Re: The Great Fire of Gateshead and Newcastle on 6 th October 1854
Allan, the great fire actually caused great damage not only in Gateshead but Newcastle too. In Newcastle, 9 chares ( streets) were lost. The windows of Moot Hall were blown out and the replacement poor quality glass could only be got from Russia. The door of the keep was blown off and there were fatalities too. The most known one was Alexander Dobson, son of John Dobson the architect. He was identified by a signet ring on his right hand. I believe the fire started in a furniture warehouse which was near where the present swing bridge (1876) and high level bridge (1849)is now. A policeman raised the alarm.
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