#ThisIsThePlace: History behind ‘Great Fire’ of 1934

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC (WWAY) — January 28, 1934 was a day for the history books. On that day, more than 100 cottages were destroyed due to the great fire of Wrightsville Beach.

It was rumored that a cigarette lit during a card game started the fire, but others believe it was caused by an electric iron.

Since there was no bridge to get cars to the beach, firefighters struggled to get to the island in time to save homes.

With strong winds and inadequate protection, the fire easily spread from one building to the next.

The fire leveled 103 buildings, including the Oceanic Hotel, in less than three hours.