John Blair and the Great Hinckley Fire

The Great Hinckley Fire is one of the biggest disasters in Minnesota history. This intermediate-level picture book tells the story of John Blair, a porter for the St. Paul and Duluth Railway, onboard the Limited Train #4 when it left Duluth on September 1, 1894 for a five hour run to St. Paul. Before reaching Hinckley, the train was engulfed in a firestorm. Blair helped to save approximately 300 people by getting them into a swamp along the tracks. Written by Josephine Nobisso, illustrated by Ted Rose, this is a gripping story, and can be used to support Minnesota history or notable African American units.