The FDNY commemorates the 114th anniversary of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire

March 25, 2025

The FDNY marked the 114th anniversary of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire—one of the deadliest fires in New York City's history—with a commemoration on March 25, 2025, in Manhattan. 

The 1911 fire claimed the lives of 146 people—mostly women—who were trapped by locked exits, unsafe fire escapes and no sprinklers. With more than 700 people inside the building, the fire spread rapidly, leaving many with no way to escape.

"It was one of the deadliest fires in city history and sparked a national conversation about safer working conditions," FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said.

The fire became a turning point in labor and fire safety reform, leading to sweeping changes in workplace safety laws and fire prevention measures. The FDNY began teaching fire safety and conducted fire drills in factories across all five boroughs. 

Today, the Department remains committed to ensuring that lessons learned from the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire continue to shape fire prevention and protect all New Yorkers.

The FDNY joined the New York City Central Labor Council for the annual commemoration.