Francis Graham

Captain

Department: Ottawa Fire Department
Station: 3
Location: Ottawa, ON
Employment: Career (Full Time)
Date of Death: July 25, 1877
Date of Birth: June 2, 1840
Age at Death: 37
Memorial Panel: 14

Story

On June 24, 1877 a fire broke out in the lumberyard of the E. B. Eddy Mill, which is still located across the river from Ottawa in Hull. A bucket brigade was formed at first, but the fire quickly grew to enormous proportions far beyond their capabilities.

Thousands of Ottawa citizens watched the huge fire from the suspension bridge and Parliament Hill. Some went across to help at the fire scene including members of the Ottawa Fire Department. The firefighters fought gallantly, and although a strong wind threatened to spread the fire into the city, the blaze was under control and confined to a 10-acre section around 10 p.m.

Firefighters, including Captain Graham, remained on the scene all night extinguishing hot spots before returning to their stations. The next day Captain Graham was confined to bed suffering from smoke inhalation. His condition slowly deteriorated until he passed away at 11:40 p.m. on Wednesday July 25, 1877.