University of Virginia Library

Bucket Brigade Employed

Mr. Jefferson's creation was
architecturally untouched until
the Great Fire.

Mr. Nichols described events
surrounding the Great Fire.
The Richmond Fire Brigade
was summoned as soon as the
fire was discovered. It traveled
at top speed–20 m.p.h.–but
was never able to assist in
extinguishing the fire.

By the time is arrived in
Gordonsville, word was sent
that the fire was under control.
By then students had formed
chains to relay buckets of
water to douse the buildings.

The Rotunda originally
housed classes in drawing and
science, religious services, and
the library.