Effingham IL Hospital Fire Disaster Death For Sale

Offered is an original5-page feature from the April 18, 1949 issue of LIFE magazine documenting the heartbreaking aftermath of the St. Anthony's Hospital fire in Effingham, Illinois.

The feature, titled "Sorrow in the 'Heart of the U.S.'", captures the grief of a community following the devastating April 4, 1949 fire that claimed 77 lives, including many infants and children. LIFE's photographers and writers present an unforgettable visual record of one of America's worst hospital disasters.

The feature includes:

• Emotional photographs of grieving families and townspeople
• Funeral services and memorial gatherings
• The story of Fern Riley, hailed as a heroine for her courageous efforts during the fire
• The Brummer family and other victims of the tragedy
• Images of survivors, rescue efforts, and the destroyed hospital
• Outstanding documentary photography that made LIFE magazine famous

A remarkable piece of postwar American history and an important collectible for those interested in:

• Illinois history
• Medical history
• Fire and disaster history
• Americana
• LIFE magazine
• Historic photojournalism

A PERSONAL NOTE: These LIFE magazines were saved by my father, a World War II veteran who rose to the rank of First Sergeant. He entered the U.S. Army on June 27, 1942, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and served with Company G, 13th Quartermaster Regiment (Battalion), and the 1744th Ordnance Group. His wartime service took him to North Africa and southern Italy before he returned home and was discharged in 1945.

More than 80 years later, I am offering selected articles and advertisements from the LIFE magazines he preserved. In his memory and in recognition of those who served, proceeds from these sales will be donated to Fisher House Foundation, which provides support and lodging for military and veteran families while their loved ones receive medical care. The donation will be sent after reaching $100 in sales.