Today’s moment of Nebraska history takes us to a devastating fire that destroyed Omaha’s Millard Hotel on the night of February 8, 1933. Seven firemen lost their lives in this massive blaze and seventeen more were injured. They battled the fire for hours in temperatures that reached -15 degrees Fahrenheit. The four-story historic structure located on the northeast corner of 13th and Douglas Streets was a complete lost estimated at $250,000. All 45 guests made it to safety. The brave firemen who lost their lives were Captains Thomas Shande and Edward Smith, Firemen George Brandt, Frank Kane, Louis Morocco, John Cogan and Inspector Clarence Urban. Rest in peace.
