Books
Phase
San Francisco Earthquake and Fire
18–21 April 1906
On 18 April 1906, a major earthquake ruptured the San Andreas Fault and severely damaged San Francisco. Broken water mains hindered firefighting as fires spread through densely built districts.
Military authorities and city officials used dynamite in attempts to create firebreaks, sometimes worsening destruction. Residents fled to parks, military land and temporary camps while rebuilding plans quickly became contests over property, labour and the future of the city.
