, Minnesota, USA
1918 - October 12 – Cloquet Fire: The city of Cloquet, Minnesota, and nearby areas are destroyed in a fire, killing 453.

The Cloquet Fire of 1918 was a devastating wildfire that swept through the city of Cloquet, Minnesota, and its surrounding areas on October 12th, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming the lives of 453 people. The fire was part of a larger series of fires that ravaged the region during a particularly dry and windy period, which contributed to the fire's rapid spread and intensity. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown, but it is believed to have started in a railway yard.

The fire quickly engulfed the town, destroying thousands of homes, businesses, and other structures in its path. Residents were caught off guard by the speed and ferocity of the flames, leading to a chaotic evacuation effort. Despite the heroic efforts of firefighters and volunteers, the fire was ultimately too powerful to be contained, leaving a lasting impact on the community and its residents. The Cloquet Fire of 1918 remains one of the deadliest wildfires in Minnesota's history.

October 12, 1918

Visit Minnesota, USA
Discover the people who lived there, the places they visited and the stories they shared.