Archive · 15 Jan 2026
Boston Molasses Flood Kills 21 in 1919
A long time ago, in 1919, a big tank in Boston holding lots of molasses suddenly burst.
This created a huge wave of sticky, sweet molasses that moved very fast and was very tall.
The wave hurt many people and animals, and even destroyed buildings and cars.
The company that owned the tank was found responsible because they didn't take care of it properly.
The molasses was so sticky that it was hard to clean up, but people worked together to help those who were hurt.
A molasses tank burst in Boston's North End on January 15, 1919, killing 21 and injuring 150.
The wave of molasses was 25 feet high and moved at 56 kilometers per hour.
The tank had leaks and was poorly maintained, with thin walls and weak metal.
Rescue teams, including police and Red Cross volunteers, helped those affected.
The Purity Distilling Company was found legally liable for the disaster.
- Who
- Residents, laborers, and drivers in Boston's North End
- What
- A molasses tank burst, causing a deadly flood
- When
- January 15, 1919
- Where
- Boston's North End, Commercial Street
- Why
- The tank was poorly constructed and inadequately maintained
- Date
- January 15, 1919
- Location
- Boston's North End, Commercial Street
- Casualties
- 21 dead, 150 injured
- Molasses Volume
- 2.3 million US gallons
- Wave Height
- 25 feet
- Wave Speed
- 56 kilometers per hour
- Responsible Company
- Purity Distilling Company
- Tank Construction Year
- 1915