← Evidence Library

Other

Hartford circus fire

Wikipedia

Where this source supports the record

Each entry separates the article’s editorial relevance note from its exact, section-level claims. A bibliography link without a direct claim is labeled plainly.

  1. Fires · 6 July 1944

    The Hartford Circus Fire

    Ringling Brothers circus lot on Barbour Street · United States

    Open article references →
    Why editors use it here

    Referenced overview of tent conditions, rapid fire spread, casualties, investigation, and memorial.

    1. Quick read

      During an afternoon Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey performance on 6 July 1944, fire raced across the waterproofed canvas big top in Hartford.

      Reviewed 26 July 2026
    2. Trigger and conditions

      A flame appeared on the southwest sidewall during the Great Wallendas' act.

      Reviewed 26 July 2026
    3. Uncertainty

      The official toll is commonly 168, but some research supports 167 because of duplicate or disputed identification.

      Reviewed 26 July 2026
    4. Why it matters

      Temporary structures can gather permanent-building crowds without equivalent safeguards.

      Reviewed 26 July 2026