Boston Molasses Disaster
The Boston Molasses Disaster, also known as the Great Molasses Flood, was a deadly industrial disaster in Boston’s North End on January 15, 1919.
The Boston Molasses Disaster, also known as the Great Molasses Flood, was a deadly industrial disaster in Boston’s North End on January 15, 1919. A large storage tank ruptured and released a wave of molasses that killed 21 people and injured about 150 others.
Event
On January 15, 1919, a molasses storage tank at Commercial Street in Boston ruptured, releasing a large wave of molasses into the surrounding neighborhood. The flood damaged buildings, rail infrastructure, and streets in the North End.
Casualties and damage
The disaster killed 21 people and injured about 150 more. Sources also describe severe property damage, including destruction of buildings and impacts extending into Boston Harbor.
Cause and legal aftermath
Investigations and later court proceedings concluded that the tank had been poorly built and maintained. In 1925, the company was found liable in a landmark negligence case involving many plaintiffs.
Historical significance
The flood became a lasting part of Boston history and is often cited in discussions of industrial regulation and public safety. It also remains notable for the unusual nature of the disaster.
Key facts
- A large tank holding roughly 2.3 million U.S. gallons of molasses burst in Boston’s North End.
- The released molasses flowed through streets at high speed and caused extensive destruction.
- Twenty-one people died and about 150 were injured.
- The disaster led to a long negligence lawsuit and a finding that the company was liable for the tank’s flawed construction.
- The event is widely remembered as one of Boston’s best-known historical disasters.
The disaster is often referenced in North American industrial-safety history and legal discussions, including by Canadian readers interested in major urban disasters and negligence law.
Frequently asked questions
What was the Boston Molasses Disaster?
How many people died in the molasses flood?
How many people were injured?
What caused the disaster?
Where did the disaster happen?
Was anyone held legally responsible?
References
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Great-Molasses-FloodSupports: Date, location, fatalities, and overall description of the disaster
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Molasses_FloodSupports: Tank size, location, estimated speed, deaths, injuries, and facility details
- City of Boston — https://www.boston.gov/news/100-years-ago-today-molasses-crashes-through-bostons-north-endSupports: Regulatory and historical significance
- Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth — https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/state-house-tours/did-you-know/Molasses-Flood.htmSupports: Date, deaths, injuries, and court outcome
- HISTORY — https://www.history.com/articles/the-great-molasses-flood-of-1919Supports: Tank ownership, construction context, and background
- HISTORY — https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/january-15/molasses-floods-boston-streetsSupports: Date, deaths, and company involvement
- History Today — https://www.historytoday.com/archive/sticky-tragedy-boston-molasses-disasterSupports: Legal aftermath and historical significance