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Tag Archives: Disasters
“The Patch”: An Early Irish Neighborhood
In March, we see the glimmers of spring with new plant growth and holidays that allow us to reflect on the past as well as the future. Today is one such holiday that is as intertwined with American culture as … Continue reading
Posted in Local History
Tagged Celtic Heritage Trail, Disasters, East Davenport, Fires, Irish Americans, Local History, neighborhoods, The Patch
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This Day In History: Roller coaster crash at Forest (Schuetzen) Park
On Sunday, June 17th, 1923, a near record crowd of 3,640 people attended the annual basket picnic of the Davenport lodge No. 28, Loyal Order of Moose at Forest Park. Attendees enjoyed a program of games and outdoor sports, including … Continue reading
Posted in Local History
Tagged Accidents, amusement park, Disasters, Forest Park, roller coaster, Schuetzen Park
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The St. Elizabeth’s Tragedy: Part II of II
Please click here to read Part I. During the cold dark morning hours of January 7, 1950, St. Elizabeth’s, part of the Mercy Hospital Complex, had caught fire, placing 63 patients and 2 staff members in danger.* Before fire fighters and … Continue reading
The St. Elizabeth’s Tragedy: Part I of II
In the early morning hours of January 7, 1950, as frigid winter temperatures were made harsher by a strong wind, Mercy Hospital night orderly Murray Francis noted an eerie light glowing outside. Shortly after 2:00 a.m., he activated an alarm. … Continue reading
Posted in Local History
Tagged Anna Neal, Disasters, Fire, Mercy Hospital, Psychiatric Hospital, Sisters of Mercy, St. Elizabeth's
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Living Memory History: The Robin Hood Flour Mill Explosion
History is full of landmark events—world, national, local— which bring people together to compare notes: Did you see it? Did you hear it? What were you doing? Were you there? Those in downtown Davenport experienced their own landmark event around … Continue reading
Posted in Local History
Tagged Disasters, Fires, International Multifoods, Local History
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