Fire Buffs promote the general welfare of the fire and rescue service and protect its heritage and history. Famous Fire Buffs through the years include Edward VII, who maintained a kit at a London fire station.

February 26, 2008

RUM QUAY FIRE - 1933


Photos: Port Cities London
On April 21, 1933, liquor-charged fire swept the Rum Quay at West India Docks and burned for four days. A main shed and vault were destroyed along with 6,500 puncheons - 3.1 million litres - of rum. The May 1, 1933 edition of Time Magazine said: ``Concussions rocked the warehouse and burning rum ran ... Blue flame fingered halfway across the Thames. London's brass-hatted firemen came by fireboat and engine. As the rum burnt, its evaporated alcohol made the firemen tipsy.'
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