The Great Fire of May 10, 1862

Due to popular demand, we’re offering another installment of the Walking Tour: The Air Was Full of Smoke and Cinders. Join us as we commemorate the anniversary of this grave event.

This popular tour tells the story of the Great Fire in real time through the voices of those who witnessed it firsthand. The tour explores the many blocks affected by this disastrous fire that started when a locomotive’s sparks ignited a fire on the wooden covered Green Island bridge, quickly turning it into a firestorm that destroyed acres of the city, over 500 buildings and a number of lives before it was contained.

Walking Tours meet in front of the Arts Center at 265 River Street.

Before registering, please note the following:

• Ticket purchase is required beforehand.

• Due to COVID-19 policies and procedures as set forth by New York State, HCM will only accommodate up to ten people on each tour.

• The Hart Cluett Museum provides all walking tour participants with headsets, allowing each visitor to listen to the tour guide’s commentary while also ensuring everyone’s safety in accordance with NYS regulations regarding COVID-19. Please note that while you may use or bring your own earpieces/earbuds, single use ear pieces will also be provided by the Hart Cluett Museum at time of tour.