The Great Molasses Flood of 1919: A Sticky Tragedy in Boston's North End

On January 15, 1919, Boston's North End experienced an unprecedented disaster now known as the Great Molasses Flood.

 

At approximately 12:30 p.m., a massive storage tank owned by the United States Industrial Alcohol Company ruptured, releasing a torrent of 2.3 million gallons of molasses.

 

The 50-foot-tall tank, situated on Commercial Street, had been a looming presence in the neighborhood.

 

Residents had long noted its structural issues, including visible leaks that the company attempted to conceal by painting the tank brown.

 

When the tank burst, it unleashed a 15-foot-high wave of molasses moving at 35 miles per hour.

 

The deluge obliterated buildings, swept away vehicles, and even knocked a train off its tracks.

 

In the aftermath, 21 people lost their lives, and 150 others sustained injuries.

 

The cleanup was arduous, with the sweet scent of molasses lingering in the area for weeks.

 

In the years following the disaster, the North End underwent significant changes.

 

The area, once heavily industrial, began transitioning into a residential and commercial hub.

 

Today, the site of the tragedy is home to Langone Park, a recreational area featuring a Little League Baseball field and bocce courts.

 

A small plaque at the park's entrance commemorates the victims and serves as a somber reminder of the events that unfolded over a century ago.

 

In recent years, efforts have been made to further honor the memory of those affected.

 

In 2015, a North End resident proposed a public art installation to mark the 96th anniversary of the flood.

 

Although the project did not come to fruition, it sparked renewed interest in the disaster's history.

 

More recently, in April 2025, the North End Historical Society announced plans to establish a heritage center at 3 Prince Street.

 

This center aims to feature exhibits on notable events, including the Great Molasses Flood, ensuring that the stories of resilience and community response are preserved for future generations.

 

The Great Molasses Flood remains a poignant chapter in Boston's history.

 

It serves as a testament to the city's resilience and the importance of community in the face of unforeseen tragedies.

 

As the North End continues to evolve, the memory of that fateful day in 1919 endures, reminding residents and visitors alike of the neighborhood's rich and complex past.