Preble Box Toe Company explosion

The Preble Box Toe Company explosion occurred on November 8, 1928, in Lynn, Massachusetts, resulting in 20 deaths (11 immediately from the blast and fires, and 9 later from injuries) and injuring 50 people. The factory, built in 1921 using concrete, reinforced steel, and a cement floor, was initially thought to be fireproof but was located in a densely residential area without proper zoning separation. The explosion, which occurred around 7:40 am, involved multiple blasts that sent flames and debris across the area, damaging nearby homes. A twelve-year-old boy raised the first alarm after being boosted up by a friend. Firefighters from Lynn and surrounding towns responded, but the severity of the fire overwhelmed local resources. The closest home to the factory, on Groveland Street, belonged to the Blaney family. Lillian Blaney and five of her children died in the explosion; two others survived but were severely injured. The family's eldest daughter, Vivian, later died in the hospital. Over 500 people attended their funeral. The cause of the explosion was traced to volatile chemicals used in the factory, including pyroxylin, acetic ether, and guncotton, which created explosive vapors. Despite warnings, the company had stored large quantities of these materials without proper safety measures. The state fire marshal and chemist highlighted the dangers of such operations near residential areas. A grand jury investigation concluded that the company's negligence contributed to the disaster and recommended improvements to the Lynn Fire Department. However, no charges were filed against individuals, and the company's insurer ...