In western Pennsylvania, an early morning fire destroys much of the center of the town of Franklin

A few hours before dawn, the New York Hotel in Franklin, Pennsylvania took fire. A stiff breeze spread the blaze quickly to most of the central area of the Venango County seat and before the fire was put out dozens of businesses, including the town's theater, newspaper offices, and post office, had suffered devastating losses. Losses of almost a quarter of a million dollars were reported but no serious injuries.  (By John Osborne)