Great Molasses Flood Plaque was added to Your Favorites!
Boston, Massachusetts
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In 1919, a massive storage tank burst, releasing over 2 million gallons of molasses into the North End, causing a wave that reached speeds of 35 mph and resulted in 21 fatalities.
The disaster led to stricter building codes and regulations in Boston to prevent similar industrial accidents in the future.
The incident resulted in a lengthy court case, which concluded with the company responsible paying out settlements totaling around $628,000 (equivalent to over $9 million today).
The cleanup process took weeks, with the sticky substance being washed into the harbor, and the scent of molasses lingering in the area for decades.
The molasses was intended for the production of industrial alcohol, which was used in munitions manufacturing during World War I.
The flood caused significant property damage, displacing residents and disrupting local businesses, some of which never recovered.
The disaster occurred on an unusually warm January day, which may have contributed to the increased pressure inside the poorly constructed tank.
A plaque commemorating the event is located at the site, serving as a reminder of the tragic and unusual disaster.
