This month marks the 190th anniversary of one of the most devastating disasters in New York City history — The Great Fire of 1835.

This massive fire, among the worst in American history in terms of its economic impact, devastated the city during one freezing December evening, destroying hundreds of shops and warehouses and changing the face of Manhattan forever.

It also underscored the city’s need for a functioning water system and a permanent fire department.

So why were there so many people drinking champagne in the street? And how did the son of Alexander Hamilton save the day?

PLUS We give you a another reason to check out the Stone Street Historic District

To mark this special anniversary, we have newly remastered and edited our classic Bowery Boys podcast on this subject which was originally released on March 13, 2009

This episode was produced by Kieran Gannon

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