest and several small towns.

• Firefighting Efforts: The U.S. Forest Service, established only five years prior, was ill-equipped to handle a disaster of this magnitude. Approximately 10,000 firefighters, including soldiers, volunteers, and even prisoners, were deployed to combat the blaze. Despite their efforts, the fire proved uncontrollable.

• Casualties and Damage: The fire claimed the lives of 87 people, including 78 firefighters. It destroyed numerous towns and settlements, leaving thousands homeless. The towns of Wallace, Idaho, and Avery, Idaho, were particularly hard hit.

Aftermath and Consequences

• Impact on Forest Policy: The Great Fire of 1910 had a profound impact on U.S. forest policy. It underscored the need for a more organized and well-funded approach to wildfire management. The event led to increased funding for the U.S. Forest Service and the development of more systematic fire suppression strategies.

• Legacy: The fire highlighted the heroism of firefighters and the challenges of managing natural resources. It also sparked a debate about the role of fire in forest ecosystems, leading to a policy of aggressive fire suppression that would dominate U.S. forest management for much of the 20th century.

Historical Significance

The Great Fire of 1910 remains a pivotal moment in the history of U.S. forestry and wildfire management. It demonstrated the destructive potential of wildfires and the necessity for effective forest management practices. The lessons learned from the Big Burn continue to influence fire management policies and practices today.