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Town hall fire, Truro, Cornwall. November 1914
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Town hall fire, Truro, Cornwall. November 1914
A view of the city hall roof and clock turret destroyed in the fire of 1914. A note with the glass plate negative states On the evening of November the 11th 1914 the Town council met in the Council Chamber where the caretaker had lit fires for their comfort. When he left in 1846 and that they were insured for 3000 at the time of the fire. An anonymous donor presented a new chiming clock to the town to replace the old Dampier clock lost in the fire
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TRURI : TRUfir.28r
Media ID 19056581
© Arthur William Jordan
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Town Hall Fire, Truro: A Glimpse into the Devastation of 1914". This print captures a haunting scene from Truro's history - the aftermath of the destructive Town Hall fire that ravaged Cornwall in November 1914. The image showcases the once majestic city hall roof and clock turret, now reduced to charred ruins by the merciless flames. According to a note accompanying this glass plate negative, tragedy struck on an evening when the Town Council convened in their chamber. Seeking comfort, they relied on fires lit by their caretaker. However, fate had other plans as these very fires became catalysts for destruction. It is revealed that in 1846, when the caretaker left his post unattended momentarily, disaster struck. Despite being insured for £3000 at that time (a considerable sum back then), no amount of money could restore what was lost. Yet amidst despair emerged a glimmer of hope as an anonymous donor stepped forward with a generous gift - a new chiming clock to replace the beloved Dampier clock forever lost in those fiery depths. This poignant photograph serves as both a reminder of past misfortune and resilience within adversity. It stands testament to Truro's ability to rise from its ashes and rebuild itself anew – preserving its heritage while embracing change. Today, this tragic event remains etched in our collective memory; reminding us not only of loss but also inspiring gratitude for acts of kindness that can heal even the deepest wounds inflicted upon our cherished communities.
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