Diamond Knitting Mill Fire
Williamstown, PA
November 7, 1902
The Diamond Knitting Mill in Williamstown was totally destroyed by a fire which started around 12:30 a.m. on November 7, 1902. The cause of the fire is unknown. It started in an area of the mill remote from the boilers. Because of the highly inflammable material in the mill, the fire was soon out of control. The firemen who responded were handicapped by a short water supply. The mill, which made ladies' underwear, was established by John Hughes and John Hoffman. Hughes died in 1896 and a few years later Hoffman became the sole owner. Around the year 1900, W.S. Shelton was admitted to the firm and in 1901 it was incorporated as the Diamond Knitting and Manufacturing Company. |
