Nine names etched in granite stand as a stark reminder here at the Vendome Firefighters’ Memorial. This memorial commemorates the lives lost in one of the Boston Fire Department’s greatest tragedies. We are here to remember the Vendome Hotel fire.
Let’s step back to June 17 1972 Father’s Day. The Hotel Vendome a luxury establishment built in 1871 was undergoing renovations. A fire broke out between the third and fourth floors around 2:30 p.m. Sixteen engine companies and five ladder companies responded. Firefighters thought they had contained the blaze by 4:30 p.m.
Tragedy struck around 5:30 p.m. Without warning the southeast corner of the building collapsed. Twenty-five firefighters and a ladder truck were buried under debris. Nine firefighters died in the collapse. This remains the largest loss-of-life incident in the department’s history.
The Vendome Firefighters’ Memorial stands as a testament to their sacrifice. The memorial was not without controversy. The initial design faced rejection. SomeBack Bay residents deemed it tacky. Columnist Mike Barnicle criticized this elitism. Finally in 1995 the design was approved. Ground broke the following year.
The memorial features a curved granite base. A bronze sculpture rests on top. It depicts a firefighter’s helmet and jacket. The names of the fallen are inscribed on the granite. They serve as a constant reminder of the day’s events.
The fallen firefighters are Thomas W. Beckwith. He served with Engine 32. Joseph F. Boucher served with Engine 22. Lieutenant Thomas J. Carroll was also with Engine 32. Charles E. Dolan served with Ladder 13. Lieutenant John E. Hanbury Jr. was also with Ladder 13. John E. Jameson served with Engine 22. Richard B. Magee served with Engine 33. Paul J. Murphy was with Engine 32. Joseph P. Saniuk served with Ladder 13.
Thousands of firefighters came to Boston. They paid their respects to these nine men. Over 10000 people attended the funeral Mass. It was held at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross.
Improvements have been made to the memorial over the years. New LED lighting replaced the old system. The surrounding pavers and pathways were upgraded. Granite curbing now borders the monument. This matches other statues on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall.
Take a moment to reflect on the bravery and sacrifice. These firefighters gave their lives protecting our city. The Vendome Firefighters’ Memorial ensures their memory lives on. It reminds us of the risks firefighters face every day.