The topic of Episode 119 of MARS MESSINA PRESENTS is the conflagration that - per the laws of physics and chemistry - was a FIRE-NADO, known as The Great Chicago Fire. The fire began on the evening of October 8 and ended around midnight, October 10, of 1871. We will address all of the contributing factors that resulted in the firestorm that devastated Chicago, and we will unveil the mystery behind Mrs. O'Leary and her cow (no, they didn't start the fire). It's important to know how and why that rumor began.

BEDTIME STORIES FROM THE ACOUSTIC BOOKSHELF will end the show with two readings - the first is the lyrics to the Chicago folk song, "Hot Time In the Old Town Tonight", and the second is a statement made to the press by Mrs. O'Leary's physician.

To send correspondence, email [email protected]

To donate to this podcast, Venmo @mdm773. Thank you.