John Blair and the Great Hinckley Fire
What’s inside...
No one who boarded the Limited No. 4 train on the morning of September 1, 1894, anticipated disaster down the tracks, but by three o’clock in the afternoon, the sky was as black as night and everyone knew something was wrong. Soon burning trees lined either side of the tracks, illuminating the smoky sky like gigantic torches. With fire ahead and fire behind, how would the passengers escape? Amid the flames of the most devastating firestorm in U.S. history, the train’s porter, John Wesley Blair, acted with courage and compassion throughout that terrible day. Here, finally, is the untold story of a hero whom history almost forgot. A brief mention of the Hinckley fire in a nature magazine inspired Joi Nobisso to find out more about this awesome event. After several years of research, she uncovered the tale of John Blair’s bravery and knew she had to tell his story.
Discussion points
How do you think John Blair felt during the Great Hinckley Fire? What emotions might he have experienced?
What are some ways John Blair helped others during the fire? Why do you think helping others is important in such situations?
Can you imagine what it was like in Hinckley during the fire? What would you have done if you were there?
What lessons can we learn from the bravery shown by the characters in the book?
How do you think the community changed after the fire? What can we do to support each other in times of crisis?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use vivid descriptions from the book to help your child visualize the scenes and understand the severity of the fire.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and relate it to their own experiences of helping others or facing challenges.
Discuss the importance of community and teamwork as showcased in the book, and ask your child for examples of similar collaborative efforts they’ve witnessed or been part of.
Highlight the resilience and courage of the characters, prompting your child to think about how they can demonstrate these qualities in their own life.
End your discussion by brainstorming ways your family can contribute to your community, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy in your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Bravery and heroism in the face of adversity
Explanation: John Blair showcases tremendous courage during the Great Hinckley Fire, facing daunting challenges to help save his community.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being courageous and helping others during difficult times, teaching them to take initiative and act selflessly when others are in need.
Example Lesson: The impact of natural disasters on communities
Explanation: The book details the devastating effects of the Great Hinckley Fire on the local community, highlighting both the immediate and long-term consequences.
Real-World Application: This story helps children understand the seriousness of natural disasters and the importance of community preparedness and support.
Example Lesson: Resilience and recovery after loss
Explanation: Despite the overwhelming destruction caused by the fire, the community works together to rebuild and recover.
Real-World Application: Children learn that recovery is possible after great loss and that it can often be achieved through community support and resilience.
Example Lesson: The importance of history and learning from past events
Explanation: The book provides historical insights into the Great Hinckley Fire, teaching children about significant historical events and their outcomes.
Real-World Application: Understanding historical events helps children develop a sense of empathy and a deeper understanding of how past events shape our present and future.