1940: Natchez Club Fire Kills 226
A devastating fire at the Rhythm Club in Natchez, Mississippi, killed at least 226 people and critically injured about 40 others. Nearly 500 people were inside the Black-owned dance hall when decorative Spanish moss on the walls and ceiling caught fire. The flames spread rapidly, destroying the wooden building in about 15 minutes.
Because the club had only one exit, many people were trapped inside. Numerous victims were burned beyond recognition, making identification difficult.
The tragedy claimed the lives of many prominent members of Natchez’s Black community, including professionals and civic leaders. In the aftermath, survivors and residents called for stronger building safety rules, especially requirements for multiple exits in public gathering places. One survivor recalled escaping through the club’s only doorway moments before the building was engulfed in flames.
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