In the early hours of yesterday morning, the Limerick Fire Brigade faced a daunting task as they battled one of the most intense fires the city has witnessed in many years. At approximately midnight, Constable McNamara observed smoke and flames emanating from the windows of the well-known jobbing printing firm, Messrs. Ash and Sons, located on Thomas Street. Swiftly reacting to the alarming scene, McNamara promptly notified the Limerick Fire Brigade, setting into motion a dramatic firefighting operation.
Beneath the printing works, an establishment owned by Mrs. O’Neill, which also served as her residence, heightened the gravity of the situation. Unfortunately, Mrs. O’Neill was unwell at the time and received a considerable shock upon discovering the unfolding disaster. The commotion caused by the blaze roused the neighbourhood, prompting concerned residents from adjacent premises, including a drapery establishment, to spill into the streets.
The Limerick Fire Brigade worked tirelessly, employing three hoses from hydrants and later introducing two additional lines from a steam-powered fire engine. Despite the concerted efforts, the torrents of water seemed to have limited impact on quelling the relentless flames. Acting on behalf of the Mayor, Aid. O’Brien took charge of the situation, requisitioning the assistance of the military to augment the firefighting efforts.
The fire stubbornly refused to abate, raising fears at one point that neighbouring houses on William Street, rumoured to house a quantity of powder, might succumb to the conflagration. Fortunately, such a catastrophic outcome was averted, and the blaze spared the adjacent structures.
Among the notable incidents during the firefighting operation were the harrowing experiences of two firefighters, Murphy and Matheson. Working on the upper storey of Messrs. Fitt’s auction rooms, the roof collapsed, casting doubt on their chances of survival. Their fortunate escape from this perilous situation was met with collective relief from onlookers, who commended the men’s prudence, cool courage, and self-possession in the face of imminent danger.
The fire ravaged through Messrs. Fitt’s furniture mart and Messrs. Ashe’s printing premises, situated below Mrs. O’Neill’s establishment. Preliminary estimates place the damage at £3,000, partially covered by insurance. Unfortunately, it is reported that Mrs. O’Neill did not have insurance for her premises, prompting a wave of sympathy for her predicament.
Mr William B. Fitt, the auctioneer, was an early responder at the scene, actively participating in firefighting efforts. District-Inspector White led the police contingent, providing valuable support during the crisis. Affected parties are urged to liaise promptly with the Hibernian Fire and General Insurance Co., Ltd., headquartered at 9 Dame St., Dublin, for expeditious settlements. As the city grapples with the aftermath of this destructive blaze, questions arise about fire safety measures and the need for enhanced preparedness to avert such calamities in the future.
Irish Independent – Saturday 25 June 1910
