Startling Spectacle.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 25, 30 January 1914, Page 5

Startling Spectacle.

DRAPERY Fißa IN SYDNEY.

THE DAMAGE OF AN HOUR.

[By Electric Telegraph—Copyright]

[United Press Association.] (Received 9.50 a.m.)

Sydney, January 30

Snow’s big drapery emporium in Pitt Street was gutted. The fire made a startling spectacle and was watched hy 50,000 people.

The outbreak was discovered at 10.15, and within an hour, in spite of the efforts and combined force of the local brigades, only blackened walls mariced where once stood one of the busiest hives of industry in the city, Ainsworth’s drapery establishment was seriously threatened, but the brigades managed to confine the tire to the one building. Pieces of burning material were carried as far as Horden’s, and a constant watch had to he kept on the big premises in the vicinity.

The origin of the fire is believed to have been due to an explosion on the

top floor

The building occupied half an acre, and was owned hy the Trustees of the estate of the late Samuel Hordern, and was used hy Mr Sidney Snow.

The damage is estimated a £45,000. The building was insured for £25,000.