This monument is for the victims of one of the most tragic events in the history of the city of Buffalo. The M.H. Birge & Sons factory occupied a large five story brick building at the corner of Indiana and Perry Streets. The business manufactured wallpapers and had grown to an operation that employed about 135 men and boys. On the night of Friday, December 17, 1880, a printing machine on the third floor of the factory caught fire after experiencing a paper jam. Those on the lower floors were able to escape, but those on the top floors had few options. Ten perished in the blaze, including eight children ranging in age from 12 - 17 years old.
This monument is for the victims of one of the most tragic events in the history of the city of Buffalo. The M.H. Birge & Sons factory occupied a large five story brick building at the corner of Indiana and Perry Streets. The business manufactured wallpapers and had grown to an operation that employed about 135 men and boys. On the night of Friday, December 17, 1880, a printing machine on the third floor of the factory caught fire after experiencing a paper jam. Those on the lower floors were able to escape, but those on the top floors had few options. Ten perished in the blaze, including eight children ranging in age from 12 - 17 years old.
Inscription
Erected by M.H. Birge & Sons, in grateful memory of the FAITHFUL EMPLOYEES, who, in the performance of HONEST LABOR, fell victims to the fire which destroyed their factory, December 17, 1880.
Gravesite Details
The parishioners of St. Joseph's Cathedral in Buffalo provided for the original burial plot. The monument was erected on Saturday, May 19, 1883 by the M.H. Birge & Sons company.
Family Members
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