Ship Ablaze

"Ship Ablaze" explores the tragic 1904 fire aboard the General Slocum, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 passengers in New York City’s deadliest disaster prior to September 11, 2001. Drawing on firsthand accounts, historian Edward T. O'Donnell examines the causes, the city’s response, and why this devastating event has remained relatively obscure compared to other historic tragedies. The book vividly captures the horror and heroism of those involved, shedding light on a significant yet overlooked chapter in American history.