Hartford Circus Fire: Following Collapse of the Tent

Images(2)

Hartford Circus Fire: Following Collapse of the Tent

Original OwnerOriginally owned by Helen Tobacco American, died 1993

PhotographerPhotographed by Unknown

DateJuly 6, 1944

MediumPhotography; gelatin silver print on paper

ClassificationsGraphics

Credit LineGift of Patricia A. Sieber

DescriptionFlames and smoke fill the sky. Flaming canvas appears to be lying on bleachers at the left. Canvas at the right may be part of an entrance marquee. Spectators in the foreground include two men in army uniforms. Circus wagon #201 is next to the burning tent.

Object number2005.173.5

MarkingsOn verso of every photograph except 2005.173.10, "B 01" is stamped in black ink at lower right; on 2005.173.10, the stamp is at upper left.InscribedOn verso of each photograph, accession number in pencil at lower right.NotesArtist Note: According to a letter written by the donor, these pictures of the Hartford Circus Fire were taken by a professional photographer. He only brought a small camera that day, because it was only a circus, not an event that warranted a large, bulky camera. The donor's aunt, who owned these photographs from 1944 until her death in 1993, was dating the man, but the donor does not know his name. (Hudson 2/2/2006)

Subject Terms