CHATTANOOGA, Tenn — As America approaches its 250th birthday, we are shining a spotlight on historic landmarks that honor local heroes. One of those landmarks sits just steps from the Hamilton County Courthouse.
Many people recognize the Fireman’s Fountain downtown, but fewer know the tragedy that brought it into existence.
“It shocked this community, because they realized how quickly doing good could turn into a tragedy,” said local historian Linda Moss Mines.
The date was June 9, 1887. The Chattanooga Fire Department responded by horse-drawn fire engine to a massive blaze at the corner of Market and Fourth streets. During the fire, an explosion and wall collapse killed two firefighters, Henry Iler and Matt Peak.
“They were young men,” Mines said. “I think that touches peoples’ hearts, the way it does today with first responders and veterans.”…