About

A slightly twisted and darker historical moment in Norfolk's history that is still told today is the Norfolk Fire. In 1775 - 1776, the British forces suffered a defeat at the hands of the Americans at Great Bridge, leaving the British no choice but to evacuate Norfolk. With the city up for grabs, continental forces immediately took control only to realize that holding Norfolk would be more of a vulnerability with its location along the Elizabeth River allowing British forces easy access to attack. In the end, it was decided that the best course of action was to abandon and destroy the city.

After the initial defeat, British forces didn't travel far, but stayed aboard ships adjacent to Norfolk's port. Naturally, tensions rose and as Lords and Colonels bargained for the trading of prisoners and troops continued their taunting and threats, words became action as British forces cannonaded the Norfolk waterfront. As buildings were brought down men snuck off their ships and into the city setting fire to buildings along the waterfront not already brought down by cannon fire. This allowed American troops the perfect cover to set fire to buildings further in the city, blaming the British, while truly accomplishing their original goal to abandon and destroy the city.

The fire spread and burned for three days destroying everything in its wake. What would have been seen as a tragedy was deemed a victory and American forces were quick to use the fire as propaganda, depicting the British as unprovoked, merciless attackers, ultimately unifying Americans in their goal to reach independence.