Susquehanna FootprintsStories from the Susquehanna Valley

The “Great Conflagration” Destroyed a Large Section of Williamsport on August 20, 1871

Fire that began in a stable in the city of Williamsport on the night of August 20, 1871, destroyed 45 buildings, near East Third and Mulberry streets, then one of Williamsport’s principal residential and business districts. Among the buildings destroyed was the Russell Inn, a log cabin building as seen in the photo.

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The Canal Boat Caper

A Susquehanna Valley Farmer learned quickly the grass isn't always greener, or in this case, the river wasn't always smoother from a canal boat.

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August 18, 2026 · Terry Diener